Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring Members of Congress to demonstrate competence in American civics.

Sponsor: Wesley Hunt (Republican-TX)January 30, 2026

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Requires Members of Congress to pass a civics test to serve in office.

This bill proposes a change to the Constitution that would require all Representatives and Senators to pass a civics exam. This means anyone wanting to serve in Congress would need to show they understand the U.S. government, though they could take the test after being elected if needed. The exam would be free and offered regularly.

What Would Change

Currently, there is no requirement for Members of Congress to demonstrate their knowledge of American civics. If this bill becomes law and is ratified, all Representatives and Senators would need to pass a civics exam to serve, or within a grace period after election or appointment.

Key Provisions

Requires Congress to create a free civics examination for its members every ten years.
Requires Congress to publish the questions and answers for the civics exam.
Requires Representatives and Senators to pass this civics exam to serve in Congress.
Lets newly elected or appointed members take the exam after they are in office if they haven't passed it yet.
Gives Congress the power to make laws to enforce this requirement without needing the President's approval.

View on Congress.gov

HJRES 146 · 119th Congress · January 30, 2026 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 9/10

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring Members of Congress to demonstrate competence in American civics.

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity