Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill HP1448

Introduced
3/6/24  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING SEPARATE APPLICATIONS TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES CALLING ARTICLE V CONVENTIONS TO CONSIDER REPRESENTATIONAL INTEGRITY AND PROPOSE AMENDMENTS ESTABLISHING TERM LIMITS FOR CONGRESS AND ADDRESSING CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

Impact

If passed, HP1448 would significantly change how representatives are elected at the federal level. By instituting term limits, the bill seeks to prevent career politicians from becoming entrenched in power, fostering a political environment where fresh ideas and perspectives can be brought into governance. Additionally, the focus on campaign finance reform aims to level the playing field in elections, reducing the potential for corruption and increasing transparency in political contributions. These changes would affect state laws as well by aligning with broader national movements to reform congressional practices.

Summary

HP1448 is a joint resolution from the Maine Legislature calling for a convention of the states under Article V of the United States Constitution. This resolution aims to propose amendments that would set term limits for both the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as address campaign finance reform. The proponents of this bill assert that establishing term limits would enhance representational integrity and reduce the influence of money in politics, thereby ensuring that elected officials remain accountable to their constituents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HP1448 appears to be mixed. Supporters of the resolution argue that it represents a necessary step toward restoring public trust in government by limiting the tenure of elected officials and reducing the influence of money in politics. Conversely, critics express concerns that such amendments could undermine the stability of governance, as they might remove experienced politicians who are better equipped to navigate complex legislative issues. The debate highlights a division within the legislature about the best approach to ensuring a representative democracy.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HP1448 include the method of achieving the proposed constitutional amendments. Some legislators worry that convening a convention could lead to unintended consequences, including the risk of a 'runaway convention' that may propose a broader range of amendments than initially intended. Moreover, while the resolution emphasizes a bipartisan approach, there are concerns about whether it will garner sufficient support across the political spectrum, given the contentious nature of campaign finance reform and term limits.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME SP0010

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING SEPARATE APPLICATIONS TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES CALLING ARTICLE V CONVENTIONS TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS ESTABLISHING TERM LIMITS FOR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND TERM LIMITS FOR JUSTICES OF THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT

ME SP0173

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPLICATION TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES CALLING AN ARTICLE V CONVENTION TO PROPOSE AN AMENDMENT ADDRESSING CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

ME SF3254

A joint resolution applying to Congress to call an Article V constitutional convention to propose an amendment addressing campaign finance reform

ME HJR5002

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.

ME H3008

Convention of the States

ME SC515

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

ME SC513

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

ME HC51

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

ME HR111

A Concurrent Resolution calling for a convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States to consider amendments that limit the number of terms that members of Congress may serve.

ME HJ00049

Resolution Rescinding Previous Applications Of The General Assembly That Called For An Article V Convention To Propose Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States And Directing Transmission Of Such Resolution To Congress For Printing In The Congressional Record.

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