Proposes constitutional amendment to establish State right to keep and bear arms.
Impact
If this amendment is adopted, it would add a layer of protection for firearms ownership at the state level, ensuring that any attempts to regulate or limit this right would be subject to strict scrutiny. It reinforces the notion that individual rights to possess firearms are fundamental, potentially impacting legislation and regulations related to gun control in New Jersey. Currently, while the New Jersey Constitution provides for the protection of life and liberty, it does not explicitly mention the right to own firearms, which the amendment aims to rectify.
Summary
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 16 proposes a constitutional amendment to the New Jersey Constitution to establish and protect the right of individuals to keep and bear arms. The resolution seeks to amend Article I, paragraph 1 of the New Jersey Constitution, explicitly including the right to keep and bear arms as a fundamental right that cannot be infringed upon. This proposed change would align the state constitution with the federal Second Amendment, which already provides individuals the right to own firearms and has been recognized by the Supreme Court as applicable to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment.
Contention
The proposal may ignite debates surrounding gun rights and regulations in New Jersey, reflecting ongoing national discussions about the balance between individual rights and public safety. Proponents of the amendment argue that it clarifies and solidifies individuals' rights to bear arms, while opponents may raise concerns about the implications for gun control measures and violence reduction strategies. The amendment will also be put to a public vote, further intensifying the discussions as constituents weigh the benefits and risks associated with expanding firearm rights within the state.
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.