by Representative Jim Whorton
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During the summer of 2006, I shared an opinion about an excessive number of proposals to change our Missouri Constitution. I’m not sure if I had a full appreciation for the lack of respect for our Constitution, which is currently exhibited by Missouri citizens. I am especially surprised by our State Legislators. Memory serves me that we considered about eight proposals for change last year. Some originated with the Legislature and some were offered through the petition process.
I have always believed our Constitution should be protected with the same degree of concern that we rely on the Constitution to protect us. I further believed that eight proposed changes in one year were probably not warranted. Well, get ready for another round. We have no fewer than 58 proposed constitutional changes introduced in our current legislative session.
I have a very deep concern for at least 13 of the proposals because they would change, in some way, the relationship of state government to those whom the government is supposed to serve – you, the voters. A summary of those proposals includes the following:
HJR 1: Courts would not be allowed to direct state or local government regarding budgeting or revenue issues.
HJR 2: Reduces members of Missouri House from 163 to 137.
HJR 4: Require a 60% majority to approve constitutional amendments.
HJR 5: Doubles signatures required needed to place constitutional amendment on the ballot by initiative; triples the signatures needed to place statutory change on ballot by initiative.
HJR 12: Impeachment proceedings would be tried in the Senate rather than Supreme Court.
HJR 14: Establishes term limits for Attorney General and State Auditor.
HJR 15: Limits some judges to eight years in office and requires nominees to the Supreme Court be confirmed by the Senate.
HJR 18: Requires two-thirds majority to approve constitutional amendments; bars paid signature-gatherers on initiative petitions.
HJR 27: Relates to rules for boundaries of legislative redistricting.
SJR 11: Requires two-thirds majority for constitutional amendments.
SJR 15: Increases term limits from eight to 12 years.
SJR 21: Increases term limits from eight to 12 years and reduces House from 163 to 101 members.
SJR 28: Requires photo identification to vote in elections.
These are only proposals at this time, hopefully few, if any, will make it. Additional details can be found on the internet at www.house.mo.gov for the Missouri House of Representatives or www.senate.mo.gov for the Missouri Senate.
With the coming of spring, we see the coming of students to our Capitol. Recent visitors have included several students, parents, teachers and School Board members of the Mennonite School of Jamesport, as well as the Government classes from North Mercer R-III, Newtown-Harris R-III, Princeton R-V and Cainsville R-I. Also visiting were FFA members from Daviess and Sullivan counties. Students are probably our favorite visitors to our office – they always have so much excitement, that it is especially uplifting.
If we can assist you in any way, or if you have concerns regarding any House or Senate bills, please feel free to contact Pam at the Jefferson City office. Our number there is 573-751-1649 and the email address is [email protected]. You can also contact me at the district office at 660-359-3988.