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Bill

S 1890

Proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the terms of office of members of the legislature to four years

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jake Ashby

S 1890 - Increase Legislative Terms to Four Years OverviewBill Number: S 1890 Title: Proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the terms of office of members of the legislat

OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Bill Summary · S 1890

S 1890 - Increase Legislative Terms to Four Years

Overview

Bill Number: S 1890
Title: Proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the terms of office of members of the legislature to four years
Status: OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
Introduced: May 22, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to amend the state constitution to extend the terms of office for members of the state legislature from the current two-year terms to four-year terms. Proponents argue that longer terms would provide more stability and continuity in the legislative process, allowing lawmakers to focus on long-term policy goals rather than constant campaigning and reelection. The bill's supporters also claim that four-year terms would increase institutional knowledge and expertise among legislators.

Key Provisions

  • Amends the state constitution to change legislative terms from two years to four years
  • Applies the four-year term length to both the state senate and state house of representatives
  • Maintains the current staggered election schedule, with half the legislature up for election every two years
  • Requires a public referendum to approve the constitutional amendment before it can take effect

Affected Parties and Impacts

If enacted, this bill would directly impact all current and future members of the state legislature. Longer terms could provide more job security and policy influence for lawmakers, but may also make them less accountable to voters in the short term. Constituents may see both benefits and drawbacks, with less frequent elections but potentially less responsiveness from their representatives.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been referred to the state Senate Judiciary Committee for further consideration and a recommendation. If approved by the committee, it would then need to pass both chambers of the legislature by a three-fifths majority vote. Finally, the proposed constitutional amendment would have to be approved by a public referendum before taking effect. The entire process could take 12-18 months to complete.

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

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