Senate Panel Backs Term Limits
WASHINGTON — A divided Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday approved a constitutional amendment that would limit senators and representatives to 12 years in each chamber.
The Republican-controlled panel voted, 11 to 6, to send the measure to the full Senate, where it will face an uphill battle when it is debated in several weeks. Two Democratic senators--Dianne Feinstein of California and Herbert Kohl of Wisconsin --joined the Republicans in approving the measure.
The Senate version of the measure would limit House service to six two-year terms and Senate service to two six-year terms for a maximum of 24 years in Congress. Terms served before the amendment becomes part of the Constitution would not be counted.
House Republicans have promised a vote on the amendment during Congress’ first 100 days as part of their “contract with America.” But so far, it has yet to emerge from the House Judiciary Committee.
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