(The Center Square) — A coalition of unions, civil liberties and reproductive rights groups are pushing back against Rhode Island’s plans to hold a constitutional convention, even though it’s unclear what would be taken up at the once-in-a-decade meeting.
At a legislative hearing on Wednesday, lawmakers met to hammer out final plans for a ballot question in the November elections asking voters if the state should hold a constitutional convention.
“Rhode Island’s Constitution is a living and breathing document that charts the course of our daily lives,” state Rep. Robert Craven, a North Kingstown Democrat and co-chair of the panel, said in remarks at Wednesday’s inaugural committee hearing. “Times change and so do the issues the public deeply cares about.”
It’s not yet clear what would be on the agenda for a constitutional convention next year if voters approve the move. With Democrats holding a super majority in the state Legislature, possible amendments might include enshrining the right to get an abortion and other liberal proposals, political observers say.