Keeping government close to the people is a cornerstone of our American system. Ensuring that the vast majority of power remains and is retained at the state and local level is essential in protecting the rights of the states and of the people. This decentralization is critical and must be protected from the power grabs, usurpations of authority, and unconstitutional mandates from the federal government.

The increasing consolidation of power in the federal government at the expense of the states is leading to a fundamental loss of our liberties and is undermining the sovereignty of the states.

Providing accountability to and enforcement of our state and federal constitutions – by law will help protect the states, and the people, from the centralizing of power in our ever growing federal government. Sovereignty amendments in every state of the Union offer the best defense against an increasingly centralized federal government.

In support of decentralization, we also propose limiting the number of days in legislative session.

“No Man’s Life Liberty or Property is Safe…While the Legislature is in Session”

-       Judge Gideon Tucker, formerly of the New York legislature

"…representatives ought to return home and mix with the people. By remaining at the seat of government, they would acquire the habits of the place, which might differ from those of their constituents."

-       Rhode Island's Roger Sherman during the Constitutional Convention of 1787

Limiting congressional sessions puts limits on legislation, reduces the amount of unnecessary and unwanted laws and allows more time with constituents. Less time in session would permit lawmakers to more thoroughly research potential legislation and their impact, resulting in more meaningful bills.  Conducting the sessions electronically from their home states would save money by reducing administrative and travel costs.  Doing so would also ensure the continuity of government in the event of an attack on Washington D.C.