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HB 443

Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ed Oliver

Alabama establishes procedures for appointing state commissioners to represent it at a potential U.S. constitutional convention under Article V.

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Bill Summary · HB 443

Legislative bill overview

HB 443 establishes a formal process for Alabama to appoint commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the state at an Article V Convention—a constitutional convention called by states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill creates procedural mechanisms for selecting these representatives and defining their roles and responsibilities in such a convention.

Why is this important

Article V Conventions are extraordinarily rare constitutional events that could fundamentally alter the U.S. Constitution. This bill prepares Alabama's institutional framework should enough states petition Congress to trigger such a convention, determining who would speak for Alabama on matters of constitutional import. The procedures established here would shape what positions Alabama takes on potential amendments affecting federal power, individual rights, or governmental structure.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional amendment scope: Critics worry that Article V Conventions could spiral beyond their intended scope, potentially allowing delegates to propose amendments far beyond what states originally called the convention for—a phenomenon sometimes called a "runaway convention."
  • Representation and accountability: Questions about whether appointed commissioners would truly represent Alabama citizens' interests or whether the appointment process favors particular political factions or ideologies.
  • Federalism implications: Debate over whether states should actively prepare for Article V processes, with some viewing this as destabilizing to federal governance and others seeing it as essential state sovereignty protection.

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

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