Senate File No. 495 is a legislative bill put forward in the state of Minnesota that outlines a method for choosing delegates to a constitutional convention if one is called by the U.S. Congress under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. According to this bill, Minnesota would send five delegates to any such convention. These delegates would be appointed as follows: one each by the senate majority leader, the senate minority leader, the speaker of the house, and the minority leader of the house of representatives. These four selected appointees would then collaboratively choose a fifth delegate unanimously. If they cannot agree on a fifth delegate, Minnesota would send only four delegates.

The bill also allows for each appointing authority to select an alternate delegate who would step in if the original delegate is unable to fulfill their duties. If a fifth delegate is appointed unanimously, an alternate for this delegate can also be selected in the same manner.

The appointments of both delegates and alternates must be finalized no later than 30 days prior to the date Congress calls for the convention, or 30 days before any deadline set by Congress for proposing amendments.

This bill establishes a clear and structured approach for Minnesota's participation in a potential constitutional convention, ensuring representation from both major political parties and a collaborative selection process for an additional delegate.