MA: Amendment to Article I, Section 5 (Passed)

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

This was inspired out of the recent deadlock situation due to a serious level of inactivity by one of our assemblyman. Plus as one of architects of the amendment to add a lt gov to rectify a mistake I made by not putting something in to give him or her specific duties. I'm open to any ideas to improve the amendment and will work with my fellow assemblymen on this matter.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

What would constitute gross inactivity? 7 days of not posting and missing two votes in that period? That was the definition used in the amendment to Article I on inactivity.

Four days or 2 votes

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

I oppose this. It's clearly a politic tactic for the right wing to gain a majority in the Assembly.

This is no tactic to give the right a working majority. This is to encourage activity for the Lt. Governor. The left would benefit from this as well.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

I agree with Shua, what does everyone think about this amendment to the amendment?

You must be logged in to read this quote.

The amendment is hostile.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

The reason I introduced my amendment is because my view is that a 2-2 tie that was the result of an abstention should be able to be broken. But I think now that if one legislator is missing for a short time, then there should be a restriction so that a 2-2 tie cannot be broken, so I acknowledge JCL's objection to removing all restrictions.

I withdraw my previous amendment, and I am proposing this amendment instead.

You must be logged in to read this quote.

This is much better Mr. Speaker. It also tidys up clause 4. So.... I give it a friendly amendment.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

is that (a, b, OR c) or (a, b, AND c)?

I still don't think we need to bring "gross inactivity" into it. How about this?

You must be logged in to read this quote.

Also, what does clause 2 mean? What "previous rights, priviliges and responsibilities" does this speak of and where are these listed?

Clause 2 is a confirmation of the powers already invested.

@New Canadaland's interpretation of clause 4 is totally accurate.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Where are the powers of the LG invested if not in the Constitution?

The powers are listed in the section on the governor.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

JCL, do you consider Shua's amendment friendly? If so I will call a vote on it.

If clause four stays it is. Otherwise no. The change to clause 3 is fine but the question is over clause 4.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

JCL, can you explain the importance of section 4? Ultimately I would accept either mine or Shua's amendments but the rest of the assembly seems to agree that section 4 isn't necessary in its current form.

Clause 4 explains the possible cases of needing the Lt. Gov. to cast a decide a tie breaking vote. I'm just trying to understand why my fellow assemblymen don't see the need for clause 4. I'm willing to work with either amendment.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

JCL, can you explain the importance of section 4? Ultimately I would accept either mine or Shua's amendments but the rest of the assembly seems to agree that section 4 isn't necessary in its current form.

Clause 4 explains the possible cases of needing the Lt. Gov. to cast a decide a tie breaking vote. I'm just trying to understand why my fellow assemblymen don't see the need for clause 4. I'm willing to work with either amendment.

Do you believe we need to limit when the LG can break ties?

I'm trying to figure a way to give him/her this power but still maintain separation of powers and prevent abuse of said power. Giving an absolute tie breaker vote may subvert that.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Abstain

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

There has been enough voting time on Shua's amendment, and it has passed 1-0, 2 abstaining.
Assemblyman JCL, would you rather have a vote on my amendment or a final vote now? Like I said I would accept either of the two amendments.

I'd like to request a vote on your amendment.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Aye

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Why is clause 5 marked out?

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Why is clause 5 marked out?

Constitutional Amendments always go into force upon their ratification, unless stated otherwise, so it isn't necessary.

Then I'm ok with it.

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Aye

[MyRescueKittehRocks]

Aye