HI HCR282

Requests that the U.S. Congress propose and send to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment distinguishing the rights of natural persons from the rights of corporations.

Aims to preserve the power of Congress and the states to limit corporate political expenditures and influence on election outcomes.

Responds to concerns about the U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 decision in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission, which the Legislature believes threatens legislative restrictions on corporate political influence.

Notes that while Supreme Court rulings cannot be overturned by legislation, a constitutional amendment would allow clarification of corporate rights versus individual rights.

Received support from the Democratic Party of Hawaii, Common Cause Hawaii, and the League of Women Voters of Hawaii.