Call For Limited Constitutional Convention To Fix Broken State Government

Rep. Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) and Sen. John H. Eichelberger Jr. (R-Blair) Tuesday unveiled a bicameral proposal to host a limited constitutional convention in Pennsylvania, similar to the one which occurred in 1967.

“Pennsylvania citizens are rightfully frustrated with our broken state government and are demanding major changes to the way state leaders conduct business,” Rep. Bloom said. “Our proposal will give the voters – those who pay state government’s bills – the chance to hasten major reforms via a constitutional convention.”

House Bill 1967 and Senate Bill 867 would call for a limited constitutional convention, which could amend the state constitution to address the size of the Legislature, the state budget process and other areas.  Specifically--

-- Sections 3, 4, 8, 16 of Article II which pertain to terms, size or compensation of the General Assembly;

-- Article III, Sections 13, 22, 24 and Subarticle A relating to amendments of legislation, no-bid contracts, and spending without an enacted budget;

-- Article IV as it pertains to the office of Lt. Governor may also be a subject of proposed changes; and

-- Sections 10, 17, and 18 of Article V pertaining to the judiciary related to supervision of courts, work outside court services and discipline of members.

“Given the recent budget stalemates and the issues created, along with many other chronic questions from the public, now is the time to hold the constitutional convention,” Sen. Eichelberger said.

The lawmakers’ proposal would first allow voters to decide whether or not there should be a constitutional convention via referendum. If approved, the 163-member convention would be formed.

“Convention delegates would vote on recommended changes to the state’s Constitution, but the final decision would really be left up to Pennsylvania voters,” Rep. Bloom said. “A convention would be an opportunity for citizens to take a very direct role in historic government change.”

All final recommendations would require majority support from the 163 delegates. Those recommendations would then be placed on the ballot for approval or rejection by the voters.
NewsClip:
Murphy: Lawmakers: Time For Constitutional Convention to Fix State Government