A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jesse Green

Bill SF 350 establishes a framework for appointing delegates to a U.S. constitutional convention, impacting 37 states seeking amendments and ensuring proper funding and conduct.

Subcommittee: Schultz, Blake, and Green.

#appropriations #congress #constitutionoftheunitedstates #conventions #federalgovernment #jointpowersandauthorities #resolutions #supremecourtoftheunitedstates

Summary of Bill SF 350

Bill Number: SF 350
Title: A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.
Status: Subcommittee: Schultz, Blake, and Green
Introduced: February 18, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriations, Congress, Constitution of the United States, Conventions, Federal Government, Joint Powers and Authorities, Resolutions, Supreme Court of the United States

Purpose and Intent

Bill SF 350 aims to establish a framework for the appointment of delegates to a convention called by the United States Congress under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. This convention would be convened to propose amendments to the Constitution, reflecting the growing interest among states to address specific issues through constitutional amendments.

Key Provisions

Legislative Findings:

The bill outlines the two methods for proposing amendments to the Constitution as per Article V:
- By Congress with a two-thirds majority in both houses.
- By a convention called upon the application of two-thirds of state legislatures.
It notes that over 450 applications for such a convention have been made, with 37 states currently having active resolutions calling for a convention on specified topics.

Delegate Appointment:

The bill specifies the process for appointing delegates to the convention, ensuring that the delegates represent the interests of their respective states.

Appropriations:

The bill includes provisions for appropriating funds necessary for the convention and the appointment of delegates.

Penalties:

It establishes penalties for violations related to the conduct of delegates or the process of the convention.

Impact

States Affected: The bill primarily impacts the 37 states that have active resolutions calling for a convention. These states include Alabama, California, Florida, Texas, and others.

Delegates: Individuals appointed as delegates will be directly affected, as the bill outlines their roles and responsibilities.

Constitutional Amendments: If the convention is convened, the proposed amendments could significantly alter the constitutional landscape, depending on the topics addressed.

Procedural Aspects

Subcommittee Review: The bill was introduced and referred to the State Government committee on February 18, 2025, and is currently under review by the subcommittee consisting of members Schultz, Blake, and Green.

Legislative Timeline: The bill's progress will depend on the outcomes of the subcommittee's review and subsequent actions by the full legislative body.

Conclusion

Bill SF 350 represents a significant legislative effort to facilitate a convention for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. By establishing a clear process for delegate appointment and addressing funding and penalties, the bill seeks to ensure that any future convention operates smoothly and effectively, reflecting the collective will of the states involved.