PROPOSAL ONE

Convene a State Constitutional Convention (Con-Con)

If passed, this proposal states that a group of 148 delegates — individuals who hold any political office cannot be a delegate — will be elected in every state House and Senate district to draft a general revision of the state constitution, which will be voted on by Michigan voters upon completion. Items up for consideration include a part-time legislature and moving the date of the fiscal year from Oct. 1 to an earlier date.

Pros: Average citizens would be able to change the way the State of Michigan runs. Presently, there are 42 states with a part-time legislature and 46 states with a fiscal year beginning on July 1.

Cons: A Con-Con would cost a considerable amount, with estimates ranging from $8 million to $50 million. Another concern is that the entire constitution could change, which would lead to logistical issues.

PROPOSAL TWO

Amend the state constitution to prohibit certain felons from holding elective office

This proposal, if passed, would bar a person from running for any state or local elective office if that person has been convicted of a felony involving dishonesty, deceit, fraud or breach of public trust. The proposal would also extend to those seeking to hold a position in public employment that involves policy-making or has authority over public assets.

Pros: Proponents argue that decreasing the amount of felons would be a very positive step for Michigan’s government, based on the issues Detroit faced during former mayor Kwame Kilpatrick’s terms in office. This amendment would hinder those developments and possibly give a more stable government.

Cons: Opponents say individuals who commit felonies should be able to prove they’ve changed. Currently, felonies are allowed to run for office 20 years after committing a felony and there is some room for discussion on lowering this amount of years.