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Bill

HB 67

Establish appointment procedures for a convention of states

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tim Barhorst and 6 co-sponsors

HB 67 creates procedural rules for Ohio delegates to participate in a constitutional convention called by multiple states to propose U.S. constitutional amendments.

Referred to committee
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Bill Summary · HB 67

Legislative bill overview

HB 67 establishes the procedural framework for Ohio to participate in a convention of states, which is a constitutional mechanism allowing states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution without federal congressional approval. The bill details how Ohio would select delegates, conduct voting, and coordinate with other states in such a convention process.

Why is this important

A convention of states represents a significant shift in constitutional amendment power from Congress to the states—a mechanism that hasn't been successfully invoked since the original Constitutional Convention in 1787. This bill would enable Ohio to formally participate if such a convention were called, making it relevant to major national debates about constitutional reform, including issues ranging from federal spending limits to election procedures.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional uncertainty: Legal scholars disagree on whether a convention of states could remain limited to specific topics or might become a "runaway convention" that rewrites larger portions of the Constitution
  • Partisan implications: Different groups support conventions for different reasons (fiscal conservatives want spending limits; progressives might seek other amendments), raising questions about which amendments would actually be proposed
  • Democratic representation: Questions exist about how delegate selection and voting procedures ensure fair representation versus allowing wealthy interests or organized movements to dominate the process

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

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