Bill > SB1567

This bill revises laws concerning "faithful delegates" for Article V conventions, which are gatherings of states convened under Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose amendments. It establishes detailed qualifications for delegates, requiring them to be U.S. citizens residing in Tennessee for at least five years, at least 25 years old, registered voters, and free from recent lobbying activity, federal employment or contracting within the last ten years, or holding federal elected/appointed office within the last ten years, and having no recent felony convictions. The bill outlines a process for appointing delegates and alternate delegates through a joint resolution requiring a two-thirds vote, ensuring representation from the state's grand divisions and maintaining an odd number of delegates. It also specifies that delegates can be removed by the General Assembly or an advisory committee. Crucially, the bill mandates that the joint resolution appointing delegates must define their "commission," which includes strict limitations on their actions, such as adhering to the traditional one-state-one-vote rule, requiring recorded votes, ensuring proposed amendments are germane to the convention's purpose, and prohibiting votes on amendments that alter individual liberty guarantees in the U.S. Constitution. Delegates must also take an oath to uphold these instructions and limitations, and their authority is strictly confined to the subject matter specified in the state's application for the convention. The bill creates an "Article V convention advisory committee" composed of legislative members to monitor delegate actions and determine if they exceed their authority, with the power to recommend removal. Furthermore, delegates are prohibited from accepting gifts exceeding $200 and are made ineligible to run for state senator, representative, or governor for four years after the convention's adjournment. Violating these provisions can result in a Class E felony.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1567&ga=114