For Immediate Release
Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2012
Contact: F. Vincent Vernuccio
Director of Labor Policy
Or
Ted O'Neil
Communications Associate
989-631-0900

MIDLAND — The “Protect Our Jobs” Amendment today failed to get enough votes at the State Board of Canvassers to be on November’s ballot. Supporters have appealed directly to the Michigan Supreme Court.

“This radical ballot initiative holds ramifications for the state that are too comprehensive to be explained in just 100 words on the ballot, as is required by the state constitution. It’s doubtful the court will allow special interests to completely change how Michigan is governed,” said F. Vincent Vernuccio, director of labor policy at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.

According to Center analysts, the initiative would effectively make each collective bargaining agreement into its own Constitutional Convention, as the language in each agreement would supersede many state laws. One estimate of the initiative’s reach suggests that the “Protect Our Jobs” proposal — if adopted — could repeal to varying degrees some 170 Michigan laws.

“This proposal is so far reaching I have asked UAW President Bob King to publicly debate its consequences for Michigan. My offer remains an open one,” added Joseph G. Lehman, president of the Mackinac Center.

For more information on the “Protect Our Jobs” proposal and other ballot initiatives, visit www.miballot2012.com.

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