Emerging issue: constitutional convention ballot proposal

Michigan’s current state constitution, adopted in 1963, contains a provision requiring a statewide ballot proposal every 16 years, asking voters whether to convene a constitutional convention to draft a new constitution. 

If the proposal passes, delegates would be elected in partisan elections from each of Michigan’s 38 state senate districts and 110 state house districts. 

In the last vote on this issue, MFB opposed convening a constitutional convention. While MFB policy does not take a position on the issue, it does support requiring a two-thirds vote for passage of the recurring ballot question. However, this is not currently law.  

Reasons to Vote Yes 

• Provides an opportunity for farmer members to serve as delegates.
• Allows for potential improvements to state government.
• Aligns with several MFB policy statements that would support constitutional amendments to accomplish MFB policy goals.  

Reasons to Vote No 

• Amending the state constitution issue by issue is a more direct and transparent approach.
• New governor and legislators deserve the opportunity to govern without constraints from a constitutional convention.
• Creates uncertainty, as the final outcome is unknown.   

Questions to consider  

• Should MFB support or oppose the ballot proposal on the question of convening a constitutional convention?  

Policy references  

MFB Policy #60 Elections