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, SCR35 would require a higher threshold for the passage of state tax legislation, thus making it more challenging for lawmakers to impose new taxes or tax increases. The introduction of the three-fifths majority requirement seeks to mitigate the frequency and ease with which tax policies can be altered, aligning the process more closely with fiscal conservatism. As a consequence, this could lead to more stable tax policies and enhanced fiscal accountability within the state's governance framework.
Summary
SCR35 is a concurrent resolution that proposes a significant amendment to the New Jersey State Constitution, specifically modifying the legislative process surrounding state tax bills. The resolution mandates that any bill or joint resolution that levies a new state tax or increases an existing tax must be passed by a three-fifths majority in both the Senate and General Assembly. This change aims to ensure a broader consensus for such critical fiscal legislation, theoretically protecting taxpayers from sudden tax increases without substantial legislative support.
Sentiment
The reception of SCR35 appears to be mixed among lawmakers and the public. Supporters argue that this amendment promotes responsible fiscal policy and offers greater protection to taxpayers by requiring substantial agreement among legislators before introducing or raising taxes. Opponents, however, express concerns that this higher requirement may hinder the government's ability to respond swiftly to economic needs, particularly in times of financial crisis when tax revenues may need to be adjusted rapidly to meet budgetary demands.
Contention
Notable points of contention surround the balance between fiscal responsibility and governmental flexibility. Proponents highlight that the three-fifths majority will prevent a small majority from unilaterally deciding on tax increases, thus safeguarding citizens' interests. Conversely, critics warn that such a requirement may lead to stalemates in budgetary discussions, potentially exacerbating funding shortfalls in essential services. The debate encapsulates broader discussions about governance, accountability, and the role of taxation in managing state finances.
Carry Over
Applies to Congress for Article V Convention of States to require balanced federal budget, impose term limits, and revise method of awarding electoral votes.
Applies to Congress for Article V Convention of States to require balanced federal budget, impose term limits, and revise method of awarding electoral votes.
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.