COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio General Assembly has taken steps to address concerns regarding the extent of federal government power and fiscal responsibility by introducing a joint resolution to apply for a Convention of the States under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution, sponsored by Representatives McClain and Willis, aims to propose amendments that would impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and establish term limits for government officials and Members of Congress.
The resolution highlights criticisms of the federal government’s unsustainable national debt resulting from imprudent spending practices and its departure from what is seen as a proper interpretation of the Constitution. Furthermore, it contends that the federal government has encroached upon the roles of the states by imposing unfunded mandates.
The Ohio General Assembly seeks to propose amendments through a Convention of the States. This convention would focus exclusively on addressing fiscal restraints, reducing federal power and jurisdiction, and introducing term limits for government officials and Members of Congress.
Significantly, the resolution emphasizes that Congress’s power to call the convention is limited to determining a reasonable time and place for the initial meeting. The authority to select delegates and establish rules for the convention rests solely with the state legislatures. It is explicitly stated that a Convention of the States would involve voting based on a one-state, one-vote principle, and amendments modifying the Bill of Rights would not be considered.
The Ohio General Assembly’s application for the convention remains active until at least two-thirds of the state legislatures make similar applications. The resolution recommends that proposed amendments be ratified by the legislatures of the various states. It also grants the Ohio General Assembly the ability to issue instructions to its delegates and recalls them in the event of a breach of duty or violation of instructions.
The resolution put forth by the Ohio General Assembly reflects the growing concerns among state legislators regarding federal government overreach and financial stability. The call for a Convention of the States offers an opportunity for states to propose amendments aimed at restoring fiscal responsibility, limiting federal power, and ensuring accountability among government officials. The outcome and impact of this initiative hinge upon the response from Congress and other state legislatures nationwide.
The entire resolution can viewed at the following link: https://search-prod.lis.state.oh.us/solarapi/v1/general_assembly_135/resolutions/hjr3/IN/00/hjr3_00_IN?format=pdf