\nConstitutional Convention Clearinghouse<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n<\/strong>Information Related to\u00a0New York’s Nov. 7, 2017 Constitutional Convention Referendum<\/h4>\n <\/p>\n
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This section has not been maintained and is only current as of Sept. 1, 2017.
\n<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nCollections of more recent convention videos can be found at Citizens Union<\/a> and NYPeoplesConvention.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Book Reviews Related To The Nov. 7 Referendum” background_layout=”light” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”3.0.83″]<\/p>\n
Book Reviews\u00a0Related To The<\/strong><\/h2>\nNovember 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Roberts, Sam, New York\u2019s Overstuffed Constitution: Voters Face a Window for Reforms<\/a>, New York Times<\/em>, March 24, 2017.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Blog News Related To The Nov. 7 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Blog News Related To The<\/strong><\/h2>\nNovember 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Somerstein, Nicole, Will New York Decide to Hold a Constitutional Convention?<\/a>, BallotReady, April 25, 2017.<\/p>\n3 Reasons to Vote in the NY State Constitution Referendum<\/a>,\u00a0Manhattan Neighborhood Network<\/em>, March 12, 2017.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Good Government Groups Letters to Legislature or Governor” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Good Government Group Letters to the Legislature or Governor<\/strong><\/h2>\nRegarding a State Constitutional Convention<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Good Government Group Letters” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
Groups Comment on Governor\u2019s Proposed Budget Relating to Constitutional Convention Reforms<\/a>,\u00a0March 21, 2016.<\/span><\/p>\nReforming Constitutional Convention Delegate Selection and Convention Rules<\/a>, November 23, 2015.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Broadcast Media Documentaries on the November 7, 2017 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Broadcast Media Documentaries\u00a0on the<\/strong><\/h2>\nNovember 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Constitutional Convention Forum<\/h3>\n
Constitutional Convention Forum<\/a>, Mountain Lake PBS, May 26, 2017.<\/p>\nElection Day may still be months away but many political leaders and watchdog groups in Albany are gearing up for a debate over a referendum question that\u2019ll be on the ballot this November that supporters say could improve how state government works, and that opponents fear could make unnecessary changes to the New York State Constitution.<\/p>\n
Every 20 years New Yorkers can vote on whether to hold what\u2019s called a constitutional convention, where a commission considers revisions to the State Constitution. While supporters argue it is the only way to push through major reforms that the legislature won\u2019t address, holding a convention opens up the entire constitution to review, which is why critics oppose it. They worry revisions could roll back rights for workers, aid for the needy, and wilderness protections for the Adirondacks.<\/p>\n
This week, we welcome a panel of scholars and experts to delve into the pros and cons of holding a constitutional convention. Joining the discussion are Christopher Bopst, a constitutional scholar; Neil Woodworth, the CEO and Executive Director of the Adirondack Mountain Club; John Sheehan, Director of Communications at Adirondack Council; and Fred Monroe, the former supervisor for the Town of Chester and the Executive Director of the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board.<\/p>\n
Finger Lakes TV Public Access Interview with Hank Dullea<\/h3>\n
See Murphy, Mike,\u00a0Program on NY Constitutional Convention to air on\u00a0Finger Lakes TV<\/a>, Victor Post, January 31, 2017.<\/p>\nTo be aired on the FLTV On The Road program. \u00a0However, as of February 5, 2017 it couldn’t be found on its website.<\/p>\n
WCNY’s 6-Part Series, Issues Regarding a Constitutional Convention in NYS<\/h3>\n
The parts will be gradually released between May 2016 and November 2017, and available via streaming at\u00a0wcny.org\/ConnectNY<\/a>.<\/p>\nSummary:<\/strong> Every 20 years, the state constitution sets a statewide referendum on whether to convene a constitutional convention. The next vote arrives November 7, 2017. Through 2016 and into 2017, WCNY will develop a campaign of content exploring this important expectation of the electorate, including a series of six episodes of Connect: NY so that voters are able to make an informed decision. \u00a0Episodes of the six part series will air Mondays at 9 p.m. on WCNY, and on local PBS stations across New York.<\/p>\n
\nSummary\u00a0Programming Guide<\/h3>\n
