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HD 727

Resolutions calling on Article V of the United States Constitution for the convening of a convention of the states

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Joe McKenna and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts resolution petitions for a federal constitutional convention under Article V, risking unpredictable amendments but lacking specificity on desired constitutional changes.

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Bill Summary · HD 727

Legislative bill overview

HD 727 is a resolution calling on Congress to convene a constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution urges Massachusetts to join other states in petitioning for such a convention, though it does not specify what constitutional amendments would be proposed.

Why is this important

Article V conventions are extraordinarily rare—one has never been successfully convened in U.S. history despite numerous attempts. If 34 states petition Congress, a convention becomes mandatory, potentially allowing states to propose amendments to the Constitution that could fundamentally alter federal power, individual rights, or the governmental structure itself.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope uncertainty: Once convened, a constitutional convention could theoretically propose amendments on any topic, not just the sponsors' intended focus—a "runaway convention" concern that has deterred many states from petitioning
  • Lack of specificity: The resolution doesn't clearly define what constitutional changes Massachusetts actually seeks, making it unclear what delegates would be mandated to pursue
  • Unequal state representation: Convention rules are undefined by the Constitution, raising questions about whether all states would have equal voting power or whether representation would be proportional to population

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

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