1986 Constitutional Convention

Timeline

November 6, 1984–Referendum on ballot.  Results: 159,801 yes votes; 137,096 no votes.

June 27, 1985–Enabling act passed.

November 5, 1985–Delegate election.  Election of 100 delegates from 558 candidates; 96,536 votes cast.

January 6, 1986–Convention convenes

June 26, 1986–Convention adjourns after proposing 14 constitutional amendments, most notably a rewrite of the constitution.

November 4, 1986–Convention proposed amendments placed on the ballot.  Eight approved; six rejected.  The rewrite of the constitution is one of the approved amendments.

Cost

$891,000 (1986 dollars)

Approved Amendments

  1. Rewrite of the present constitution*
  2. Ethics in government
  3. Budget powers and executive succession
  4. Rights of people
  5. Shore use and environmental protection
  6. Felon office holding and voting
  7. Libraries
  8. Bail

Rejected Amendments

  1. Judicial selection and disclosure
  2. Legislative pay and mileage
  3. Four year term and recall
  4. Voter initiative
  5. Home rule
  6. Paramount right-to-life

* The most important amendment.