\n<\/h4>\nPart I<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 107, May 16, 2016 Re-Imagining New York: NY\u2019s Constitutional Convention \u2013 Halley\u2019s Comet of Change<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\nNote:\u00a0A remarkable factual mistake near the opening of Part I is that New York’s first constitution is still its current constitution.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\nIn November of 2017, New Yorkers will have the chance to vote on whether or not to hold a Constitutional Convention.\u00a0 In the first installment of our series on this critical vote, we discuss the problems that exist within the State\u2019s Constitution as well as the risks that are inherent when the document is opened up to change.<\/p>\n
Part II<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 108, June 20, 2016 Re-Imagining New York: Environment<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nThere is no more famous provision in the New York State Constitution than the one protecting the Adirondack Park as \u201cForever Wild\u201d.\u00a0 In the third installment of our series on the pros & cons of a Constitutional Convention, we will discuss the history and practical implications of this unique constitutional promise.\u00a0 Why, for example, should residents of New York City get to vote on a mining provision in the Park?\u00a0 Plus, we debated other environmental questions.<\/p>\n
Part III<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 109, July 11, 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Crime & Punishment<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nCould a constitutional convention fix New York\u2019s criminal justice system? Learn about the tragic story of Samuel Harrell, a mentally ill prisoner at the Fishkill Correctional Facility whose 2015 death was ruled a homicide and is still under investigation. A panel of experts addressed the issues that stem from the case, and discuss how a state constitutional convention could address the injustices that may have occurred.<\/p>\n
Part IV<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 110: Aug. 22, 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Power and Ethics<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nIn the last 10 years, more than 30 current or former state officeholders in New York have been convicted of crimes, or accused of wrongdoing. \u00a0Could a Constitutional Convention help sweep out the bad apples?\u00a0 How about take money out of politics?\u00a0 Recalibrate power?\u00a0 Or institute term limits?\u00a0 The answer to all of the above is YES \u2013 but it comes with risks.<\/p>\n
Part V<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 111, Sept. 19, 2016 | Re-Imagining New York: Education<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nThis episode introduces the idea that a Constitutional Convention in New York could impact the issues surrounding how children are equitably\u00a0educated, how the\u00a0education system is funded and why collective bargaining plays an important role.<\/p>\n
Part VI<\/strong><\/h4>\nConnect: NY 112, Oct. 17, 2016 Re-imagining New York: From Imagination to Reality<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nWhat happens if New Yorkers vote \u2018Yes\u2019 to a Constitutional Convention in 2017? What are the risks? What positive steps could come out of a convention?<\/p>\n
\nDetailed Programming Guide<\/h3>\n
\n\u2018Connect:NY\u2019 series explores the next constitutional convention<\/h2>\n\nMay 13, 2016![\"Print](\"http:\/\/www.wcny.org\/wp-content\/themes\/wcny\/images\/print-icon.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery 20 years, the NY state constitution mandates a statewide referendum on whether to convene a constitutional convention. The next vote arrives Nov. 7, 2017, when voters determine whether to hold a convetion. New York\u2019s 50,000-word constitution currently has 225 amendments and was last amended in 1938.<\/p>\n
To help voters make informed decisions, WCNY will explore this important opportunity to reshape government beginning with a series of six episodes of \u201cConnect:NY.\u201d WCNY\u2019s News and Public Affairs Director Susan Arbetter will host monthly conversations on six of the key aspects of the issue on \u201cConnect:NY.\u201d Stakeholders in government, labor, the environment, law and business will join scholars and educators will join a lively, in-studio presentation that will be produced from WCNY\u2019s Broadcast and Education Center.<\/p>\n
\n\n\nThe program features the following six upcoming topics:<\/strong><\/p>\nMay 16 at 9 p.m. | New York\u2019s Constitutional Convention: Halley\u2019s Comet of Change<\/strong><\/p>\nIn November of 2017, New Yorkers will have the chance to vote on whether or not to hold a Constitutional Convention. In the first installment of our series on this critical vote, we discuss the problems that exist within the State\u2019s Constitution as well as the risks that are inherent when the document is opened up to change.<\/p>\n
June | Re-imagining New York: Environment<\/strong><\/p>\nThere is no more famous provision in the New York State Constitution than the one protecting the Adirondack Park as \u201cForever Wild\u201d. In the third installment of our series on the pros & cons of a Constitutional Convention, we will discuss the history and practical implications of this unique constitutional promise. Why, for example, should residents of New York City get to vote on a mining provision in the Park? Plus, we will debate other environmental questions.<\/p>\n
