Allen Brings the topic of a constitutional convention to WMU

On Friday, Oct. 30, John W. Allen, a partner at Varnum LLP presented an open forum to Western Michigan University on the possibility of a constitutional convention for the reform of Michigan’s constitution.

His presentation, “Coming Soon to a Ballot Near You—the Michigan Constitutional Convention: Opportunity in Restructure or Pandora’s Box?” explained the chance of an upcoming convention within the state.

On next year’s ballot, the citizens of Michigan will be able to vote on a reform of the constitution; there are no limitations on what citizens might be able to place within the print.

The issues discussed at the convention would be entirely based on what the voters want.

“Whatever your choices are, whatever you want, it’s a possibility,” Allen said.
Within the last 46 years there have been three chances for Michigan to reform its constitution, but each time residents voted against it.

Allen explained that the chance for a new constitution might be more appropriate during a time when Michigan’s economy is in turmoil and many pressing issues need to be discussed.

Allen said that the constitution is dated, it has had thirty amendments added to it, but as for revision, it has not been fully revised since 1963.

Allen went on to explain if residents were to vote “yes” on a new constitution, a constitutional convention would have to be held.

Six months after voting for the convention, delegates would need to be voted on and expenses would be negotiated.

The State has estimated that thirty to fifty million dollars will be spent on the convention but there is no limit on the expense or the time frame.

In 2008, a movement called “Reform Michigan’s Government Now” was the latest attempt to hold  a convention and was placed on the ballot in November of 2008.

Some of the platforms of this group were reduced legislature, new re-districting, and a reduction of Supreme Court and appellate judges within Michigan, but the movement failed.

Allen provided an idea of what new issues might be brought up if there is a convention. Issues such as the Employee Free Choice Act, the Right to Work law, abortion rights, stem cell research, gun control, reapportionment with state legislature, restriction on local taxes, and education funding.

“Our state is definitely in disrepair, and a reformed constitution might help,” said Buffy Nespodzany, training coordinator and intake consultant at Schneider Hall.

“For me, the biggest issue is the education system: they have to cut out so many things that kids can’t participate in anymore.”

The possibility of this new constitution will not be voted on for another year, but Allen expects to see and hear a lot more about it.

“I’m not here to advocate or disclose a constitutional convention, but to inform people,” said Allen. “It’s hard to become an informed citizen; it takes a lot of time.”

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Posted by HeraldAdmin on Nov 1 2009. Filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

Cody Kimball
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