State Constitutions for the Twenty-first Century: The Politics of State Constitutional Reform

by Tarr, G. Alan; Williams, Robert F.

• ISBN13: 9780791466148
• ISBN10: 0791466140
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2006-06-30
• Publisher: State Univ of New York Pr

Summary

Through illuminating case studies of reform efforts in Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Virginia, this book-the first of three volumes-provides the first systematic analysis of the political obstacles to state constitutional reform. For those seeking constitutional reform, this useful resource can spell the difference between success and failure, and for those interested in state politics or constitutional politics, it offers rare insight into a distinctive aspect of American constitutionalism. Written by eminent scholars who were, in many cases, also active participants in the reform campaign, the essays provide practical experience, expert analysis, and lessons for future constitutional reformers. Book jacket.

Table of Contents

Introduction	p. 1
Constitutional Commissions and Constitutional Reform
Constitutional Revision in Florida: Planning, Politics, Policy, and Publicity	p. 19
Constitutional Revision in California: The Triumph of Amendment over Revision	p. 59
Adopting a New Constitution: Lessons from Virginia	p. 73
Putting Constitutional Reform on the Agenda
Constitutional Reform in Alabama: Long Time in Coming	p. 113
The Mandatory Constitutional Convention Question Referendum: The New York Experience in National Context	p. 145
Direct Democracy and Constitutional Reform: Campaign Finance Initiatives in Colorado	p. 175
Mechanisms for State Constitutional Change	p. 197
Contributors	p. 205
Index	p. 207
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