\n\n\nIssues:<\/p>\n
\n- Has \u201cForever Wild\u201d worked? What lessons from it can we apply to other parts of the constitution?<\/li>\n
- Is there anything about \u201cForever Wild\u201d that needs to be tweaked?<\/li>\n
- Could the constitution do more to promote conservation (e.g., carbon tax or mandate to reducecarbon emissions to a certain level)?<\/li>\n
- Should fresh drinking water be considered a constitutional right?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
July 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Crime & Punishment<\/strong><\/p>\nCritics say New York\u2019s justice system is failing. State prisons employ rogue officers. The facilities to accommodate inmates with mental health problems are inadequate. That New York is one of only two states where 16-year-olds are treated as adults. In part four of our series on the Constitutional Convention we discuss how re-writing the State\u2019s Constitution could address these issues, as well as the unintended consequences of constitutional change.<\/p>\n
Issues:<\/p>\n
\n- Should New York raise the age of criminal responsibility?<\/li>\n
- Should there be a constitutional right to mental health supports?<\/li>\n
- How do we address prison brutality?<\/li>\n
- Why are some judges in the state appointed and other voted in by the people<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
August | Re-imagining New York: Ethics & Power<\/strong>The balance of power in New York State government tilts toward the executive branch. Critics say that the balance needs to be re-calibrated; they are unhappy that the Governor is permitted to include policy provisions in the state budget as he did with teacher evaluations in 2015. In the 5th installment of our series on the Constitutional Convention we will address the balance of power, as well as the issues that have had New Yorkers scratching their heads for years, including why \u201c3 men in a room\u201d hammer out the budget every year.<\/p>\nIssues:<\/p>\n
\n- Is \u201cthree men in a room\u201d found in the constitution?<\/li>\n
- Why doesn\u2019t the state have term limits for legislators\/governors?<\/li>\n
- Can we take the money out of politics?<\/li>\n
- How come it seems like the same people win every year?<\/li>\n
- Would \u201cInitiative & Referendum\u201d work in New York State?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
September | Re-imagining New York: Education<\/strong>The New York State Constitution promises a \u201csound basic education\u201d to every student. But education advocates argue that lawmakers haven\u2019t taken the promise seriously and have underfunded many districts. In the second installment of our Constitutional Convention series we will discuss school financing, as well as the constitutional provision that protects pensions for teachers.<\/p>\nIssues:<\/p>\n
\n\n\n\n- Should there be a constitutional right to pre-kindergarten education?<\/li>\n
- Should there be limits on class sizes?<\/li>\n
- How do we ensure equity in school funding?<\/li>\n
- Do we need to reform how the Board of Regents functions?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n- <\/li>\n
- How do charter schools fit into the state constitution?<\/li>\n
- Should pensions be constitutionally protected?<\/li>\n
- Do we need to reform collective bargaining?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
October 2016 | Con Con 2017: From Imagination to Reality<\/strong><\/p>\nIn the final installment of our series to prepare WCNY viewers for the November 2017 vote on a Constitutional Convention we will present a final breakdown of the risks and rewards of holding a convention including the idea that a convention acts as a pressure relief valve (or so our forefathers may have thought) for those who are dissatisfied with the process and the product of government and seek a course correction.<\/p>\n
\n- We explain that New Yorkers will have 3 opportunities to say \u201cyes or no\u201d in this process.<\/li>\n
- If voters say \u201cyes\u201d in 2017, what then? How would delegates be selected? Are lawmakers\u00a0allowed to be delegates and if so, would they get double the salary? How much would a convention cost? How long would it last? Where would the event take place? What if we go through this process and voters say \u201cno\u201d to the final result? Will it have been a waste of time?<\/li>\n
- What would New York in the 21st century look like with and without a new constitution. \u201cConnect: NY\u201d will be broadcast on public television stations across New York State. It will also be\u00a0available for streaming online at wcny.org\/connectny.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Broadcast Media Interview Shows that Regularly Cover the<\/strong><\/h2>\nNovember 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Effective Radio with Bill Samuels<\/h4>\n
