Upcoming panel to discuss possible constitutional convention

Should Michigan hold a constitutional convention? That question will be the focus of an upcoming panel discussion featuring Chief 14A District Judge Kirk Tabbey and Henry Woolson, founder of the advocacy group Energize Michigan.

The discussion will probe a variety of issues surrounding a 2010 ballot proposal to overhaul state government. A constitutional convention is a gathering of Michigan legislators to write a new constitution or revising an existing constitution.

“On November 2, Michigan voters will be asked to decide whether the state should do away with its current constitution and write a new one,” said Dr. Diane Hartmus, associate professor of political science and director of Oakland’s Master of Public Administration program.

This discussion will raise awareness and draw attention to a proposal that hasn't received much attention in the media, yet still represents a significant issue for Michigan citizens.

This proposal comes up every 16 years, with the last vote occurring in 1994. The last time Michigan actually held a constitutional convention was 1962; so many current voters in the Oakland community will not have experienced the process before.

“It’s a question of considerable importance, with major issues involved for all Michiganders,” Dr. Hartmus continued. “This panel will present opposing views on the question, allowing voters to gather information that will inform their vote.”

The two panelists will offer opposing viewpoints, with Woolson arguing in favor of holding a state constitutional convention and Tabbey arguing against.

The panel discussion is free to all OU students and community members, and will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 27, in the Oakland Center Oakland Room.

The event is sponsored by Pi Alpha Alpha, the Master of Public Administration program and the Department of Political Science. Light refreshments will be served.