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HJR 15

US CONST-ART V-APPLICATION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jed Davis and 18 co-sponsors

HJR 15 empowers Illinois to call a Convention of States for amendments that limit federal power, impose fiscal restraints, and establish term limits for officials.

Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Jackie Haas
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Bill Summary · HJR 15

Summary of HJR 15 - US CONST-ART V-APPLICATION

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HJR 15
  • Title: US CONST-ART V-APPLICATION
  • Status: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Regan Deering
  • Introduced: February 18, 2025
  • Classification: Joint Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJR 15 seeks to address concerns regarding the concentration of power at the federal level and the perceived overreach of executive authority. The resolution aims to empower state legislatures to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution through a limited Convention of the States, as permitted under Article V of the Constitution. The primary focus is on restoring accountability and responsiveness in government by limiting federal power and jurisdiction.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes the following key provisions:

  1. Application for a Convention of the States:

    • The State of Illinois applies to Congress for the calling of a convention limited to proposing amendments that:
      • Impose fiscal restraints on the federal government.
      • Limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government.
      • Establish term limits for federal officials and members of Congress.

  2. Transmission of Application:

    • The Illinois Secretary of State is directed to send copies of this application to various federal officials, including:
      • The President of the United States.
      • The Secretary of the United States Senate.
      • The Speaker and Clerk of the United States House of Representatives.
      • The Illinois Congressional Delegation.
      • Presiding officers of each legislative house in the United States.

  3. Continuing Application:

    • This application will remain active until at least two-thirds of the states have made similar applications on the same subject.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The resolution primarily affects state legislatures and federal officials. If successful, it could lead to significant changes in federal governance, impacting how laws are enacted and the accountability of federal officials.

  • Potential Outcomes:

    • Should a convention be convened, it could result in amendments that fundamentally alter the relationship between state and federal governments, potentially leading to reduced federal spending and increased state autonomy.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 18, 2025: Bill filed by Rep. Brad Halbrook.
  • February 19, 2025: Referred to the Rules Committee.
  • Subsequent Co-Sponsorships: A series of co-sponsors were added, reflecting growing support for the resolution, with the most recent addition on November 10, 2025.

Conclusion

HJR 15 represents a significant legislative effort by the Illinois General Assembly to challenge federal authority and promote state-level governance. By calling for a Convention of the States, the resolution aims to initiate a process that could lead to constitutional amendments addressing fiscal responsibility, federal power limitations, and term limits for elected officials.

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

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