A radio talk show that regularly covers the upcoming state constitutional convention referendum is\u00a0Effective Radio with Bill Samuels<\/a>, which airs every Sunday at 11 a.m. both online and over-the-air on AM970. Here is a link<\/a> to its convention episodes. \u00a0Here is the press release<\/a> announcing the series.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Broadcast Media Coverage of the November 7, 2017 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.60″ module_alignment=”left” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Broadcast Media Coverage of the<\/strong><\/h2>\nNovember 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n
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Regional News Network’s Andrew Whitman moderates a debate over whether or not New York should hold a convention on the state constitution between former assemblymen Richard Brodsky and Arthur Kremer, July 28, 2017. \u00a0The half hour show, including ads, was divided into three segments.<\/p>\n
\n<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n
Collections of more recent convention videos can be found at Citizens Union<\/a> and NYPeoplesConvention.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Book Reviews Related To The Nov. 7 Referendum” background_layout=”light” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”3.0.83″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Book Reviews” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.66″ module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n Roberts, Sam, New York\u2019s Overstuffed Constitution: Voters Face a Window for Reforms<\/a>, New York Times<\/em>, March 24, 2017.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Blog News Related To The Nov. 7 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text background_layout=”light” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”3.0.83″]<\/p>\n Somerstein, Nicole, Will New York Decide to Hold a Constitutional Convention?<\/a>, BallotReady, April 25, 2017.<\/p>\n 3 Reasons to Vote in the NY State Constitution Referendum<\/a>,\u00a0Manhattan Neighborhood Network<\/em>, March 12, 2017.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Good Government Groups Letters to Legislature or Governor” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Good Government Group Letters” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n Groups Comment on Governor\u2019s Proposed Budget Relating to Constitutional Convention Reforms<\/a>,\u00a0March 21, 2016.<\/span><\/p>\n Reforming Constitutional Convention Delegate Selection and Convention Rules<\/a>, November 23, 2015.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Broadcast Media Documentaries on the November 7, 2017 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”News” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.71″ module_alignment=”left” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n Constitutional Convention Forum<\/a>, Mountain Lake PBS, May 26, 2017.<\/p>\n Election Day may still be months away but many political leaders and watchdog groups in Albany are gearing up for a debate over a referendum question that\u2019ll be on the ballot this November that supporters say could improve how state government works, and that opponents fear could make unnecessary changes to the New York State Constitution.<\/p>\n Every 20 years New Yorkers can vote on whether to hold what\u2019s called a constitutional convention, where a commission considers revisions to the State Constitution. While supporters argue it is the only way to push through major reforms that the legislature won\u2019t address, holding a convention opens up the entire constitution to review, which is why critics oppose it. They worry revisions could roll back rights for workers, aid for the needy, and wilderness protections for the Adirondacks.<\/p>\n This week, we welcome a panel of scholars and experts to delve into the pros and cons of holding a constitutional convention. Joining the discussion are Christopher Bopst, a constitutional scholar; Neil Woodworth, the CEO and Executive Director of the Adirondack Mountain Club; John Sheehan, Director of Communications at Adirondack Council; and Fred Monroe, the former supervisor for the Town of Chester and the Executive Director of the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board.<\/p>\n See Murphy, Mike,\u00a0Program on NY Constitutional Convention to air on\u00a0Finger Lakes TV<\/a>, Victor Post, January 31, 2017.<\/p>\n To be aired on the FLTV On The Road program. \u00a0However, as of February 5, 2017 it couldn’t be found on its website.<\/p>\n The parts will be gradually released between May 2016 and November 2017, and available via streaming at\u00a0wcny.org\/ConnectNY<\/a>.<\/p>\n Summary:<\/strong> Every 20 years, the state constitution sets a statewide referendum on whether to convene a constitutional convention. The next vote arrives November 7, 2017. Through 2016 and into 2017, WCNY will develop a campaign of content exploring this important expectation of the electorate, including a series of six episodes of Connect: NY so that voters are able to make an informed decision. \u00a0Episodes of the six part series will air Mondays at 9 p.m. on WCNY, and on local PBS stations across New York.