Too Much Democracy in Ohio?

Posted Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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Ohio's current constitution has been amended 118 times since 1912. It's a process that has brought Ohio everything from term limits and a gay marriage ban to casinos and allowing the sale of colored margarine (1949). State Representative John Domenick says this ballot box legislating is getting out of control. He's proposing future amendments require approval from two-thirds of voters instead of a simple majority. That, he says, would help Ohio avoid the fate of states such as California, that many describe as "ungovernable." Wednesday morning at 9, join host Dan Moulthrop to examine whether constitutional amendments are just too much democracy.

Guests

State Rep. John Domenick (D-95)
Jonathan Entin, Professor of Political Science and Law, Case Western Reserve University
Robert Stern, President, Center for Governmental Studies
Bill Cohen, Ohio Public Radio Reporter

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Steve Thomas 10:16 AM 2/17/10

The continued alteration of the state consitution is one of several reasons why Ohio has been unable to compete for jobs and economic development programs. This an another example of the poor leadership for the people and businesses of Ohio, which has created confusion instead of opportunity.

eapardee 11:03 AM 2/17/10

For anyone interested in a list of past initiatives, here is a website—http://ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php/List_of_Ohio_ballot_measures#tab=Background