Time Limit to Call The Convention - Initiatives v Oligarchy

Initiatives v Oligarchy

Our Founders' Warning: “Every government degenerates when trusted to the rulers of the people alone. The people themselves are its only safe depositories.” (Thomas Jefferson)

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14: Time Limit to Call The Convention

Congress shall call a Convention as required by Article V of the U.S. Constitution, in a timely manner not to exceed one year from the receipt of applications from two thirds of the States. If Congress prevaricates, procrastinates, or denies the States’ Constitutional rights to hold an Article V Convention, this State shall join with other States to enforce the People’s Rights including those set forth in the Declaration of Independence.

Explanation of Time Limit to Call The Convention

In 1787, Congress called the original convention in under six months from application, so one year is entirely reasonable in today's speeded-up world. The important point about setting a time limit is that if Congress delays over one year, the states can sue in the U.S. Federal Court system and may invoke mandamus.