The Constitutional Revision Commission (CRC) convenes once every 20 years to examine the Florida Constitution and propose changes for voter consideration. Two CRC committees took action this week on proposals supported by the FCCB: Privacy Rights Proposal 22 by Commissioner John Stemberger narrows the right to privacy in the state constitution and was approved (4-3) on January 25 by the commission's Declaration of Rights Committee. Aimed at restoring the privacy clause in Florida's constitution to its original intent, the proposal specifies a person has the right of privacy from governmental intrusion "with respect to privacy of information and the disclosure thereof." Court decisions have extended the privacy clause to abortion cases. Laws requiring parental consent before minors can have abortions and 24-hour waiting periods before abortions have been struck down by Florida courts based on the clause. The proposal would not eliminate the right to an abortion, which is protected under federal court rulings, but it would allow reasonable regulations on abortion procedures. Ingrid Delgado, associate for social concerns/respect life, testified in support of the proposal, which heads to the commission's Judicial Committee. Religious Freedom Proposal 4 by CRC Commissioner Roberto Martinez removes Florida's Blaine amendment from the state constitution. First adopted in 1885, anti-Catholic and racial prejudice gave rise to the amendment in Florida. This provision in our state constitution prohibits public funding of religious institutions. Marco Paredes, associate director for health, testified in support of the proposal when it was initially considered by the committee on Friday, January 19. There is a long and successful history of collaboration between the state and faith-based organizations. Education, health care, disaster relief, and prison ministry are just a sampling of areas where faith-based organizations are partnering with the state. While these partnerships are widely supported, they could be at risk due to potential challenges under the Blaine amendment. Proposal 4 was passed (8-0) by its final committee of reference, the CRC Education Committee, on Friday, January 26. It will go next to the full commission for consideration. |
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