Joint resolution; calling a Constitutional Convention to alter, revise, or amend the present Constitution of the State of Oklahoma or propose a new Constitution.
The proposed amendments or new provisions resulting from the convention will necessitate voter approval at a General Election to be held in 2028. By structuring the selection of delegates to ensure representation from various sectors, including a public constituency, this resolution aims to provide a comprehensive review of the state's governing document. It provides that delegates will not be paid but will receive reimbursements for travel and per diem expenses during the convention's operation. This approach seeks to engage a diverse group in the governance process while maintaining ethical oversight for all delegates.
SJR15 is a joint resolution calling for a Constitutional Convention aimed at revising or amending the current Constitution of the State of Oklahoma, or proposing a new Constitution altogether. This convention is scheduled to convene on July 12, 2024, and will operate until June 30, 2025. The convention will consist of 106 delegates, including members from the State Legislature, the Executive Department, Judicial Department, and the public. This resolution reaffirms the requirement that such proposals be presented to state voters for approval, adhering to Article XXIV of the Oklahoma Constitution.
Points of contention surrounding SJR15 include its implications for local governance and the potential for controversial amendments to be discussed during the convention. Critics may argue that a Constitutional Convention could lead to significant shifts in policy or governance that may not reflect the will of the electorate, particularly if certain proposed amendments stray from more established norms. The selection process, which involves a mix of appointments and a lottery system, can also raise questions about representational equity and the balance of power within governmental branches.