2-5-14 constitutional convention

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin legislative committee has approved a resolution calling for a convention of states to craft a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  It takes a two-thirds vote in Congress to propose an amendment for states' ratification. Congress also must grant a request from two-thirds of the states to convene a convention to propose an amendment. Ratification requires approval from three-quarters of state legislatures.  The tea party has been making a national push to convene a convention to propose an amendment requiring the federal government to balance its budget. Wisconsin Republicans have drafted a resolution asking Congress for such a convention.

The Republican-controlled Assembly Campaigns and Elections Committee approved the resolution 6-2 Tuesday. The resolution goes next to the full Assembly.