By Mary Ellen Probanski
We are living through an extremely politically divisive time in the history of our country. U.S. citizens of every political persuasion are at odds with each other and are taking sides. We all firmly believe in our own point of view, and very little or nothing can sway one side or the other.
What if I told you that there is a middle ground, a truly nonpartisan solution for everyday citizens to remedy the current ills? There actually is a solution that is bigger than the problem. It is a bipartisan solution that will return the power in this country back to the states, whether they be liberal, conservative, or in the middle.
It is called the Convention of States Project. A grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that is utilizing ordinary citizens who truly care about their country and their state to transform the chaos and rein in all aspects of the federal government.
Who is behind this thing? The American people. The Convention of States Project is first and foremost a movement of grassroots citizens who are fed up with business as usual in D.C. We’re funded by thousands of everyday patriots who have committed their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to protecting liberty for future generations.
Article V of the U.S. Constitution gives states the power to call a Convention of States to propose amendments. It takes 34 states to call the convention and 38 to ratify any amendments that are proposed.
Our convention would only allow the states to discuss amendments that, “limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and place term limits on federal officials.”
So, are we making any progress? You better believe it! Since the Project launched in 2013, we’ve been spreading like wildfire. With over four million supporters nationwide, we have petition signers in every single state house district across America. We’re actively working in all 50 states to pass the Convention of States application!
On September 15, 1787, George Mason of Virginia (referred to in Madison’s notes as Col. Mason), was alarmed that in the text of Article V Congress would have sole power to propose amendments.
Mason insisted, as he did earlier in June, that the states have the same authority. Mason explained that an oppressive Congress would never agree to propose amendments necessary to restrain a rogue, tyrannical legislature. By the time the convention reached its final days in mid-September, the amendment provision had been added as Article V.
It is noteworthy to point out that this process does not call for a Constitutional Convention. The language specifies calling a convention for the purpose of “proposing amendments” to the existing Constitution. It would still require three-fourths of the states (38) to ratify any amendment proposed in this convention.
It is now time for the states to take back their rightful power. I invite you to join us. Take action today by signing the petition so your state legislators will know that you support our mission. Already signed the petition? Consider volunteering a little (or a lot) of your time to help promote our cause. Visit conventionofstates.com to sign the petition and for more information.
Mary Ellen Probanski is Convention of States Regional Captain, NYC & Long Island, State Grassroots Coordinator. This article was published in CoS Blog on February 10, 2020. For more information or to get involved with the Convention of States Project contact Mary Ellen at (646) 637-2824 or maryellen.probanski@cosaction.com
