We haven't had a constitutional convention here in Hawaii since 1978. But that could change soon. There is currently a task force trying to figure out the impact on the state, and after a vote, we could have another con con by 2010. But how does this affect you? How much will it cost? Who would represent your interests? What issues would be addressed? Lieutenant governor Duke Aiona is here to shed some light on this.

Basic Con-Con FAQs:

1) When was the last Constitutional Convention in Hawaii?
1978

2) When are voter registration deadlines for voters in 2008?

- Primary Election: August 21, 2008
- General Election: October 6, 2008
- Absentee Voting for Primary Election: September 13th, 2008
- Absentee Voting for General Election: October 28th, 2008

3) If the vote for the Con-Con is successful on November 4th, when would the convention actually occur ?
It could be as early as the summer of 2010 if the legislature wastes no time in fulfilling its mandate from the voters.

4) How many delegates will there be representing citizens at the convention?
If the legislature decides on the same basis as in 1978, there would be two delegates from every House district, totaling 102. This is important because a lesser number could be more easily controlled by large and powerful special interest groups.

5) What kinds of issues can be discussed at a Con-Con?
While the main purposes of a Con-Con are to bring a re-structuring of government responsibility and authority for the purpose of achieving greater accountability and personal protections to Hawaii's citizens, literally any subject of importance may be considered. Some issues will fit within a constitutional framework while others can be more appropriately handled in the legislature.

6) What are the requirements to run as a delegate to the Con-Con?
The legislature will determine those requirements, however, in 1978 the minimum age was 18. You just have to file the appropriate paperwork with the Campaign Spending Commission.

7) Are there any donation limits to supporting the educational campaign for a Con-Con ? No.

8) Are donations supporting the educational campaign for a Con-Con tax deductible?
Yes, if made to a qualifying tax-exempt organization as provided in section 170 of the IRS code.

9) If the Con-Con vote is successful on November 4th, what happens next?
In the next legislative session (January-May, 2009), the legislature will have the responsibility to determine the location, timing, and budget for the convention as well as the manner of representation by delegates.

10) How soon could the voters actually be voting on proposed changes?
A Special Election for delegate selection could occur as early as the Fall of 2009, the Con-Con take place in Summer of 2010, and amendments voted on in the Fall election of 2010.

11) How can I find a copy of the current constitution if I want to read or study it?
You have the option of downloading a copy either in WORD or a PDF format. Just click here and you find it on the website.

12) What about those who say a Con-Con is too expensive?
Estimated costs have varied everywhere from $10-20 million. There are a couple of responses that put the proper perspective on this issue. One would be to think of it in terms of every person living in Hawaii to be willing to cover the cost of a movie ticket. Would they be willing to do so? Another would be to recognize that expected savings resulting from a re-organization and streamlining of government would easily cover this investment in Hawaii's future.

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