JOINT RESOLUTION RESCINDING ALL PRIOR ARTICLE V CONVENTION APPLICATIONS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lou DiPalma and 4 co-sponsors

Rhode Island rescinds its prior Article V convention applications, signaling the state’s opposition to pursuing a national constitutional convention at this time.

05/21/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Summary of SR 2954 (Rhode Island)

Purpose and intent

SR 2954 is a joint resolution in the Rhode Island Senate titled “Joint Resolution Rescinding All Prior Article V Convention Applications.”

The central aim is to formally rescind Rhode Island’s prior applications to convene a national constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. Article V allows states to call a convention for proposing amendments, if a sufficient number of states join in applications.

Key provisions and changes

Rescission of prior applications: The resolution explicitly withdraws or nullifies Rhode Island’s previously submitted requests to convene an Article V constitutional convention.

Status as a non-binding resolution: As a Senate resolution, it communicates the legislature’s position. It does not by itself amend federal law or bind other states, but it signals Rhode Island’s official stance regarding Article V processes.

Formal action to clarify state posture: By rescinding prior applications, the bill seeks to end Rhode Island’s potential participation in any Article V convention should other states pursue one in the future.

Who and what would be affected

State governmental posture: Rhode Island’s legislative documentation would reflect that the state no longer supports or endorses Article V convention calls based on the prior applications being rescinded.

Federal-state dynamics: While it does not alter federal constitutional processes directly, it may influence ongoing national discussions by signaling the state’s opposition to pursuing an Article V convention at this time.

Stakeholders: Advocates on either side of the Article V convention debate (federal amendment proponents and opponents) would note Rhode Island’s formal position as a rescission of its earlier applications.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: The bill was introduced on March 4, 2026, and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Consideration timeline: The bill had a scheduled hearing and/or consideration for May 21, 2026, following its introduction.

Sponsors: The bill lists multiple co-sponsors, indicating cross-chamber or cross-support among legislators. Specific co-sponsors include Mark McKenney, Lou DiPalma, Bridget Valverde, Victoria Gu, and Dawn Euer.

Potential impact and considerations

Legal impact: The resolution does not create new law or redirect federal processes but clarifies Rhode Island’s legislative position regarding Article V applications.

Political and policy significance: Establishes a formal stance on a contentious national issue related to constitutional amendment procedures; could influence public debate and future legislative actions by signaling opposition to Article V conventions from the Rhode Island General Assembly.

Next steps: If advanced, the resolution would typically proceed through hearings, possible amendments, and votes in the Senate, and may require action in the House to become an adopted resolution or to influence official state position.