It ain’t over till it’s over.

That’s the war cry from the Pelican Institute, which will unveil a new poll in a press release today showing broad public support for a constitutional convention in the coming weeks and a proposed, revamped Louisiana charter on the fall ballot.

Conducted by Illinois-based Cor Strategies July 16-19, the survey found that “nearly 60 percent of Louisianans are in favor of a constitutional convention to address the state’s outdated and convoluted constitution… (with) support among Republicans (75 percent) and considerable backing from Independents (54 percent).”

With its poll, Pelican hopes to offer a three-point argument in favor of a constitutional convention:

1.) The presidential election is an ideal time for voters to ratify or reject a new constitution. A high turnout ensures “broad participation and legitimacy.”

2.) Streamlining the Louisiana Constitution ahead of the 2025 fiscal session would enable the Legislature to “debate and implement optimal tax and budget policies without the constraints of the current document.”

3.) Voters get the final word.

“The poll speaks for itself,” said Pelican Institute CEO Daniel Erspamer. “Louisianans show broad support for a constitutional convention, and reform is popular among voters. This move towards a simpler constitution promises a roadmap for a booming economy, enhanced job opportunities and a safeguarded future for our children. It’s time for Louisiana’s ‘Comeback Story,’ defined by the people, for the people.” 

Businessman and conservative donor Lane Grigsby recently asked lawmakers to hold a far-reaching constitutional convention, after the Senate blocked such a move during this year’s regular session. Grigsby included specific examples of changes in his appeal, including a plan to move parts of the Constitution into statute to give the Legislature more financial flexibility.

Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson, meanwhile, wants a special session to scrutinize Article VII, which covers finance and taxation issues, and nothing else. Nelson envisions a two-week session in August, preceded by committee hearings, and followed by a public vote on an amendment package.

Time, however, is not on the side of architects. According to Secretary of State Nancy Landry, constitutional revisions must reach her desk by Aug. 23 if lawmakers want the proposals to appear on the Nov. 5 presidential ballot.

Based on Pelican’s poll, about 45 percent of respondents were familiar with the ongoing conversations in Baton Rouge about constitutional reforms.

The poll and its findings, along with a press release, will be made public by the Pelican Institute later this morning.

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