DeSantis and Florida Legislature Propose Constitutional Amendments, Including Term Limits

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Monday his collaboration with the Florida legislature to advocate for four constitutional amendments as outlined in Article V.

In his initial address, DeSantis emphasized the recurring theme of prioritizing the political elite over the interests of the American populace. He underscored the necessity of four proposed amendments to address this issue.

The first proposed amendment focuses on implementing term limits for members of Congress, a system already in place and proven effective within Florida. DeSantis highlighted the value of limited terms, which incentivize elected officials to focus on making a genuine impact rather than perpetuating lengthy stays in office. He stressed the need for state-led action to enforce such limits on Congress, emphasizing the potential for positive change in governmental dynamics.

The second proposed reform revolves around mandating a balanced budget at the federal level, mirroring existing practices in many states, including Florida. DeSantis argued that this measure promotes fiscal responsibility and prevents unchecked government spending.

A third amendment seeks to grant the president a line-item veto, akin to the authority held by governors, allowing for targeted rejection of excessive spending within larger bills. DeSantis highlighted the substantial financial savings achievable through this provision, emphasizing the potential to eliminate wasteful expenditure.

The final proposed amendment aims to ensure that laws enacted by Congress equally apply to its members, eliminating any possibility of exemptions or special privileges. DeSantis emphasized the importance of preventing Congress from operating as a privileged ruling class, asserting the bipartisan support for such measures among the public.

He emphasized that these proposals transcend partisan divides, garnering widespread support across demographics. DeSantis framed these reforms as a means to reclaim government accountability and uphold the principles laid out by the Founding Fathers.

He underscored the role of states in initiating such changes, particularly in instances where federal entities may be resistant to self-reform. Overall, DeSantis positioned these amendments as essential steps toward a government truly accountable to “We the People,” aligning with the vision of the nation’s founders.

Governor Ron DeSantis Calls for Constitutional Reforms https://t.co/vNJ0a4pcvy

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) January 29, 2024

Certainly! Here’s a rephrased version of the text:

As noted on whitehouse.gov, states possess the authority to propose amendments to the Constitution. Such amendments can be initiated by a two-thirds majority vote in both Houses of Congress or, upon request by two-thirds of the states, through a convention convened for this purpose. Subsequently, the proposed amendment must gain ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures or by three-fourths of conventions convened within each state. Typically, modern amendments include a specified timeframe for this process, often spanning several years. Furthermore, the Constitution stipulates that no amendment can deprive a state of equal representation in the Senate without the consent of that state.

In a separate video released on Monday, Governor DeSantis reiterated the need for reform in Washington, emphasizing that change must originate from outside the federal government.

“Excited to announce my collaboration with the Florida Legislature to endorse the following four constitutional amendments under Article V: 1. Implementation of term limits, 2. Mandating a balanced budget, 3. Granting a line-item veto, and 4. Ensuring all laws apply to members of Congress without exceptions,” he announced.

Proud to announce that I am working with the FL Legislature to certify the following four constitutional amendments under Article V:
1. Term limits 2. Balanced budget requirement 3. Line-item veto and 4. Requirement that all laws apply to members of Congress w/o exemptions pic.twitter.com/gkLw1KYTw9

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) January 29, 2024