Have an opinion on the Florida constitution? Show up today

Speak now or forever hold your peace (for another 20 years, at least). Florida’s Constitutional Revision Committee (FLCRC), formed every 20 years, is considering multiple changes to the Florida State Constitution. Their public hearing in St Petersburg is being held now – to hear the interests of Tampa Bay residents.

The commission is actively considering 36 proposals to add to the ballot for November mid-term elections. The proposals cover everything from education curriculum and funding, to drilling prohibitions, to repeal of criminal statutes, and banning betting on greyhound racing. This commission, comprised of 37 commissioners, are appointed by a variety of political and judicial players.

According to the FLCRC’s website, fifteen Commissioners are appointed by the Governor of Florida, nine by the President of the Florida Senate, nine by the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and three by the Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court. The Attorney General of Florida automatically serves on the CRC. The Governor designates the Chair of the CRC.

Hearings have been held all across the state, with hundreds of people showing up to have their voice heard by the commission. The Tampa Bay Times also reports that busloads of Parkland residents are expected to weigh in, urging amendments that the state legislature refused to include.

Where? The public hearing is at USF Petersburg’s University Student Center, 200 6th Ave S, Saint Petersburg, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Format? Each speaker will be given only one appearance form, and is allotted up to two minutes to speak. Those who do not wish to speak or who cannot wait their turn can fill out comment cards.

What are the proposals? Check out the active proposals here.