Decatur, Ala. | Sunday, May 19, 2013
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Editorial ENDORSEMENT
Vote ‘yes’ on Ams. 9, 10

We recommend a “yes” vote on Amendments 9 and 10, which are part of a gradual effort to modernize the state’s antiquated constitution.

Alabama’s 1901 constitution is a mess. Cluttered with 850 amendments, it is unwieldy and unfair. Its provisions reflect the power of landowners and their determination to maintain that power. While most agree the document needs a massive overhaul, those who benefit from the archaic tome are resisting. If a major rewrite takes place, it will not be soon.

Rather than wait for the best solution, the bipartisan Alabama Constitutional Revision Committee is making what improvements it can. The Nov. 6 ballot will include two amendments that update relatively non-controversial provisions.

Amendments 9 and 10 modernize portions of the Constitution dealing with business privilege taxes and banks. The amendments remove references to the gold standard and telegraphs and generally modernize the language. Neither revision makes substantive changes.

It’s a small step toward creating a functional Constitution, but it’s a step in the right direction.

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2 comments on this item

No on Amendment 10. The banks wrote this and it has no co-sponsers. It also has an unfunded mandate that causes the State to spend money.

NO - Amendment 9 - Taxes Allows legislature to implement business privilege tax on corporations, and Churches

This amendment compiles several clauses in the Constitution.

Old verbiage – Section 232 which is to be stricken: The last sentence reads as follows: “Strictly benevolent, educational, or religious corporations shall not be required to pay such a tax.” Removes protection of churches from taxation. See further explanation at below web site.

NO - Amendment 10 - Bank Administration - Relating to authority of state legislature and banking in the state.

This is a major rewrite of the Constitution. Why are the bankers pushing it? Disregards the wisdom of our forefathers by removing key banking sections of our Ala Constitution. This will open the door for state and local political subdivisions to invest public assets in associations and corporations, which has been up until this point. Does away with the ability of the state of Alabama to establish a state bank and removes sound money policy, and removes Gold and Silver standard. This amendment is being pushed by liberal groups. A Strong NO

http://ccofal.org

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