Contact: Doug Finch, (315) 781-2030
This week we recognized "Constitution Day" - September 17 - marking the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Some 226 years ago, 39 representatives from 13 colonies signed the Constitution and set forth the goals of a nation built on the values of "union," "justice," tranquility" and "liberty." Two years later on September 25, the first Congress approved the Bill of Rights, and sent it for ratification. It gave us freedoms and protections from the abuses of government.
As we reflect upon this year's Constitution Day I ask all of you to consider these questions and examine how we can honor and uphold the spirit of these ideals. For New Yorkers, this is a critical time to be thinking about constitutional freedoms and necessary changes to the State Constitution that may arise in the near future.
THE STATE CONSTITUTION AND WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU
On Thursday at SUNY Cortland, I participated on panel to discuss government reform and the possibility of a New York State Constitutional Convention in 2017. It was an intelligent and important discussion to have - and one that I believe should occur more often.
This fall, voters across the state will weigh in on six constitutional amendments that will potentially change our existing laws and institute significant reforms. Among the items to be considered are proposals that would: allow casino gambling in New York; increase the mandatory retirement age for judges; provide workplace benefits to disabled veterans working as public employees; and address use and activity on Forest Preserve Lands.
There is one amendment to the State Constitution that unfortunately will not be in front of voters in November - a change to the Constitution that would allow pensions to be taken from public officials convicted of corruption crimes. I am proud that our conference sponsored legislation (A.4935, Stec) that calls for this necessary and overdue reform. But the Assembly Majority inexplicably voted against the measure in committee.
As elected officials, we have mechanisms in place to amend the Constitution anytime, but a convention opens up a broader discussion and could lead to more wholesale changes. Now, even though it is years away, we are asking for input about what the public wants from government. What would we address at a convention and how should we change the shape of government?
Visit http://www.effectiveny.org/ for some great information about pending changes to the State Constitution, and the document in general. Both the U.S. Constitution and the State Constitution are there for the benefit of the public. They protect our rights and shape our society. Let's keep the dialogue open.
As New York State looks to the future we have much to celebrate. We have wonderful natural resources, a growing agricultural sector and some great educational institutions. However, we continue to deal with a sluggish economy, rampant public corruption and an unfriendly tax environment. Perhaps taking a look at the fundamental principals governing us, our State Constitution, would be a good way to address these problems. I ask all of you to honor the spirit of our Constitutions, but also consider how we can make them stronger.
What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or email me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.