Applies to Congress for Article V Convention of States to require balanced federal budget, impose term limits, and revise method of awarding electoral votes.
Impact
If enacted, SCR81 could significantly change the functioning of the federal government by introducing amendments that require a balanced budget and term limits. This could lead to more responsible and accountable governance at the federal level, addressing growing concerns regarding national debt and the longevity of political incumbents in Congress and the judiciary. Moreover, the introduced adjustments in the electoral vote allocation could result in a system that more accurately reflects the votes of the American populace, similar to the methods currently implemented in Maine and Nebraska.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 81 (SCR81) proposes that the State of New Jersey apply to Congress for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution. This resolution is intended to propose amendments that would impose strict fiscal restraints on the federal government, specifically by mandating a balanced budget. Additionally, it aims to establish term limits for members of Congress and Supreme Court Justices, as well as to revise the method by which electoral votes are allocated during presidential elections.
Contention
The discussion surrounding SCR81 is likely to highlight various points of contention. Supporters argue that fiscal restraints and term limits are necessary for reducing governmental waste and enhancing democratic accountability. Conversely, critics may express concerns about the potential undermining of checks and balances, and the risks associated with altering long-standing electoral processes. Additionally, there may be debates on the feasibility and implications of convening a constitutional convention, especially regarding the scope and limitations of such an assembly's power.
Applies to Congress for Article V Convention of States to require balanced federal budget, impose term limits, and revise method of awarding electoral votes.
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION calling on the United States Congress to submit to the states for ratification a balanced budget amendment to the United States Constitution and making a formal application to Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call a convention for the sole purpose of proposing for ratification an amendment to the United States Constitution which requires a balanced federal budget.
An Act to Change the State's Method of Allocating Electoral Votes from a Congressional District Method to a Winner-take-all Method Contingent on the State of Nebraska Changing its Method of Allocating Electoral Votes
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.