Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Norman, Ralph [R-SC-5]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 6, 2025
Bottom line
This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to impose term limits of three terms for Representatives and two terms for Senators, with current members' prior service not counting towards these limits.
What it actually does
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to limit the number of terms a Member of Congress may serve. It would restrict Representatives to three terms and Senators to two terms, with specific rules for counting partial terms served to fill vacancies. Importantly, terms served before the amendment's ratification would not count towards these limits.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that term limits are essential to curb career politicians, foster greater accountability, and bring fresh perspectives to Congress. They contend that limiting terms would make elected officials more responsive to their constituents' needs rather than special interests, reducing the influence of entrenched political power and promoting a more dynamic legislative body.
Opponents contend
Opponents argue that term limits restrict voter choice and lead to a significant loss of institutional knowledge and legislative expertise within Congress. They suggest that removing experienced lawmakers could empower unelected staff, lobbyists, and the executive branch, making Congress less effective at addressing complex national challenges and diminishing its role as a co-equal branch of government.
The bill text is exceptionally short and easy to read, allowing for quick comprehension of its core proposal.
Article--, Section 1
House of Representatives Term Limits
This section proposes to amend the Constitution to limit any person from being eligible for election to the House of Representatives if they have already served three terms. For the purpose of this limit, serving to fill a vacancy for more than one year would count as a full term.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures fresh perspectives, reduces the influence of career politicians, and increases accountability to constituents by preventing long-term entrenchment in office.
Critics contend
Critics contend that this provision would lead to a significant loss of valuable experience and expertise in the House, potentially empowering unelected staff and lobbyists who retain institutional knowledge.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for new ideas and responsiveness against the value of institutional knowledge and legislative experience within the lower chamber of Congress.
Article--, Section 2
Senate Term Limits
This section proposes to amend the Constitution to limit any person from being eligible for election or appointment to the Senate if they have already served two terms. Similar to the House provision, serving to fill a vacancy for more than three years would count as a full term.
Article--, Section 3
Prospective Application of Term Limits
This section clarifies that any terms served by a Member of Congress before the date this constitutional amendment is ratified will not be counted when determining their eligibility for future elections or appointments under the new term limits.