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Bill

SCR 1011

congressional term limits; convention.

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Shawnna Bolick and 8 co-sponsors

Arizona concurrent resolution applying for Article V constitutional convention to propose congressional term limits amendment, bypassing traditional amendment process.

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Bill Summary · SCR 1011

Legislative bill overview

SCR 1011 is a concurrent resolution that would direct Arizona's legislature to apply for a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution for the purpose of proposing a constitutional amendment to impose term limits on members of Congress. This is part of a broader interstate movement to use the Article V convention mechanism to circumvent the traditional amendment process requiring congressional approval.

Why is this important

Congressional term limits are a perennial policy debate, with supporters arguing they would reduce incumbent advantage and increase turnover, while opponents contend they would weaken legislative expertise and increase lobbyist influence. The Article V convention approach bypasses Congress entirely—a significant shift in how constitutional amendments could be pursued, with uncertain procedural outcomes and potential consequences for what amendments could be proposed.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional uncertainty: An Article V convention has never been convened; its scope, procedures, and whether it could propose amendments beyond term limits remain legally untested and contentious
  • "Runaway convention" concerns: Critics worry a convention could propose amendments unrelated to term limits, potentially threatening other constitutional protections without legislative safeguards
  • Federalism and timing: The resolution commits Arizona to a process requiring coordination among multiple states (currently 17 states have passed similar resolutions), with no guaranteed timeline or certainty of success

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

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