Amending the Constitution by the Convention Method


 

Publication Date: March 1988

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): James L. Gattuso

Research Area: Law and ethics

Keywords: Political philosophy

Type: Report

Abstract:

The convening of a constitutional convention is, of course, a serious and complex matter. It must not be taken lightly. Nevertheless, the convention clause of Article V is an integral and necessary part of the constitutional system of checks and balances. Americans and their representatives in state legislatures and in Congress should not allow misinformation to divert them from employing this wisely crafted provision. When Congress fails to propose needed amendments to the Constitution, policy makers should not hesitate to put it to use.