October 4, 2004
For Immediate Release
Avedisian
encourages approval
of separation of powers question
WARWICK – Mayor Scott Avedisian said today that he is supporting amendments to the State Constitution that would further ensure a balance of powers among the state’s three branches: executive, legislative and judicial.
Appearing as “Question 1” among 14 referenda being put forth before voters throughout the state, the so-called “separation of powers” question would amend the Rhode Island Constitution to prohibit the appointment of any current member of the General Assembly to state office, board, commission or quasi-public agency.
A second amendment would give additional power to the governor, by allowing him or her to appoint, with the advice and consent of the state Senate, “all members of any board, commission or other state or quasi-public entity which exercises executive power under the laws of this state…” The amendment will give the General Assembly the power to appoint “inferior officers” in the governor or in “other specified officials of the department in which the appointment is made.” This amendment does not take away appointment powers of the lieutenant governor, state treasurer, attorney general or secretary of state.
A third provision would amend the state Constitution to further define the fact that the three branches of government are separate and distinct, with the powers of each defined by law.
“While there are individuals in the General Assembly whose professional or personal experiences make them more than qualified to serve on a particular board or agency, there are countless individuals in the private and non-profit sectors who are equally knowledgeable,” Avedisian said. “The proposed amendments to the State Constitution will better define the roles and powers of each branch and will result in a more open form of government. I believe that these changes will also instill in Rhode Islanders a greater sense of trust in their elected officials and in the way our boards, commissions and agencies conduct business.”
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