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2020 United States Virgin Islands constitutional convention referendum

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2020 United States Virgin Islands constitutional convention referendum

3 November 2020

Are you in favor of the Legislature enacting legislation to convene a constitutional convention to adapt the Revised Organic Act of the Virgin Islands, 68 Stat. 497, or portions of it as the Constitution of the Virgin Islands?
Results
Choice
Votes %
Yes 7,275 71.92%
No 2,840 28.08%
Valid votes 10,115 55.79%
Invalid or blank votes 8,015 44.21%
Total votes 18,130 100.00%
Registered voters/turnout 53,341 33.99%

A referendum on holding a constitutional convention was held in the US Virgin Islands on 3 November 2020 alongside general elections. 72% of voters responding to the referendum question voted in favor and turnout was above the 50% threshold required.

Background

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The islands' first constitutional convention was held from 1964 to 1965 after members were elected in 1964. Although the convention approved a draft constitution in February 1965, it was not adopted by the United States Congress,[1] although some elements became law.[2] A second convention was held in 1971–1972, and although the draft constitution was approved by a majority of voters in a 1972 referendum, VI delegate Ron de Lugo believed the low turnout meant the constitution did not have sufficient mandate from the people and did not take it to Congress.[2]

The third constitution convention was held between 1977 and 1978, but this time voters rejected the draft document in a 1979 referendum. A fourth convention was held in 1980, with the draft again rejected by voters in a 1981 referendum. The fifth convention was held in 2009, but failed to agree on a draft by 2012 and was dissolved.

On 7 May 2020 the Legislature passed law 8308, which proposed a non-binding referendum on electing a constitutional convention. Governor Albert Bryan signed the law the following day. In order for the convention to be called at the Legislature's option, at least 50% of voters participating in the general election had to answer the referendum question, and a majority of those answering it had to vote in favor.

Results

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A total of 18,130 voters participated in the general election, of which 10,115 (56%) answered the referendum question. With a majority of those voting also voting in favor, the proposal was approved.

Choice Votes %
For 7,275 71.92
Against 2,840 28.08
Blank votes 8,015 -
Total 18,130 100
Registered voters/turnout 53,341 33.99
Source: VI Vote, Direct Democracy

Aftermath

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A bill on the calling of the sixth constitutional convention was approved on 29 December 2022, with members of the convention to be elected on 5 November 2024 during election day. The convention is planned to open in January 2025 and prepare a new constitution by 31 October 2025, followed by a referendum on it on 3 November 2026. If approved, the new constitution will enter into force on 31 March 2027.[3]

References

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  1. ^ House Hearing, 111 Congress U.S. Government Publishing Office
  2. ^ a b V.I. constitutional conventions: Background St Thomas Source, 19 May 2003
  3. ^ "Constitutional Convention Glides Under Radar Toward 2024 Election". St. Thomas Source. 13 August 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2023.