Summary of HJRES 99

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HJRES 99

Title: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to provide that new States may be admitted to the United States upon a concurrence of two thirds of each house of Congress.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced On: June 06, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 99 seeks to amend the United States Constitution to establish a new requirement for the admission of new states into the Union. The proposed amendment stipulates that any new state may only be admitted with the approval of two-thirds of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This change aims to provide a more stringent process for state admission, potentially ensuring that new states align more closely with the interests and values of the existing states.

Key Provisions

• Amendment Proposal: The resolution proposes the following article as an amendment to the Constitution:

  "New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union upon the Concurrence of two thirds of each House."

• Ratification Requirement: For the amendment to become valid, it must be ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states.

Impact

• States Seeking Admission: The amendment would directly affect any future territories or regions seeking statehood, as they would need to secure a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress.

• Congressional Dynamics: This change could alter the legislative landscape by making it more challenging for new states to gain admission, potentially affecting political representation and the balance of power in Congress.

• Existing States: Current states may have a vested interest in this amendment, as it could influence their political dynamics and representation in Congress.

Legislative Actions

• June 06, 2025: HJRES 99 was introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Sponsors

• Primary Sponsor: Tom McClintock
  
• Cosponsors:
  • Scott Perry
  • Richard McCormick
  • Andy Biggs

Conclusion

HJRES 99 represents a significant proposal to amend the Constitution regarding the admission of new states. By requiring a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress, the bill aims to create a more rigorous process for statehood, which could have lasting implications for the political landscape of the United States. The resolution is currently under consideration by the House Committee on the Judiciary.