People’s Convention to Reform New York Act
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers Regarding this Proposed Legislation
1. What is the “People’s Convention to Reform New York?”
The People’s Convention to Reform New York is a non-partisan, grassroots effort to bring positive change and chart a new direction for New York State. The question of whether New York should convene a People’s Convention will automatically go before voters in 2017. The “People’s Convention to Reform New York Act,” (Assembly Bill A.1262) would move the opportunity for reform up by six years by placing it on the ballot for the 2011 elections.
2. Why do we need a People’s Convention to Reform New York?
Despite having an on-time State Budget this year, Albany is still FAR from being the less costly, more responsive government that taxpayers deserve.
3. Why would this be a “People’s Convention?”
Taxpayers (like you!) could run for and serve as delegates to the People’s Convention and have a strong voice in reforming New York State government.
4. When are people selected as delegates?
Delegates are elected one year after the People’s Convention is approved by the voters.
5. How many delegates are selected?
The voters would choose (in non-partisan general elections) three delegates from each of the 62 senatorial districts and 15 delegates statewide, for a total of 201 citizen delegates to the People’s Convention.
6. How do you become a delegate?
Any citizen who obtains 1,000 signatures from registered voters of the State Senate district would qualify for the non-partisan primary election. Candidates for statewide delegate would be required to obtain 10,000 signatures to qualify for the primary.
7. Can elected officials, political party officials or lobbyists run as delegates?
To ensure the People’s Convention is truly of, by and for the people, elected officials, lobbyists, special interest representatives or party officials would be forced to resign from their office if elected as delegates. Also, any person lobbying the People’s Convention would be prohibited from serving as a delegate. This would prevent the special interests, lobbyists and political insiders from hijacking the reform process.
8. When and where would the convention convene?
The People’s Convention would convene in a facility at the State Capitol (located in Albany) on the first Tuesday of April, immediately following the election of citizen delegates.
9. How long do conventions last?
The convention would continue until the people’s business was completed. The 1967 People’s Convention lasted 22 weeks.
10. What issues can be addressed at the People’s Convention?
The people elected as delegates will have the authority to set the People’s Convention agenda. Some of the issues that could be considered include fiscal reforms like state debt reform, a ban on backdoor borrowing and unfunded mandates. Governmental such as initiative and referendum, an independent Legislative Redistricting Commission, term limits for Legislative Leaders, ethics reform and a succession plan for state offices could also be part of the People’s Convention.
11. What happens to a proposed State Constitution or Constitutional
Amendment adopted by the People’s Convention?
Any proposed State Constitution or Constitutional Amendment must be approved by the people in a statewide referendum vote.
12. What can I do to support the People’s Convention to Reform New York?
In a word: plenty! By speaking out for a People’s Convention and the need for real reform and a positive new direction for New York, you can begin the process of taking back your state government (see below for more on how you can join the fight).
