The 27th Amendment to the United States Constitution

Overview

The 27th Amendment to the United States Constitution is a unique and fascinating example of the amendment process, as it was ratified on May 7, 1992, over 200 years after it was initially proposed. This amendment addresses the compensation of members of Congress, stipulating that any change in their salary cannot take effect until after the next election of Representatives.

Historical Context

Proposal

• Date Proposed: September 25, 1789
• Proposer: James Madison, one of the Founding Fathers and the fourth President of the United States, initially proposed this amendment as part of the original Bill of Rights.
• Purpose: The amendment aimed to prevent Congress from granting itself immediate pay raises, ensuring that any salary adjustments would only apply after the next election, thus allowing voters to have a say in the matter.

Initial Reception

• Ratification Process: When first proposed, the amendment did not receive the necessary support from the states to be ratified. At the time, only six states ratified it, far short of the three-fourths required.

Revival and Ratification

Renewed Interest

• Revival: Interest in the amendment was revived in the late 20th century, largely due to the efforts of Gregory Watson, a University of Texas undergraduate student. In 1982, Watson wrote a paper arguing that the amendment was still viable for ratification, which sparked a grassroots campaign.
• State Ratifications: Over the next decade, additional states ratified the amendment, culminating in its final ratification by Michigan on May 7, 1992, making it the 27th Amendment.

Ratification Milestone

• Final Ratification: With Michigan’s ratification, the amendment achieved the necessary approval from three-fourths of the states, officially becoming part of the Constitution.

Significance

• Historical Impact: The ratification of the 27th Amendment is notable not only for its content but also for the unprecedented length of time between its proposal and ratification—over two centuries.
• Constitutional Process: It highlights the enduring nature of the U.S. Constitution and the ability of the amendment process to adapt over time, reflecting changing societal values and concerns.
• Public Influence: The amendment’s ratification underscores the power of grassroots movements and individual initiative in effecting constitutional change.

Conclusion

The 27th Amendment serves as a testament to the foresight of the Founding Fathers and the dynamic nature of the U.S. constitutional system. It ensures accountability in congressional compensation, aligning legislative incentives with the electorate’s interests and maintaining a check on congressional power.