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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-05-08

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill establishes rules for North Carolina legislators who would serve as commissioners to an interstate convention for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution under Article V. It specifies how commissioners are selected (7 total: 3 from Senate, 3 from House, 1 at-large), sets qualification requirements, limits their authority to the scope of state applications, and makes it a felony for commissioners to vote on matters outside their authorized scope.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill provides necessary safeguards and clarity for any constitutional convention process, ensuring commissioners stay within their authorized scope and remain accountable to the legislature.
• •They contend it protects North Carolina's interests by preventing commissioners from acting beyond the specific issues the state legislature authorizes, and establishes clear ethical standards and oversight mechanisms for convention delegates.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue the bill reflects unfounded concerns about constitutional conventions, as no such convention has been called in U.S. history.
• •They could contend that creating felony penalties for commissioners exceeding their authority is an extreme measure that may deter qualified citizens from serving, and that the restrictions could make it impractical for delegates to effectively participate in convention proceedings or respond to unexpected developments.