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 107, May 16, 2016 Re-Imagining New York: NY\u2019s Constitutional Convention \u2013 Halley\u2019s Comet of Change<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Note:\u00a0A remarkable factual mistake near the opening of Part I is that New York’s first constitution is still its current constitution.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n In November of 2017, New Yorkers will have the chance to vote on whether or not to hold a Constitutional Convention.\u00a0 In the first installment of our series on this critical vote, we discuss the problems that exist within the State\u2019s Constitution as well as the risks that are inherent when the document is opened up to change.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 108, June 20, 2016 Re-Imagining New York: Environment<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n There is no more famous provision in the New York State Constitution than the one protecting the Adirondack Park as \u201cForever Wild\u201d.\u00a0 In the third installment of our series on the pros & cons of a Constitutional Convention, we will discuss the history and practical implications of this unique constitutional promise.\u00a0 Why, for example, should residents of New York City get to vote on a mining provision in the Park?\u00a0 Plus, we debated other environmental questions.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 109, July 11, 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Crime & Punishment<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Could a constitutional convention fix New York\u2019s criminal justice system? Learn about the tragic story of Samuel Harrell, a mentally ill prisoner at the Fishkill Correctional Facility whose 2015 death was ruled a homicide and is still under investigation. A panel of experts addressed the issues that stem from the case, and discuss how a state constitutional convention could address the injustices that may have occurred.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 110: Aug. 22, 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Power and Ethics<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n In the last 10 years, more than 30 current or former state officeholders in New York have been convicted of crimes, or accused of wrongdoing. \u00a0Could a Constitutional Convention help sweep out the bad apples?\u00a0 How about take money out of politics?\u00a0 Recalibrate power?\u00a0 Or institute term limits?\u00a0 The answer to all of the above is YES \u2013 but it comes with risks.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 111, Sept. 19, 2016 | Re-Imagining New York: Education<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This episode introduces the idea that a Constitutional Convention in New York could impact the issues surrounding how children are equitably\u00a0educated, how the\u00a0education system is funded and why collective bargaining plays an important role.<\/p>\n Connect: NY 112, Oct. 17, 2016 Re-imagining New York: From Imagination to Reality<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n What happens if New Yorkers vote \u2018Yes\u2019 to a Constitutional Convention in 2017? What are the risks? What positive steps could come out of a convention?<\/p>\n May 13, 2016 Every 20 years, the NY state constitution mandates a statewide referendum on whether to convene a constitutional convention. The next vote arrives Nov. 7, 2017, when voters determine whether to hold a convetion. New York\u2019s 50,000-word constitution currently has 225 amendments and was last amended in 1938.<\/p>\n To help voters make informed decisions, WCNY will explore this important opportunity to reshape government beginning with a series of six episodes of \u201cConnect:NY.\u201d WCNY\u2019s News and Public Affairs Director Susan Arbetter will host monthly conversations on six of the key aspects of the issue on \u201cConnect:NY.\u201d Stakeholders in government, labor, the environment, law and business will join scholars and educators will join a lively, in-studio presentation that will be produced from WCNY\u2019s Broadcast and Education Center.<\/p>\n The program features the following six upcoming topics:<\/strong><\/p>\n May 16 at 9 p.m. | New York\u2019s Constitutional Convention: Halley\u2019s Comet of Change<\/strong><\/p>\n In November of 2017, New Yorkers will have the chance to vote on whether or not to hold a Constitutional Convention. In the first installment of our series on this critical vote, we discuss the problems that exist within the State\u2019s Constitution as well as the risks that are inherent when the document is opened up to change.<\/p>\n June | Re-imagining New York: Environment<\/strong><\/p>\n There is no more famous provision in the New York State Constitution than the one protecting the Adirondack Park as \u201cForever Wild\u201d. In the third installment of our series on the pros & cons of a Constitutional Convention, we will discuss the history and practical implications of this unique constitutional promise. Why, for example, should residents of New York City get to vote on a mining provision in the Park? Plus, we will debate other environmental questions.