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Bill

LD 1059

An Act To Establish The Process For The Selection Of Delegates For A Convention Called Under The United States Constitution, Article V

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Randall Greenwood

Maine establishes procedures for selecting delegates to a U.S. constitutional convention if one is called under Article V, determining state representation in potential constitutional amendments.

Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
#constitutionalconvention #legislature #procedures
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Bill Summary · LD 1059

Legislative bill overview

LD 1059 establishes Maine's procedural framework for selecting delegates to a constitutional convention that could be called under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. Article V allows states to petition Congress for a convention to propose constitutional amendments if two-thirds of state legislatures apply. This bill specifies how Maine would choose its delegates if such a convention were triggered.

Why is this important

A constitutional convention is an extremely rare and consequential event—none has occurred since 1787. This bill determines who would represent Maine's interests in rewriting or amending the foundational law of the United States. The delegate selection process directly influences what amendments might be proposed and whether Maine's values and priorities get represented.

Potential points of contention

  • Convention scope concerns: Critics worry an Article V convention could become a "runaway convention" with no limits on what amendments are proposed, while supporters argue this is necessary to address constitutional deadlocks on issues like campaign finance or term limits
  • Delegate selection fairness: Questions about whether the proposed selection method adequately represents Maine's geographic regions, political diversity, and interests versus potentially favoring one party or faction
  • Precedent and irreversibility: Maine would be making a binding procedural commitment for an event that could reshape national governance, with limited control over the convention once convened

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

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