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.

‘We found there is a corrosion effect on sharks’ teeth, their whole ecological success in the ocean as the rulers of other populations could be in danger’
Brian Evers, a trucker for freight company XPO, has driven enough miles to circle the earth 80 times without an accident
The state can now work with the bankrupt owner of Roger Williams Medical Center and Our Lady of Fatima hospital to determine what happens next
Gov. McKee had the spotlight this week, but the budget process – and the fate of the millionaires’ tax – has a long way to go
The beloved “Z” returns this weekend with historically accurate renovations, new gathering spaces, and a full slate of performances aimed at reviving downtown and serving as a true community living room
Hosted by the Rhode Island Black Storytellers, the event runs through Jan. 25