Purpose of the Bill

The bill establishes a process for selecting delegates from Minnesota to attend a convention that may propose amendments to the United States Constitution under Article V. The aim is to ensure that Minnesota has representation at such amendment conventions, if and when they occur.

Main Provisions

• Delegate Selection: The bill outlines criteria for selecting five delegates, with appointments made by Minnesota's legislative leaders.
• Qualifications: Delegates must be U.S. citizens and Minnesota residents for at least five years. They must be at least 25 years old, registered voters, and not recent lobbyists, federal employees, or elected federal officials. They also must not have recent felony convictions and must be current or former Minnesota legislators.
• Delegate Instructions: Delegates are required to follow specific guidelines, such as not advocating for certain changes to voting rules or constitutional liberties. They take an oath affirming their adherence to these rules.
• Advisory Committee: An advisory committee of legislative leaders oversees and can recall delegates if they exceed their authority. The committee also has the power to provide guidance and monitor the convention proceedings.
• Vacancies and Interim Delegates: Procedures are in place to appoint interim delegates if a delegate position becomes vacant.
• Remuneration: Delegates receive compensation similar to state house members, but they cannot accept gifts over $200, unless the gift is from family.
• Control and Discipline: The advisory committee can suspend or remove delegates violating their commission, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance.

Significant Changes

• Establishes a legal structure for Minnesota to participate in future Article V amendment conventions, which was previously undefined.
• Introduces specific qualifications and restrictions for delegates to ensure suitable representation and prevent conflicts of interest.

Relevant Terms

Article V, amendment convention, delegates, Minnesota legislature, advisory committee, oversight, delegate qualifications, civil penalty, constitutional amendment, delegate instructions, oath of office, commission resolution, interim delegate, emoluments clause, legislative leaders.