House Joint Resolution No. [insert number] is a legislative measure introduced in Montana that seeks to apply for a convention of the states under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution expresses concerns about the federal government's increasing national debt, overreach into state roles through unfunded mandates, and a failure to adhere to a proper interpretation of the Constitution. It emphasizes the responsibility of state legislators to protect the liberties of their citizens by proposing amendments that would impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and set term limits for federal officials and members of Congress.
The resolution directs the Montana Secretary of State to send copies of this application to various federal and state officials, including the President and Secretary of the U.S. Senate, the Speaker and Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the presiding officers of legislative houses in other states, seeking their cooperation. Additionally, it establishes that this application will remain active until at least two-thirds of the states have made similar applications on the same subject, thereby reinforcing the ongoing nature of this initiative.