HARTFORD, Conn. – (Feb. 1, 2015) House Joint Resolution (HJR011), introduced by Representative Christopher Davis, proposes an amendment change to the Connecticut Constitution to allow the people to introduce bills rather than petition their representative.

Politicians are generally the biggest roadblock to nullification and other measures limiting government. The legislative process requires a a sponsor with willing to just sponsor a bill, often in the face of vocal opposition. With police unions and the federal government promising grants, and businesses with strong government ties lobbying against bills, getting them passed often becomes an uphill battle. When it comes to nullification – politicians are generally are not willing to take a stand. We see this in politicians from the left and right, and even from different jurisdictions like the state a federal.

But, if efforts to nullify federal marijuana laws are any indication, when put to the people, nullification has a far better chance. That’s why a change to the Connecticut constitution allowing the people to enact legislation is so important. This bill puts the grassroots at the center of the legislative process, bypassing the politicians in Hartford.

That section 1 of article third and section 5 of article eleventh of the Constitution of the state be amended to grant to the electors of the state the power of direct initiative and referendum.

Statement of Purpose:

To allow for more open government by providing citizens of the state the right to propose laws through direct initiative and approve or reject a statute through referendum.

Currently the Connecticut Constitution states in Article 3 Section 1 states the following:

“The legislative power of the state shall be vested in two distinct houses or branches; the one to be styled the senate, the other the house of representatives, and both together the general assembly. The style of their laws shall be: Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Assembly convened.”

Article 11 Section 5 states: “The rights and duties of all corporations shall remain as if this constitution had not been adopted; with the exception of such regulations and restrictions as are contained in this constitution. All laws not contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this constitution shall remain in force, until they shall expire by their own limitation, or shall be altered or repealed by the general assembly, in pursuance of this constitution. The validity of all bonds, debts, contracts, as well of individuals as of bodies corporate, or the state, of all suits, actions, or rights of action, both in law and equity, shall continue as if no change had taken place. All officers filling any office by election or appointment shall continue to exercise the duties thereof, according to their respective commissions or appointments, until their offices shall have been abolished or their successors selected and qualified in accordance with this constitution or the laws enacted pursuant thereto.”

This proposed amendment signifies two very important things, especially for those advocating nullification in Connecticut. First this Constitutional amendment cuts out the middleman and gives the people the legislative power to enact legislation. Also, the resolution empowers the people to end or alter unconstitutional or even unfavorable laws.

Kelli Sladick

The 10th Amendment

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