Amendments are on the ballot in Iowa

Two Iowa constitutional amendments are on the ballot this fall. Both were approved by broad bipartisan votes into two consecutive general assemblies. We see no compelling reasons for opposing the changes and urge yes votes

One amendment clarifies gubernatorial succession. IN 2017, when then-Gov. Terry Branstad resigned to become U.S. ambassador to China, Kim Reynolds became governor and wanted to appoint a new lieutenant governor. But then-Attorney General Tom Miller concluded the constitution directed that Gov. Reynolds was both governor and lieutenant governor.

The constitution made no provision for selecting a new lieutenant governor.

The amendment would change that.

“If there is a temporary disability of the governor, the lieutenant governor shall act as governor until the disability is removed, or the governor dies, resigns, or is removed from office. In case of the death, resignation, or removal from office of the governor, the lieutenant governor shall become governor for the remainder of the term, which shall create a vacancy in the office of lieutenant governor. This section shall also apply, as appropriate, to the governor-elect and the lieutenant governor-elect.”

A second amendment deals with voting eligibility requirements. It would clarify in the constitution that 17-year-olds can vote in primary elections if they will turn 18 by the general election.

“Only a citizen of the United States of the age of eighteen years, who shall have been a resident of this state for such period of time as shall be provided by law and of the county in which the citizen claims the citizen’s vote for such period of time as shall be provided by law, shall be entitled to vote at all elections which are authorized by law. However, for purposes of a primary election, a United States citizen must be at least eighteen years of age as of the next general election following the primary election. The required periods of residence shall not exceed six months in this state and sixty days in the county.”

The proposed amendment does make one curious language change. Where it now says “Every citizen of the United States meeting voting requirements can vote in a state election. The new language will say “Only a citizen of the United States” can be qualified to vote.

There are concerns that the wording change could lead local election officials to start asking for passports and other proof of citizenship in addition to voter registration cards and driver’s licenses currently accepted as proof of eligibility. The more pieces of information voters are required to present, the higher chance they may be turned away from the polls.

It’s something that bears watching in the years ahead. But it’s not an issue that should derail the amendment.

(319) 398-8262; editorial@thegazette.com