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Bill

SC 513

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael McLendon

Mississippi applies to call a constitutional convention under Article V to propose congressional term limit amendments, bypassing normal legislative amendment procedures.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · SC 513

Legislative bill overview

SC 513 directs Mississippi to apply for a federal constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution, specifically to propose an amendment imposing congressional term limits. This is a state-level resolution that would formally request Congress to call a convention where delegates could draft amendments to the Constitution.

Why is this important

Term limits for Congress is a long-standing political debate that cannot proceed through normal amendment channels since sitting legislators must approve constitutional amendments. An Article V convention represents an alternative pathway that bypasses Congress entirely. This bill positions Mississippi to join other states pursuing this mechanism, and if enough states (34 total) apply, it could trigger the first constitutional convention since 1787.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional authority concerns: There is significant legal disagreement about whether an Article V convention could be limited to a single issue (term limits) or whether it becomes a "runaway convention" that could propose any amendments
  • Democratic representation questions: Delegates to such a convention would not be directly elected by voters, raising concerns about legitimacy and accountability
  • Opposing perspectives on term limits: Supporters argue term limits reduce incumbent entrenchment; opponents contend experienced legislators are valuable and voters already have term limits through elections
  • State coordination uncertainty: Success depends on 33 other states cooperating, creating unpredictability about whether this process ever reaches fruition

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

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