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Committee clears amended resolution to tidy Kansas constitutional amendment language
Summary
The Federal and State Affairs committee approved SCR 16/17 as amended, removing references to ratifying amendments and clarifying when a ballot question is presented; proponents said the changes are housekeeping to align state language with practice and not to alter federal rules.
The Senate Federal and State Affairs committee voted to pass SCR 16/17 favorably as amended, a resolution that cleans up language in the Kansas Constitution’s amendment procedures.
Jason, the committee adviser, told members the balloon amendment strikes language referring to ratifying amendments and calls for a convention of states, narrowing section 13 to address the legislative requirement for passage of bills and clarifying explanatory language presented to voters. The amendment also removes a clause that could have presented the question at a special primary date and instead makes clear the question would appear on the general election ballot in November 2026.
Senator Murphy, who moved the measure out of committee, provided historical context and circulated research indicating how the two‑thirds requirement came to be reflected in state practice. He and other senators emphasized the change affects Kansas’ internal language and does not alter federal constitutional requirements governing amendment and ratification.
Senator Murphy moved that the committee pass SCR 16/17 as amended; the motion was seconded and the committee approved the measure by voice vote. SCR 16/17 now goes to the full Senate floor.
