Bill > HJR121

This Joint Resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to clarify the powers of the Governor, the Legislature, and the Supreme Court when disaster or emergency declarations are made. Specifically, it requires the Governor to convene a special session of the Legislature if a disaster or emergency declaration meets certain criteria, such as affecting at least two-fifths of the counties or half of the state's population, and grants the Legislature the power to renew, extend, or respond to such declarations. The amendment also limits the duration of a disaster or emergency declaration to 30 days, or 90 days for nuclear or radiological events, unless the Legislature renews it. Furthermore, it allows members of the Legislature to sue the Governor for failing to call a special session when required, and grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction over such lawsuits. This proposed amendment will be put to a vote on November 7, 2023.