LR14 advances to enrollment and review

LR 14 would make Nebraska state 16 out of 34 needed to form a convention of states

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN)- LR14 was voted to move on to the next steps, but even if it gets passed, Nebraska would only be State 16 out of the 34 needed in order for the convention of states to form.  Senators in favor believe it would give the people power to regulate the Federal Government.  Whereas those opposed are worried they could lose their rights.

“I’m opposed to it because it’s dangerous. It’s dangerous in the sense that once this convention is called, there is no way to limit the scope of what the convention can address in the constitution. So that means our constitutional rights regarding our first amendment rights, second amendment rights, regarding reproductive rights, all of those things would be opened up for debate despite the proponents messaging that it wouldn’t be,” said Senator Adam Morfeld.

Senator Steve Halloran stated more than once during the session on Monday, that the convention of states can not amend the constitution.

“Just to clarify, article 5 does not allow either Congress or a convention of states to ratify or amend the constitution. Only the states can ratify an amendment. All we can do is propose and then the states dispose of by ratifying or not,” said Senator Steve Halloran.

This concept can be a little confusing, many senators spoke about it during their debate.

“I’m also continuing to learn, this is a very fascinating topic,” said Senator Machaela Cavanaugh.

Senator Halloran created the word F.U.D. which stands for fear, uncertainty, and doubt.  Halloran feels Senator Morfeld was attempting to cause more confusion with his proposed amendment AM 1545.

“Senator Morfeld purposely put in what is commonly referred to as a poisonous amendment. A poisonous amendment is an amendment designed to kill a bill or resolution,” said Senator Halloran.

Amendment AM 1545 ultimately did not pass, but LR 14 did advance to the next step of enrollment and review.