Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR117

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/3/25

Caption

A Concurrent Resolution establishing a delegation to represent the Commonwealth at the Amendment Convention pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States entitled the Article V Amendment Convention and limited to proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to grant State Legislatures authority to countermand and rescind any mandate issued by any Branch of the Federal Government or their agencies that encroach on states' rights and the personal liberties of their citizens.

Impact

The proposed amendment could significantly alter the balance of power between state and federal governments. If passed, it would empower state legislatures to nullify federal mandates, offering a mechanism for states to oppose and remove federal policies that they consider counterproductive or infringing on liberties. This could lead to a varied patchwork of laws across states, depending on each state's legislative priorities and philosophies regarding federal authority and citizens' rights. Such a shift may provoke legal challenges as the limits of state authority are tested.

Summary

SR117 is a Concurrent Resolution aimed at establishing a delegation to represent the Commonwealth at the Amendment Convention per Article V of the Constitution. The primary intent of the bill is to propose an amendment that grants state legislatures the authority to countermand and rescind any federal mandate deemed to encroach upon states' rights and the personal liberties of their citizens. This highlights a growing trend among certain states to assert greater autonomy from the federal government, particularly concerning regulatory and legislative matters that affect their governance.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding SR117 appears to be supportive among those advocating for states' rights, aligning with a broader political ideology that values local over federal control. Proponents see it as a necessary step to protect individual freedoms and resist overreach by the federal government. Conversely, critics may argue that granting such authority could destabilize federal initiatives aimed at maintaining national standards, potentially leading to conflicts over core issues such as healthcare, education, and civil rights. This divergence in views reflects deeper ideological divides fundamental to American governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential implications of allowing states to countermand federal mandates. Opponents could argue that this undermines federal authority and consistency across the nation, potentially leading to a chaotic legislative environment where states could choose which federal laws to follow. Furthermore, there are concerns about the interpretation of 'encroachment' on liberties, which may vary significantly among states and could be exploited for partisan purposes, effectively rendering federal regulations impotent based on selective enforcement across different states.