applying for a convention of the states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States.
Impact
Should this resolution gain traction and result in a convention, its implications for state and federal governance could be significant. It would mean that New Hampshire, alongside other states, supports a fundamental change in how congressional service is structured. The anticipated amendment would aim to set a maximum number of terms for elected officials in Congress, thus potentially reshaping the landscape of federal elections and representation, which could also influence state laws regarding elections and office-holder qualifications.
Summary
HCR16 is a concurrent resolution from the New Hampshire legislature that seeks to apply for a convention of states under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The primary purpose of this resolution is to propose an amendment that would impose term limits on members of both the United States House of Representatives and the Senate. This reflects a growing sentiment among certain legislators that limiting the tenure of congressional representatives may enhance the democratic process and foster fresh perspectives within the federal government.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR16 can be characterized as moderately positive among its supporters, who believe that term limits may prevent the entrenchment of long-term incumbents in Congress. Proponents argue that such limits could not only rejuvenate the political system but also enhance accountability among elected officials. However, there are concerns from opposition voices that term limits might inadvertently restrict experienced lawmakers from serving, which could lead to a loss of institutional knowledge and effectiveness in governance.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding HCR16 include the debate over whether term limits would genuinely benefit the political system or if they could negatively impact legislative effectiveness. Critics argue that rather than enacting term limits, efforts should focus on voter engagement and the electoral process itself, suggesting that the solution lies in increased participation rather than the limitation of experienced legislators. The resolution positions itself amid broader discussions on electoral reform and the roles of term limits in promoting democratic accountability.
Rescinding House Concurrent Resolution No. 40 passed by the 2012 New Hampshire General Court asking that Congress call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution.
Allowing rental companies applying to register a rental fleet to choose New Hampshire as the base jurisdiction under the International Registration Plan (IRP).
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.