Should Congress decide how much power the federal government should have or should the states for this convention process decide?
That's what Convention of States Action Co-Founder and Senior Advisor Michael Farris asked New Hampshire representatives on Friday afternoon.
"I think it's high time that the states say we're going to do it, we'll do it ourselves," Farris declared.
The Resolution calling for an Article V Convention of States is being considered by the New Hampshire House Committee on State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs. Over 50 people attended the three-hour committee hearing surrounding what is known as HCR 1.
Comparing the U.S. Congress to an "amendments convention," Farris brilliantly explained that a Convention of States would be an opportunity for the people to propose amendments to the Constitution just as the legislative branch can do every single day they're in session.
With 10 kids and 29 grandkids, Farris asserted that discipline is a central part of keeping both children and the government in check.
"I have 10 kids and 29 grandkids. You take over America your way, I'll take over America my way," Farris joked. "Think of what would happen if I never disciplined my 10 children. They would grow up to be pretty rowdy and inappropriate... For over 200 years now, the parents – who are the states – have never used Article V to discipline the runaway of federal power. And this convention needs to be called to show the Congress, show the federal government, there are limits here," added Farris.
About 20 people gave testimony on the topic, including many devoted grassroots activists on the COSA New Hampshire team.
"If men were angels, no government would be necessary," said State Director Al Brandano, citing James Madison. "You may ask me why, I ask you why not."
One of the resolution's co-sponsors reasoned that fundamental changes are needed to protect future generations; the voice of We the People has been overrun by corporations; we are nearing $32 trillion in debt.
We've allowed our federal government to be so involved and intertwined with private institutions that our freedoms have slipped away.
Now we eagerly wait for the committee to take a vote on the Resolution next Friday.
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