Governor Jeff Landry held a press conference today to explain the need for a constitutional convention. Landry is pushing for a convention to be held in May and any changes would need voter approval in November. Landry says a presidential election is a perfect time for voters to weigh in on a reorganized constitution.
“If we are going to make that type of change, for the people, don’t you believe it should be placed at a time when the most amount of people of this state can have a say,” Landry said.
The goal of the constitutional convention is move certain sections of the constitution into state law. Landry says these changes will hopefully result in more budget flexibility when the state is facing a deficit. He says right now the Legislature’s hands are tied during tough budget times, resulting in big cuts to health care and education.
“Now you think we can fix education and get better outcomes for students? while we cut TOPS and cut vocational schools or cut community colleges or cut universities, or reduce those things?” Landry asked.
Democrats say they are uncomfortable rushing into a constitutional convention without more details on what could be possible moved into state statue. There’s a concern the state’s popular 75-thousand dollars homestead exemption will be removed from the constitution. Landry that’s not his intent.
“The homestead exemption can stay in the constitution. I met with the sheriff the other day. Supplemental pay can stay in the constitution. But all of the things that are underneath those, that don’t allow the legislature to look at them, should be moved into a particular statute,” Landry said.
A bill calling for a constitutional convention to begin May 20th is awaiting debate on the House floor.
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