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SJ 14

RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE STATE CONSTITUTION MODIFYING THE LEGISLATIVE TERM OF OFFICE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jill Barry and 27 co-sponsors

Connecticut proposes amending the state constitution to modify legislative term lengths, advancing through Senate committees toward consideration and potential voter approval.

FILE NO. 659
#generalassemblymembers #stateconstitutionalamendments #termofoffice
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Bill Summary · SJ 14

Legislative bill overview

SJ 14 is a constitutional amendment resolution that would modify the term length for Connecticut state legislators. The bill has advanced through initial legislative committees and is now on the Senate calendar for consideration. This is a proposal to amend the state constitution, which requires legislative approval and voter ratification.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments affecting legislative terms directly impact political representation, campaign cycles, and legislative continuity. Changes to term length influence how frequently voters can hold elected officials accountable and how much time legislators have to develop expertise and relationships needed for effective governance.

Potential points of contention

  • Incumbent advantage vs. voter accountability: Longer terms reduce election frequency, potentially weakening voter control and incumbents' incentive to remain responsive; shorter terms increase campaign costs and disruption
  • Legislative effectiveness: Longer terms may allow more time for complex policy work and institutional knowledge, but shorter terms could increase turnover and fresh perspectives
  • Voter ratification burden: Constitutional amendments require voter approval, so passage depends on public opinion about whether current two-year terms are problematic and what alternative is preferable

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

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