On Nov. 7, 2017, New York state voters will decide whether to hold a state constitutional convention. The New York State Constitution mandates that every 20 years, voters must decide on a refrendum whether to approve a convention.
In 1997, voters rejected a convention largely based on strong opposition from CSEA and other organizations who share similar values.
In recent years, some elected officials, voters and interest groups have expressed support for holding a constitutional convention because of frustration with recent political scandals and misguided state policies.
CSEA is again strongly opposed to a convention, and we will join other organizations in educating voters about why a convention isn’t the answer.
What is a constitutional convention?
The New York State Constitutional Convention is a meeting of three delegates from each of the state’s 63 Senate districts, plus 15 at-large delegates. The meeting takes place in Albany, and delegates have the ability to amend any part of the state’s constitution. Any changes agreed to by a majority of delegates will then go to the voters for approval. Any approved changes will then become part of the state constitution.
When would it take place?
If voters approve the referendum in 2017, the convention would be held in April 2019.
Why is this important?
A convention could result in minor tweaks, or major changes, to the state constitution. CSEA members and retirees rely on the state constitution to protect our rights and our work. A convention could open the door for losing many of the rights and protections that help secure our futures.
What’s at stake?
The constitution protects many of the rights and benefits that are important to all New Yorkers. Any changes to the constitution could jeopardize rights and benefits that are now protected, including:
- Pension benefits
- Organizing into unions
- Collective bargaining
- Contract rights
- Wages
- Workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health
- Civil rights and social welfare
- Civil service appointments and promotions (now based on “merit and fitness”)
- Public education
- Environmental protection
Why else is this convention a bad idea?
It’s expensive. When the last constitutional convention was held in 1967, it cost taxpayers about $6.5 million. In 2015 dollars, that totals more than $46 million!
The 1967 convention also featured many delegates who were already political insiders. If a convention is approved, delegates would be elected in 2018. Delegates to the convention set their own rules, hire their own staff and get the pay of a state legislator (at least $79,000), plus pension credit. There is no time limit on how long a convention could last. All of these factors contribute to the taxpayer cost.
Another factor: voters may reject amendments passed during the convention, potentially making it a waste of time and money.
Is there another way to change the state constitution?
Yes, and it’s easy. Bills can be passed through the state legislature to propose as questions on the ballots during general elections. The state constitution has been amended in this manner more than 200 times since 1894, most recently in 2013 when voters decided on several ballot questions, including expanding casinos in New York.
How can I help stop it?
We urge you to share this information with other members, your families and friends because it’s never too soon to be informed. We also urge you to reach out to your state legislators and tell them there are other ways to fix problems in our state than a constitutional convention we can’t afford.
