Require Governor to provide at least five days notice to all state legislators when calling a Special Session
Impact
If enacted, HJR22 would significantly alter the current procedural framework for calling special sessions of the Legislature. The amendment is positioned to ensure that legislators are not only informed but also have sufficient time to arrange their schedules and review any upcoming legislation or issues to be addressed during the special session. This could improve the overall legislative process by potentially leading to better-informed and more productive sessions.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 22 (HJR22) proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of West Virginia. The key provision of this bill is to require the governor to issue a proclamation for convening the Legislature at least five days prior to the designated meeting. This change is aimed at enhancing transparency and providing adequate notice to legislators for special sessions, thus allowing them the necessary time to prepare for discussions on legislative matters.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HJR22 appears to show general support for the proposed amendment, particularly from those who prioritize legislative efficiency and effectiveness. Advocates argue that this bill will strengthen democratic processes within the government by allowing for greater participation of legislators. However, there may be some dissent among those who feel that the added requirement could impede the governor’s ability to respond swiftly in times of urgent public need.
Contention
One notable point of contention regarding HJR22 could revolve around the balance between the executive branch's flexibility to convene the Legislature and the legislative branch's need for notification and preparation. Critics might argue that imposing a timeline for the governor's proclamation could restrict timely responses to urgent matters that may warrant quick legislative action. This reflects a broader debate on the appropriate balance of power between state governance branches.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.
Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes, to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes, and to conforming codifications enacted by the 88th Legislature to other Acts of that legislature.