Official Election Pamphlet - Alaska Elections State Division of Elections

Ballot Measure No. 1
Constitutional Convention Question
The risks of corruption in government have risen. You know the examples. The attorney general
may be conflicted or preoccupied. A constitutional amendment can create a quasi-judicial office
of Inspector General with the duties of overseeing ethical performance of government, election
management, redistricting and other duties, which do not easily fit under executive control.
Your permanent fund dividend is not in the constitution. It needs protection as politicians may
seek other uses for the money and sustainable standards for its size. The fund itself has no stated
purpose. A convention can define the “rainy day” that allows legislative expenditures. Standards
for the use of its income can be set. Part of its income can be committed to expand the existing
constitutional right to K-12 education to include a preschool year with participation by private
institutions.
Require a public vote on giant state construction projects, now limited only to those requiring
debt. Take legislative pay determination from the legislature. Require a shareholder vote before
any political corporate expenditure is made and complete disclosure on the source of all political
funding. Take politicians off the redistricting board. Reduce the money factor in the initiative and
provide a hearing process before fixing the question on the ballot.
People fear that extremists of the left or right will take over a convention, but for a convention, people
of stature will come forward who were not prepared to give their lives to legislative representation.
You get to choose the delegates and you get to vote on the convention product, probably a series
of amendments, before any change is adopted. The Alaskan democracy and the Alaskan way of
life are in danger. A convention is a risk worth taking.
John Havelock
Former Attorney General
Professor of Justice, U of A, ret.
Author of “Let’s Get It Right” a study of the Alaska Constitution
Statement in Opposition
The League of Women Voters of Alaska urges Alaskans to vote “NO” on this ballot measure. It
is unnecessary, costly and potentially dangerous. The Alaska Constitution is considered a model
constitution. It is a flexible and concise document that adapts to changing needs.
UNNECESSARY. While certain issues prompt intense public interest, a constitutional convention
is NOT the best way to address these issues. There is a clear and effective amendment process.
The LWVAK supports the amendment process for any needed changes. The amendment process
has worked forty times, and it will continue to work in the future. In this way the people have an
opportunity to address specific issues rather than risk opening up the entire Constitution to major
changes.
COSTLY. No dollar amount has been determined for the cost of holding a constitutional convention,
but undoubtedly it would be large.
The statement printed on this page is the opinion of the author(s) and is presented as submitted to the Division of Elections.
PAGE 67
2012 REGION III