NWA LETTERS

Issue 1 attacks

separation of powers

All Arkansans need to be aware of Issue 1, a ballot measure on the Nov. 6 ballot to amend the Arkansas State Constitution. It would give the Arkansas legislature increased control of Arkansas courts.

Also known as Senate Joint Resolution 8 or ethics reform, this is a constitutional amendment that essentially weakens separation of powers and judiciary review.

The first two sections deal more with caps on lawsuits and lawyers’ fees, also egregious. Ballot Issue 1 proposes to limit the money damages that a jury can impose in civil lawsuits to $500,000 in non-economic damages and to $500,000 in punitive damages. The people of Arkansas have trusted our juries to come up with an appropriate amount to award in civil lawsuits. I believe that this is still a good idea.

Proponents will be talking more about lawyers’ fees, failing to mention the most glaring problem with the amendment: The last part of Issue 1 states that any rules promulgated by the Supreme Court may be annulled or amended in whole or in part by a three-fifths vote of the General Assembly.

Democracy is founded on the principle of separation of powers. Issue 1 undermines this principle. I hope Arkansas voters are paying attention and vote no on Issue 1.

GINNY MASULLO

Fayetteville

[email protected]

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