Breaking Down the Ballot: Should Rhode Island Hold a Constitutional Convention?

The last convention in the state was held in 1986

Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.
rawpixel.com / Felix
Share
Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.
rawpixel.com / Felix
Breaking Down the Ballot: Should Rhode Island Hold a Constitutional Convention?
Copy

On Nov. 5, Rhode Island voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on five statewide ballot questions. In the weeks leading up to Election Day, The Public’s Radio will cover each question in depth.

This time, the focus is on Question One: “Shall there be a convention to amend or revise the Rhode Island Constitution?”

The last convention to amend the state constitution occurred in 1986. Proponents from different ends of the political spectrum say voters should be given the opportunity to amend the constitution — but a coalition led by ACLU Rhode Island, unions and women’s advocacy groups fears a convention could threaten civil rights protections.

Giving their perspective on the issue are John Marion, executive director of the nonprofit government watchdog organization Common Cause Rhode Island; and Patrick Anderson, a reporter for The Providence Journal.

This interview was conducted by The Public’s Radio. You can read the story here.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said he would veto the proposal if it passes, but the city council could override him with a supermajority of 10 out of 15 councilors
Quinn said in a written statement that he did not intend to seek a fourth term, but would finish out the remainder of the year
The director of the Overdose Prevention Center in Providence says the facility has prevented 93 fatal overdoses and helped drive a 33% drop in overdose deaths statewide
The Warwick Democrat says his experience in the courtroom and State House prepares him to take over when Peter Neronha leaves office
Researchers tested therapy and follow-up support for people behind bars in Rhode Island and Michigan — and saw suicide attempts drop 55% after release
The Patriots will take on the Broncos in Denver next Sunday, with the winner advancing to the NFL’s title game in three weeks