The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss significant concerns surrounding the potential for a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The meeting highlighted fears regarding the possibility of a "runaway convention," where delegates, despite having a limited mandate, could propose amendments that diverge from their original purpose.

One speaker emphasized the challenges of passing legislation in Texas, noting that even well-supported bills struggle to reach the governor's desk. This point was made to illustrate the safeguards in place that would likely prevent any radical changes from being ratified, even if a convention were to convene. The speaker argued that any proposals emerging from such a convention would ultimately require ratification by the states, suggesting that Texas's opposition would significantly hinder any radical amendments from gaining traction.

Another participant, Dr. Costa, raised concerns about the implications of an Article V convention, referencing the rescission of convention applications by ten states in the past nine years. He pointed out that prominent figures, including Glenn Beck, have reversed their support for such conventions, citing the risks they pose to the constitutional framework. Dr. Costa drew parallels to historical instances in Venezuela and Chile, where similar conventions led to significant governmental overhauls, warning that the current push for a convention could threaten the integrity of the U.S. constitutional republic.

The discussion also touched on the conflicting messages from convention proponents, who advocate for a limited convention while simultaneously seeking broader powers from Congress. Dr. Costa concluded by noting that previous attempts to advance convention resolutions in Texas have faced significant obstacles, reinforcing the notion that the state's legislative body remains cautious about pursuing this path.

The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over the risks and benefits of an Article V convention, with committee members expressing a range of opinions on the matter. As the committee continues to evaluate this issue, the implications for Texas and the broader national landscape remain a focal point of concern.