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H 3846

An Act in furtherance of the Citizens Commission concerning a Constitutional Amendment to secure government of the people

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 2 co-sponsors

Extends the Citizens Commission's life to December 31, 2028 and tightens vacancy rules: requires timely notice, public posting of applicants, and 30-day appointments.

Accompanied a study order, see H5466 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 3846

Summary of Massachusetts H 3846 — An Act in furtherance of the Citizens Commission concerning a Constitutional Amendment to secure government of the people

Purpose and intent

  • The bill revives and extends the lifespan of the Citizens Commission established under Chapter 322 of the Acts of 2018, which concerns a constitutional amendment aimed at securing government of the people.
  • Primary aim is to ensure the Commission continues to exist and fulfill its responsibilities through December 31, 2028.

Key provisions

Section 1

  • Amends subsection c. of section 1 of Chapter 322 of the Acts of 2018.
  • New language: “The Citizens Commission shall continue to exist and perform the responsibilities required in this section until December 31, 2028.”
  • Effect: Extends the statutory mandate and duties of the Commission by roughly five years beyond current sunset.

Section 2

  • Adds a new subsection (j) to Section 3 of Chapter 322.
  • Vacancy process:
    • If a vacancy occurs, the chair or co-chairs must notify the appropriate appointing authority.
    • The appointing authority must appoint within 30 days after receiving notice, choosing from:
    • (i) a person who previously duly applied to serve on the Commission; or
    • (ii) a person who files an application under the act.
    • Additional procedural safeguards:
    • Notice of the vacancy must be posted by the appointing authority within 7 days of receipt.
    • The appointee’s application must be publicly posted prior to the appointment.

Legislative actions and status

  • Introduction and filing:
    • Introduced on February 27, 2025.
    • Filed on January 13, 2025 (House Docket No. 784).
  • Committee and Senate actions:
    • Referred to the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs (Feb 27, 2025).
    • Senate concurred on Feb 27, 2025.
  • Hearing schedule:
    • Original hearing date listed as November 3, 2025.
    • Hearing rescheduled to November 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:50 PM (B-1) with updated virtual hearing end time; later notice indicates a new end time of 5:00 PM for the same date.

Who or what is affected

  • The Citizens Commission established under Chapter 322 (Acts of 2018) and its ongoing operations.
  • Appointing authorities responsible for filling vacancies on the Commission.
  • Prospective applicants who may seek appointment to the Commission.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Procedural clarity: The bill tightens vacancy notification and posting requirements, enhancing transparency and ensuring opportunities for public participation.
  • Continuity of governance: By extending the Commission’s life to 2028, the bill aims to preserve continuity in oversight and guidance relating to the constitutional amendment process described by the original act.
  • Relation to existing framework: Builds on the 2018 framework (Chapter 322) without introducing new constitutional changes beyond extending the Commission’s lifespan and clarifying vacancy procedures.

Related bill

  • HD 784 is listed as related/replacing this bill.

Notes: This summary reflects the text and status information provided, including the extension to 2028 and the vacancy-procedure provisions.

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

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