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SB 517

Amendments Convention Called Under Article V of the U.S. Constitution - Delegation to the Convention

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Justin Ready

Maryland bill authorizes state delegates to a U.S. constitutional amendment convention under Article V, potentially enabling sweeping federal amendments if ratified by 38 states.

First Reading Education, Energy, and the Environment
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Bill Summary · SB 517

Legislative bill overview

SB 517 would authorize Maryland to send delegates to a convention called under Article V of the U.S. Constitution for the purpose of proposing amendments to the federal constitution. The bill establishes the framework for Maryland's participation in such a convention, including delegate selection and procedural requirements.

Why is this important

Article V conventions are extraordinarily rare—none have successfully occurred in U.S. history—making this a significant constitutional development if passed. The outcome could reshape fundamental aspects of American government, depending on which amendments are proposed, though any amendments would still require ratification by 38 states before taking effect.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope uncertainty: Convention rules remain undefined; it's unclear whether delegates would be limited to pre-specified amendments or could propose broad constitutional changes ("runaway convention" concern)
  • Partisan implications: The amendment topic (unspecified in bill summary) could advantage certain political ideologies, raising concerns about which groups are driving the convention call
  • Delegation authority: Questions about whether state legislatures should unilaterally commit Maryland to binding participation in a federal constitutional process without broader public input

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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