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Minutes for HB2807 - Committee on Federal and State Affairs
Short Title
Providing for the appointment of delegates to a convention under article V of the constitution of the United States and prescribing the duties and responsibilities therefor.
Minutes Content for Thu, Feb 29, 2024
Vice Chairperson Kessler opened the hearing on HB2807. The revisor provided an overview of the bill (Attachment 1). Questions were asked by Representatives Blew and Haswood.
The Vice Chair recognized Representative Blake Carpenter, Speaker Pro Tem, as a proponent of HB2807 (Attachment 2). He stated that this bill addresses the concerns of there being a runaway convention and other uncertainties regarding the delegate selection process. It represents a thoughtful, deliberate approach to a complex issue. It ensures that Kansas is prepared for an Article V convention with a delegation that is representative, accountable, and capable of advocating for the interests of our state and its citizens. Questions were asked by Representatives Hoye, Haskins, Sanders, Clayton, and McNorton.
Representative Eric Smith testified in favor of HB2807 (Attachment 3). He stated that Kansas has already signed on for the convention of states, but it doesn't have a process for how to select the delegates. HB2807 establishes clear guidelines for the appointment and duties of delegates to the convention, ensuring that they are elected or appointed members of the Kansas Legislature and are accountable to the people of Kansas through the elected legislative leadership. He would urge the Committee to pass this bill. Questions were asked by Representatives Blew, Sanders, and Miller.
Chairperson Carpenter noted that there is written proponent testimony from David Copeland (Attachment 4) and Ben Terrill (Attachment 5).
The Chairperson recognized John Axtell, Kansas Campaign for Liberty, who testified in opposition to HB2807 (Attachment 6). He stated that the bill presumes that the delegates to the convention of states could be constrained when the delegates have no constraints based on an Illinois federal court decision. Once the delegates are seated, they are free to do as they wish. Questions were asked by Representatives Blew, Sanders, and Hoye, and Chairperson Carpenter.
Chairperson Carpenter recognized Shawn Meehan as an opponent to HB2807 (Attachment 7). He stated that Article V of the Constitution clearly states that a convention is for proposing amendments. This is not a one state-one vote convention because the convention, when called to order, can amend it.
Chairperson Carpenter closed the hearing on HB2807.
Chairperson Carpenter stated there were minutes up for approval.
Representative Thomas moved that the minutes of February 13, 14, and 15, 2024, be approved, seconded by Representative Hoye. The minutes were approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 a.m.
