Measures for the November 4, 2014 ballot

 

Amendment 2

Allowing Prior Sex Crimes with Minors to be considered by courts

Proposes amending the Missouri Constitution to allow relevant evidence of prior criminal acts to be admissible in prosecutions for crimes of a sexual nature involving a victim under eighteen years of age. 

From HJR 16 (5/17/13)
Sponsor Rep. John McCaherty (R – High Ridge)

 

Our response: This is a tough issue as we are “innocent until proven guilty.” This does not protect those that were simply accused of prior criminal acts without charges filed. Luckily  the courts may decide what is relevant and what provides danger of unfair prejudice.  

 

We cautiously suggest a “yes” vote.

Amendment 3

Ending Teacher Tenure

Proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting public schools from entering into new contracts having a term or duration in excess of three years with certificated staff with other provisions.

From: Initiative Petition 2014-024
Citizen Sponsor: Marc Ellinger

 

Our response: While we are supportive of education reform, this initiative limits local control for education. We support performance standards. However, schools should decide which teachers to hire and fire and the process thereof.

 

We suggest a “no” vote. 

 

Amendment 6

Enacting Early Voting

Proposes amending the Missouri Constitution to permit voting in person or by mail for a period of six business days prior to and including the Wednesday before the Election Day in all general elections.

From: HJR 90 (5/14/14)
Sponsor: Rep. Tony Duggar (R – Hartville)

 

Our response: We support the premise behind putting this on the ballot at a time when the legislature thought a six-week-free-for-all was going to be placed on the same ballot through initiative petition. If this was “no excuse absentee voting,” we would be for it. However, the portions of the proposal that talk about local election authorities having judges on staff for the six days of early voting raises questions of whether or not it is worth the expense.

 

We suggest a “no” vote. 

Amendment 10

Overriding Budget Withholds by Governor

Proposes amending the Missouri Constitution to include language relating to a governor’s fiscal management authority. 

From: HJR 72 (5/16/14)
Sponsor: Rep. Todd Richardson (R - Poplar Bluff)

 

Our response: Regardless of who is in power, checks and balances are healthy for government. We support the legislative being able to override the governor on whit holds and oppose recent actions by Gov. Nixon to withhold some appropriations for political purposes.

 

We suggest a “yes.” vote. 

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