new-mexico-welcomeIntroduced by Representative Dennis Roch in the New Mexico state house is House Joint Resolution 1 (HJR1). If passed, the resolution would make the position of the legislature as follows:

that New Mexico hereby claims sovereignty under the tenth amendment to the constitution of the United States over all powers not otherwise enumerated and granted to the federal government by the constitution of the United States

that all compulsory federal legislation that directs states to comply under threat of civil or criminal penalties or sanctions or requires states to pass legislation or lose federal funding be prohibited or repealed

While non-binding, introduction of such resolutions in dozens of states around the country have brought the principles of the 10th Amendment to the public discussion. Passage, which can often be easier for a non-binding statement, has also made fertile ground for follow-up legislation, “with teeth.”

CLICK HERE to view the Tenth Amendment Center’s 10th amendment resolution tracking page

CLICK HERE to view the Tenth Amendment Center’s model 10th Amendment Resolution, which you can send to your representatives when urging them to introduce one in your state.

Michael Boldin