A constitution provides the basic framework of government,
it is not self-executing. Legislation is needed to provide
the details and the enforcement powers. Also, even if Con
Con passes, the Illinois General Assembly must decide the
parameters for the delegate election process, budget, staff,
location, dates, etc., for a convention.
Some of the groups supporting the call for a convention are
already active. One of the ways they are getting attention
is talking about problems that exist in state government.
Just remember, it is easy, particularly in the climate we
have right now, to enumerate the problems facing the state.
However, most of the issues they are raising are simply
not constitutional issues but rather legislative ones.
Remember that even a constitutional mandate, such as stating
that the state has the primary responsibility to fund public
education which is in our current constitution, requires legislative
action to implement it.
Membership Connection
Be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities for increased
visibility and membership recruitment that the Con-Con campaign
offers. Use this issue to go after media coverage; supply
your speakers with plenty of membership fliers; invite your
audiences and your Con-Con allies to a membership coffee or
upcoming meeting. The campaign offers your League a chance
to affect public policy and to be recognized for it.
Email questions, requests for assistance, and updates of
your Con-Con activities to issues@lwvil.org
Good luck in your campaign, and let us know what publicity and interest you are generating.
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