Ahead of Louisiana’s December 7 special election, the Free Press recommends a “No” vote on all four proposed constitutional amendments and the one cent sales tax call in Monroe.
The amendments, which address judicial discipline, legislative procedures, and property tax administration, have drawn criticism for attempting to enshrine in the constitution matters that could be handled through regular legislative channels.
The proposed Amendment 1, which would expand the judiciary commission and broaden grounds for judicial discipline, has been particularly scrutinized. The Free Press argues that while judicial oversight is important, the proposed changes could be achieved through statutory modifications rather than constitutional amendments.
Amendment 2, which would institute a 48-hour waiting period for appropriations bill concurrence votes, and Amendment 3, allowing for legislative session extensions, are both opposed for potentially constraining future legislative flexibility. It is opposed because these procedural matters should remain under legislative control rather than being constitutionally mandated.
Amendment 4, addressing property tax sales administration and emergency payment…
