Summary of State Legislative Term Limits

Summary

Whether they cap lifetime service or consecutive terms, term limits have become popular in many states, though some have overturned them as unconstitutional. Proponents believe term limits increase voter participation, encourage more women and minorities to run for office, and help bring diversity and fresh ideas to the legislature. Opponents point to research showing that diversity has not increased in term-limit states, and that younger and less experienced legislators tend to rely more on lobbyists for information about proposed bills. Finally, voters disappointed at losing their favorites may fail to go to the polls.

Glossary

consecutive term limits: caps allowing a member of the legislature to serve for only a specified period of time in either the state house or senate and forcing a wait before the member can run again

lifetime ban: a rule that members can serve only one time in the state legislature for the number of years allotted and may not run again

term limits: rules that restrict the length of time a member can serve in the state legislature

This lesson is part of:

American State and Local Governments

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