WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJ 9

RESOLUTION PROPOSING A STATE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT CONCERNING TWELVE-YEAR TERM LIMITS FOR LEGISLATORS AND CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kurt Vail

Proposes constitutional amendment limiting Connecticut legislators and constitutional officers to maximum 12-year terms, requiring voter approval via referendum.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Government Administration and Elections
#stateconstitutionalamendments #termlimits
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJ 9

Legislative bill overview

HJ 9 proposes a constitutional amendment that would impose 12-year term limits on Connecticut state legislators and constitutional officers (such as the Governor, Secretary of State, and Treasurer). The resolution requires voter approval through a statewide referendum to become part of the state constitution. This would fundamentally reshape eligibility rules for holding these offices.

Why this is important

Term limits directly affect political representation, legislative experience, and power dynamics in state government. Implementation would force experienced lawmakers to leave office regardless of voter preference, while potentially reducing institutional knowledge and the influence of long-serving incumbents. The change affects how citizens can exercise their voting power in future elections.

Potential points of contention

  • Voter choice vs. forced turnover: Opponents argue term limits restrict voters' right to re-elect preferred representatives, while supporters contend they prevent entrenched political machines and increase opportunity for new candidates
  • Experience and effectiveness: Critics worry institutional expertise and legislative relationships built over decades would be lost; proponents argue fresh perspectives improve governance and reduce special interest influence
  • Constitutional amendment threshold: Changing the state constitution requires a high bar (typically approval by both chambers and voter referendum), raising questions about whether this warrants such a major structural change compared to statutory term limits

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

Sign in to ask a question.