Also on tomorrow’s ballot–two amendments to the NYS Constitution

Two proposed amendments to the New York State constitution will appear on the special election ballot tomorrow. You can find some background on the proposals from the NYS League of Women Voters here.

In many areas, the ballot proposals are on the back of the printed ballot. Be sure to check.

Proposal #1
Amendment to section 1 of article 14 of the Constitution, in relation to the use of certain forest preserve lands by National Grid to construct a 46 kV power line along State Route 56 in St. Lawrence County. The proposed amendment would authorize the Legislature to convey up to six acres of forest preserve land along State Route 56 in St. Lawrence County to National Grid for construction of a power line. In exchange, National Grid would convey to the State at least 10 acres of forest land in St. Lawrence County, to be incorporated into the forest preserve. The land to be conveyed by National Grid to the State must be at least equal in value to the land conveyed to National Grid by the State. Should the amendment be approved?

Chris Knight reported on the details of the proposed land swap for NCPR.

Proposal #2:
Amendment to article 3 of the Constitution, in relation to authorizing the Legislature to allow prisoners to voluntarily perform work for nonprofit organizations. The proposed amendment would authorize the Legislature to pass legislation to permit inmates in state and local correctional facilities to perform work for nonprofit organizations. Shall the proposed amendment be approved?