NE2: Uniform Election Day Amendment (Passed)

[cinyc]

Uniform Election Day Amendment

You must be logged in to read this quote.

Sponsor: Representative cinyc

Note: We've normally been going in order in the NE2 slot.  This time, I'm using my power to place a proposed constitutional amendment into the slot because constitutional amendments need to be passed by midnight Friday to get on this month's ballot.  I see no reason to open up a NE3 slot at this time, as there are only 2 bills remaining in the queue.

Debate on this bill shall remain open for 72 hours, or until around 10:15 PM on Wednesday, February 12, unless modified or extended.  The sponsor, Rep. cinyc, is encouraged to speak on behalf of the bill within the next 36 hours.  If he does not, the bill will be tabled, as there is other pending legislation in the queue.

The floor is open for debate.

[cinyc]

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The reason for this bill is simple: when we amended the Fourth Northeast Constitution to make Assembly elections uniform with federal elections, we neglected to change the corresponding dates for gubernatorial and amendment elections.  Therefore, unless we amend the constitution again, it is possible for Gubernatorial and Assembly elections to fall on different weeks.  That wouldn't be good.

In order to make December amendment elections uniform with the Assembly elections, I have to propose an additional changes to Article VII, Section 2 (new changes are in italics):

You must be logged in to read this quote.

[cinyc]

I doubt this proposed amendment will be controversial.  

In order to make sure the voting period for this amendment ends before midnight Friday, I move that debate be cut off at 6PM on Tuesday, February 11 - about 44 hours after commencing.  Unless another Representative objects within the next 24 hours, I will accept my motion and lessen the debate period.

[cinyc]

The first amendment was passed improperly (did not follow the amendment process in the constitution- the deadline we want to meet here in fact).  I will support this.

This doesn't re-state what was passed in last month's amendment.

Last month's amendment passed regardless of whether the correct (3-day) or actual (7-day) ratification period was adhered to.  I don't think there's any question that it is law.

[cinyc]

The shortened debate period is now over.  It is time to vote on the bill, as amended:

Uniform Election Day Amendment

You must be logged in to read this quote.

This vote will remain open for the earlier of 48 hours or when all Representatives have voted.

[cinyc]

Aye

[cinyc]

By a 5-0 vote, the proposed Amendment passes, and goes to the voters for their vote next week.