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Bill

Bill

HJ 17

RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE STATE CONSTITUTION CONCERNING TERM LIMITS FOR LEGISLATORS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tammy Nuccio

Connecticut proposes constitutional amendment establishing legislative term limits, requiring voter approval after legislative passage.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Government Administration and Elections
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Bill Summary · HJ 17

Legislative bill overview

HJ 17 is a constitutional resolution proposing to amend Connecticut's state constitution to establish term limits for state legislators. The resolution would need to pass both the House and Senate, then be approved by Connecticut voters in a referendum to become law. This is the formal first step in a multi-year constitutional amendment process.

Why is this important

Term limits would fundamentally reshape Connecticut's legislature by restricting how long individual lawmakers can serve. This affects legislative experience, institutional knowledge, seniority-based committee assignments, and the political dynamics of state government. The outcome directly determines whether sitting legislators can continue indefinitely or face mandatory retirement after a set number of terms.

Potential points of contention

  • Legislative experience vs. fresh perspectives: Critics argue term limits reduce institutional expertise and committee effectiveness, while supporters contend they reduce incumbent entrenchment and encourage new candidates
  • Voter choice and incumbency advantage: Opponents claim term limits restrict voters' right to re-elect preferred representatives, while proponents argue they level the playing field against incumbent advantages
  • Timeline and implementation: Disagreement over retroactive application—whether current legislators would be grandfathered in or subject to limits immediately—affects political feasibility and fairness perceptions

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

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