HB 4444
Convention of states delegates have penalties for deviating from what they were sent to convention for
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill would create penalties for West Virginia state delegates who act outside of the scope of their authority during a convention of states convened to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, delegates found to have exceeded their authority would face immediate recall, a fine ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, and up to a 10-year prison sentence. Any votes cast by a delegate found to have acted improperly would be considered void. The bill aims to ensure delegates adhere to the specific purpose of the convention.
Key provisions
- Establishes a new section in the West Virginia Code outlining penalties for delegates.
- Mandates immediate recall of delegates who deviate from their authority.
- Imposes a fine of $100,000 to $500,000 on violating delegates.
- Provides for a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years for violating delegates.
- Declares any votes cast by a violating delegate to be void.
- Defines ‘deviation from authority’ in the context of a convention of states.
Who is affected
- West Virginia State Delegates
- Convention of States Delegates
- The West Virginia Legislature
Notable changes
- Creates a specific legal framework for addressing delegate misconduct during a convention of states.
- Adds criminal penalties for violations of delegate authority.
- Provides a mechanism for nullifying votes cast by violating delegates.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours