WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJR 13

Legislative bill overview

SJR 13 is a joint resolution that would propose a constitutional amendment to impose term limits on members of Congress. Utah would be signaling support for a federal constitutional amendment requiring representatives to serve a maximum number of terms. This is a state-level resolution calling for action at the federal level, not a law directly limiting Utah's own representation.

Why is this important

Term limits for Congress represent a fundamental structural change to the federal government. This directly affects how long elected officials can serve and would reshape electoral dynamics, institutional knowledge, and political incentives in Congress. It's part of an ongoing national debate about legislative turnover and whether term limits would improve governance or create unintended consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional amendment threshold: Federal term limits require approval by two-thirds of both chambers of Congress or a constitutional convention called by 34 state legislatures—a historically difficult threshold that makes passage uncertain
  • Loss of seniority and experience: Critics argue term limits reduce institutional continuity and legislative expertise, while supporters contend it reduces incumbent advantage and increases fresh perspectives
  • Voter choice implications: Opponents view term limits as restricting voters' ability to re-elect preferred representatives, while proponents see it as necessary reform to reduce partisan entrenchment and special interest influence

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

Sign in to ask a question.