<\/p>\n Issues:<\/p>\n July 2016 | Re-imagining New York: Crime & Punishment<\/strong><\/p>\n Critics say New York\u2019s justice system is failing. State prisons employ rogue officers. The facilities to accommodate inmates with mental health problems are inadequate. That New York is one of only two states where 16-year-olds are treated as adults. In part four of our series on the Constitutional Convention we discuss how re-writing the State\u2019s Constitution could address these issues, as well as the unintended consequences of constitutional change.<\/p>\n Issues:<\/p>\n August | Re-imagining New York: Ethics & Power<\/strong>The balance of power in New York State government tilts toward the executive branch. Critics say that the balance needs to be re-calibrated; they are unhappy that the Governor is permitted to include policy provisions in the state budget as he did with teacher evaluations in 2015. In the 5th installment of our series on the Constitutional Convention we will address the balance of power, as well as the issues that have had New Yorkers scratching their heads for years, including why \u201c3 men in a room\u201d hammer out the budget every year.<\/p>\n Issues:<\/p>\n September | Re-imagining New York: Education<\/strong>The New York State Constitution promises a \u201csound basic education\u201d to every student. But education advocates argue that lawmakers haven\u2019t taken the promise seriously and have underfunded many districts. In the second installment of our Constitutional Convention series we will discuss school financing, as well as the constitutional provision that protects pensions for teachers.<\/p>\n Issues:<\/p>\n October 2016 | Con Con 2017: From Imagination to Reality<\/strong><\/p>\n In the final installment of our series to prepare WCNY viewers for the November 2017 vote on a Constitutional Convention we will present a final breakdown of the risks and rewards of holding a convention including the idea that a convention acts as a pressure relief valve (or so our forefathers may have thought) for those who are dissatisfied with the process and the product of government and seek a course correction.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Broadcast Media that Regularly Cover the November 17, 2017 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”News” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.71″ module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n A radio talk show that regularly covers the upcoming state constitutional convention referendum is\u00a0Effective Radio with Bill Samuels<\/a>, which airs every Sunday at 11 a.m. both online and over-the-air on AM970. Here is a link<\/a> to its convention episodes. \u00a0Here is the press release<\/a> announcing the series.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Broadcast Media Coverage of the November 7, 2017 Referendum” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.60″ module_alignment=”left” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text: Blank Placeholder” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” module_alignment=”left” border_color_all=”off” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text admin_label=”News” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” border_style=”solid” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.0.71″ module_alignment=”left” border_style_all=”solid”]<\/p>\n Regional News Network’s Andrew Whitman moderates a debate over whether or not New York should hold a convention on the state constitution between former assemblymen Richard Brodsky and Arthur Kremer, July 28, 2017. \u00a0The half hour show, including ads, was divided into three segments.<\/p>\nBook Reviews\u00a0Related To The<\/strong><\/h2>\n
November 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Blog News Related To The<\/strong><\/h2>\n
November 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Good Government Group Letters to the Legislature or Governor<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Regarding a State Constitutional Convention<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Broadcast Media Documentaries\u00a0on the<\/strong><\/h2>\n
November 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Constitutional Convention Forum<\/h3>\n
Finger Lakes TV Public Access Interview with Hank Dullea<\/h3>\n
WCNY’s 6-Part Series, Issues Regarding a Constitutional Convention in NYS<\/h3>\n
\nSummary\u00a0Programming Guide<\/h3>\n
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Part I<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Part II<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Part III<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Part IV<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Part V<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Part VI<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\nDetailed Programming Guide<\/h3>\n
\n\u2018Connect:NY\u2019 series explores the next constitutional convention<\/h2>\n
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Broadcast Media Interview Shows that Regularly Cover the<\/strong><\/h2>\n
November 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Effective Radio with Bill Samuels<\/h4>\n
Broadcast Media Coverage of the<\/strong><\/h2>\n
November 7, 2017 Referendum<\/strong><\/h2>\n