WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HR 5734

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- LINE ITEM VETO

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Chippendale and 6 co-sponsors

Proposes constitutional amendment granting Rhode Island Governor line-item veto authority to reject individual budget items while approving remaining appropriations bill.

03/25/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 5734

Legislative bill overview

HR 5734 proposes a constitutional amendment to grant Rhode Island's Governor line-item veto power—the ability to reject specific spending provisions within appropriations bills while approving the remainder. The joint resolution, if passed by the legislature, would be submitted to voters for ratification in a general election.

Why is this important

Line-item veto authority would significantly shift fiscal power from the legislature to the executive branch, allowing the Governor to reduce or eliminate individual budget items without vetoing entire bills. This is a structural change to state government that affects how budgets are negotiated and implemented, with implications for legislative oversight and spending priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive power expansion: Critics argue this concentrates too much budgetary authority in the Governor's office, reducing legislative branch leverage in budget negotiations and reducing checks and balances
  • Special interest concerns: Supporters claim it prevents "pork barrel" spending and waste, while opponents worry it could be used to eliminate targeted programs or funding for specific districts without full bill rejection
  • Precedent and practicality: Questions exist about how line-item vetoes interact with constitutionally-mandated spending, debt obligations, and whether the Governor should unilaterally reduce spending approved by elected representatives

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

Sign in to ask a question.