A discussion guide, one in a series on constitutional reform issues developed by The Jefferson Foundation as part of the Jefferson Meeting on the Constitution project, examines proposals to change congressional terms. The first section discusses representation and the sovereignty of the people through the issues of actual and virtual representation. The second section investigates terms of office and safeguarding liberties through the issues of the 2-year term, limits on tenure, and the nature of the legislator. The third section examines congressional tenure and legislative demands in the 20th century and lists arguments for and against lengthening terms in the House of Representatives and arguments for and against limiting congressional tenure. Congressional reform and other approaches since 1946 are examined. The document concludes with excerpts from congressional testimony on the 4-year term and a brief legislative history of congressional tenure. (RSL)