Bill > SB272

This bill establishes a comprehensive procedure for appointing and managing delegates to an Article V Convention, which is a constitutional mechanism for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill specifies that five delegates and five alternate delegates will be appointed proportionally by the Speaker of the House, Senate President, and Governor, with representatives from both legislative chambers. These delegates are required to take an oath supporting the U.S. and Kansas Constitutions and must strictly follow legislative instructions. The bill creates a joint committee of correspondence to communicate with and provide guidance to delegates, ensuring they do not propose or vote on amendments outside the convention's original scope. Delegates can be recalled by the appointing authorities or dismissed by a majority vote of other delegates if they attempt to exceed their authorized mandate. The legislature will provide detailed instructions about convention procedures and can amend these instructions at any time. The bill also defines key terms like "delegate," "alternate delegate," and "unauthorized amendment" to provide clarity and prevent potential legal ambiguities during the convention process. This legislation aims to provide a structured, accountable framework for Kansas's participation in an Article V Convention, maintaining legislative oversight and protecting the state's intended constitutional objectives.