Connecticut lawmakers reverse call for Article V Constitutional Convention

By Constitution State News
May 9, 2025

The Connecticut General Assembly has taken a significant step by reversing its previous call for an Article V Constitutional Convention. Both chambers voted unanimously to rescind the earlier decision, which had been seen as potentially disruptive to established freedoms and protections.

Cheri Quickmire, Executive Director of Common Cause Connecticut, emphasized the potential dangers of such a convention: “A Constitutional Convention would mean constitutional chaos for every basic freedom people from Connecticut cherish. That’s why we must stop all efforts and correct the mistakes of past legislators. This is not a partisan idea as the unanimous votes show, but one that protects our current Constitution.”

Common Cause in Connecticut played a crucial role in this legislative effort, collaborating with both chambers to pass HJR49. The legislation was championed by Representative Matt Blumenthal and Senator Mae Flexer and aimed at rescinding all previous calls for a convention while informing Congress of this rejection.

This development follows Washington State’s similar action earlier this year, marking another setback for advocates of a Constitutional Convention. Viki Harrison, Policy Director of Common Cause, stated: “We can’t just fight new battles when it comes to stopping a dangerous constitutional convention – we must also educate legislators and rescind calls passed in previous legislatures. I’m proud we could help Connecticut legislators correct the mistakes of the past.”

An Article V Constitutional Convention poses risks due to its lack of procedural rules regarding attendance, agenda-setting, voting processes, and representation. Such an event could lead to significant changes or even a complete rewrite of the U.S. Constitution without any established controls.

HJR49 aims to safeguard against these risks by eliminating outdated resolutions that could be exploited to advance radical agendas. This move counters national movements attempting legal maneuvers using old state resolutions as leverage for convening a new convention.