To amend section 18 of article I of the constitution; Relating to: the freedom to gather in places of worship during a state of emergency (second consideration).
Impact
Should AJR10 be ratified, it would significantly amend the existing Article I, Section 18 of the state constitution, thereby restricting governmental authority over religious gatherings during emergencies. Proponents argue that this change is crucial for safeguarding constitutional rights, ensuring that faith communities are empowered during crises rather than restricted. The amendment is subject to second consideration by the 2025 legislature, with the aim of placing it on the ballot for voter ratification in November 2026, indicating a direct appeal to the electorate on matters of religious liberty and state governance.
Summary
AJR10 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at protecting the freedom to gather in places of worship during a state of emergency. Specifically, it seeks to prevent the state or any political subdivision from ordering the closure of places of worship or forbidding gatherings therein in response to emergencies at any governmental level, including those related to public health. This initiative emerged in response to the restrictions enforced during past public health crises, emphasizing the importance of maintaining believers' rights to congregate regardless of external circumstances.
Contention
The bill has sparked debate, particularly relating to the balance of public health and religious freedoms. Supporters of AJR10 emphasize the necessity of ensuring that personal freedoms are not infringed upon, while opponents raise concerns over potential public health risks that could arise if places of worship remain open during emergencies. This discourse highlights the complexities involved in navigating religious liberties against the backdrop of state health mandates, reflecting broader societal tensions about governance and individual rights. Consequently, AJR10 could set a significant precedent for how emergency powers intersect with constitutional rights.
A concurrent resolution to amend and reenact section 9 of article III and section 16 of article IV of the Constitution of North Dakota, relating to the threshold for approving a constitutional amendment.
Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing one or more amendments to the constitution to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office of federal officials and members of Congress.
Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing one or more amendments to the constitution to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office of federal officials and members of Congress.
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.
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.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii State 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.