[Extremely Extreme Extremist]

Re-read the Constitution. No new states shall be formed within an existing one.

[backtothestreets]

Have read the Constitution more times than I could ever possibly count. Every time I read the section regarding new states, it always has this statement within the clause you referred to; "without the consent of the legislatures of the states concerned as well as of the Congress."

Maine was formed from Massachusetts, and West Virginia formed from Virginia.

Congress gave such approval to split the state when California was admitted to the Union, and there is no expiration on that provision. Also, California voters preempt the legislature, and assume the power of the legislature on initiative matters under the state constitution.