Resolutions for an application to Congress for an amendment overturning Citizens United

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 3 co-sponsors

Bill H 3843 urges Congress to amend the Constitution, limiting corporate and union influence in elections, enhancing voter power, and ensuring fair campaign financing.

Accompanied a study order, see H5466 (under House Rule 27)

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3843, introduced in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, seeks to memorialize Congress to pass a constitutional amendment aimed at overturning the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. The intent of this bill is to restore the integrity of the electoral process and ensure fair elections by limiting the influence of corporations, unions, and political action committees in campaign financing.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key provisions:

Restoration of First Amendment Rights: The proposed amendment aims to reaffirm the rights of individuals in the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of political equality among natural persons.

Regulation of Campaign Contributions: It allows Congress and state legislatures to regulate and limit contributions and expenditures in campaigns, elections, or ballot measures, thereby addressing the disproportionate influence of money in politics.

Distinction Between Natural and Juridical Persons: The amendment would empower Congress and the states to distinguish between individuals (natural persons) and entities such as corporations (juridical persons), potentially prohibiting the latter from raising and spending money in political campaigns.

Legislative Authority: It grants Congress and the states the authority to implement and enforce regulations related to campaign financing through appropriate legislation.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:

Voters: By aiming to restore fair elections, the bill seeks to enhance the political power of individual voters against the backdrop of corporate and special interest influence.

Political Entities: Corporations, unions, and political action committees may face new regulations regarding their financial contributions to campaigns and elections.

Legislators: The bill calls upon members of Congress and state legislatures to consider and act upon the proposed amendment.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: February 27, 2025

Current Status: The bill is scheduled for a hearing on November 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:50 PM in Room B-1, with a virtual hearing option available.

Committee Referral: The bill has been referred to the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs and has received concurrence from the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill H 3843 represents a significant legislative effort by Massachusetts lawmakers to address concerns regarding the influence of money in politics following the Citizens United ruling. By advocating for a constitutional amendment, the bill aims to restore democratic principles and ensure that elections are fair and representative of the will of the people.

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