OU forum outlined the issues behind Proposal 1

Panelists speak at a forum held at Oakland University. The speakers discussed the issues behind Proposal 1.

An Oakland University forum recently addressed the issues behind Proposal 1, which determines whether or not Michigan should hold a constitutional convention. The panel discussion featured Chief 14A District Judge Kirk Tabbey and Henry Woolson, founder of the advocacy group Energize Michigan.

Organizers called the event a great success. Both sides were well represented, and the forum had a large group of attendees, including students, faculty, alumni, and community members.

The discussion identified a variety of the 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 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.

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

The event was sponsored by Pi Alpha Alpha, the Master of Public Administration program and the Department of Political Science.