Committee backs resolution calling for Article V convention to propose congressional term limits amid heated debate

House Concurrent Resolution 2041 asks Congress to call an Article V convention limited to proposing an amendment to impose term limits on members of Congress. After extensive testimony and spirited debate, the House Judiciary Committee gave the resolution a due‑pass recommendation by a 6–3 vote.

Supporters’ arguments Resolution sponsor Speaker Montenegro told the committee that term limits enjoy broad voter support in Arizona and argued state action is necessary because Congress will not limit itself. Nick Tambolitis (Tambolitis/Tambolitis, as stated in testimony), representing US Term Limits, argued states historically have used the threat of a convention to induce Congress to propose amendments; he cited the 17th Amendment as an example.

Supporters emphasized restoring citizen accountability, reducing career incumbency and opening seats to new candidates. Several members and witnesses said support spans political affiliations.

Opponents’ arguments Opponents — including longtime convention skeptics and public speakers who called Article V a vehicle that could “run away” and endanger constitutional protections such as the Second Amendment — urged caution. Witnesses warned of the lack of statutory guidance on selecting delegates, limiting topics and preventing a convention from exceeding its mandate. Legal and constitutional concerns were a central focus.

Committee debate and vote Committee members expressed a range of views. Some said Article V is an appropriate tool when Congress refuses to act; others argued the risk to core constitutional protections is too great. Several members said they would support the resolution while seeking accompanying state‑level laws (so‑called “faithful‑delegate” or ratification safeguards) to limit risks. The committee voted 6 ayes, 3 nays to recommend HCR 2041.

Ending: The resolution now moves to the floor. Supporters view it as a constitutional, nonpartisan mechanism to produce congressional term limits; opponents say the Article V process is under‑specified and could produce unintended constitutional changes.