2026 Voter Guide
proposal 1
what is proposal 1?
This is a proposal to convene a constitutional convention (con-con) for the purpose of drafting a general revision of the state constitution. Michigan voters are asked whether to hold a constitutional convention every 16 years because the Michigan Constitution requires the question to appear automatically on the statewide ballot.
A Con-Con allows delegates to make sweeping changes to the state constitution, opening the door for Lansing politicians and special interests to write their own rules and agendas without any accountability or oversight from voters.
A Yes vote approves holding a constitutional convention. It does not amend the Michigan Constitution or immediately change any constitutional provisions.
If Proposal 1 is approved:
- Michigan will hold a constitutional convention.
- Convention delegates will be elected by voters.
- Delegates will meet to consider possible constitutional revisions.
- Any proposed constitution or constitutional revisions must later be approved by Michigan voters before taking effect.
A No vote means Michigan will not hold a constitutional convention at this time.
If Proposal 1 is not approved:
- No constitutional convention will be convened.
- The current Michigan Constitution will remain in effect.
- Constitutional amendments may still be proposed through the existing amendment processes.
- The constitutional convention question will appear again as required by the Michigan Constitution in 16 years.
why hbam recommends voting no
1. Michigan Already Has a Proven Process for Constitutional Change
Michigan's Constitution already provides multiple ways to make constitutional changes. Citizens can propose constitutional amendments through the initiative process, and the Legislature can place proposed amendments on the ballot with a two-thirds vote of both chambers. In either case, Michigan voters have the final say.
These existing processes allow constitutional issues to be considered individually, giving voters the opportunity to evaluate each proposed amendment on its own merits rather than as part of a broader constitutional revision.
2. We Believe Constitutional Changes Are Best Considered One Issue at a Time
A constitutional convention allows elected delegates to consider broad revisions to Michigan's Constitution. HBAM believes that the state's existing amendment process provides a more focused and predictable approach. Rather than reopening multiple sections of the Constitution at once, individual amendments can be debated publicly and presented to voters one proposal at a time.
In our view, this makes it easier for voters to understand each proposed change and evaluate it independently.
3. Concerns About the Scope and Uncertainty of a Constitutional Convention
A constitutional convention has broad authority to consider constitutional revisions. This kind of broad authority can create unnecessary uncertainty because multiple constitutional issues could be considered during a single convention.
While any proposed changes would still require voter approval, we believe beginning such an expansive process is unnecessary given Michigan's existing amendment procedures.