We all have a fundamental right to vote. So why don’t we vote? Some of us argue that we don’t understand the ballot language or that we’re not informed enough to vote and choose between particular candidates and the issues presented on the ballot.
But now we have a chance to be informed about the issues and make informed choices, according to Jennifer Sooy, political science instructor.
On Oct. 25, from 2 until 4 p.m. in the stage area of Building 8, Sinclair Community College will present a Ballot Issues discussion in which interest group panelists will present the supporting and opposing arguments on three statewide issues on the 2011 ballot.
Students, faculty, staff and the general public will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain information that they can take with them to the ballot on Tuesday, Nov. 8.
The event is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served. Ellen Belcher, former Dayton Daily News opinion pages Editor will serve as the discussion moderator.
“This will be a balanced presentation by the panelists to educate the public and to encourage civil discourse and thoughtful discussion of important election issues in the Dayton community,” Jennifer said.
The interest group panelists will be discussing three statewide ballot issues: age limit for judges, collective bargaining (SB5) and health care choices.
Issue 1, Age limit for judges: This will affect the maximum age at which a person may be elected or appointed a judge. The age limit to retire is 70 years old, but if Issue 1 is passed the maximum age to retire will be 75.
“At the end of day, the problem is allowing the younger generation to be able to serve and move into judgeships,” said Kathleen Sooy, political science instructor. “But then you have to deal with age discrimination issues and the ability to allow them [judges] to serve as long as they are healthy and able.”
Issue 2, Collective bargaining (SB5): This issue determines whether state public officials will continue to negotiate their pensions and health care benefits.
“Under SB5, these employers are able to negotiate wages and some of their benefits, but not their health care and pensions,” Jennifer said.
Issue 3, Health Care Choices: This proposes an amendment to the Ohio State Constitution that allows Ohioans to preserve their freedom to choose their health care and health care coverage.
“The concern is whether to accept Obama’s healthcare plan to cover the uninsured. In other words, the concern is whether or not one should be compelled to purchase health insurance or if they should have that choice,” Kathleen said.
“All three issues are important because students will be affected, but these statewide issues will affect every Ohioan,” said former State Senator Tom Roberts, advisor for the Ohio Fellows and the Student Leadership Association. “In higher education, we have to help our students learn outside the classroom and part of our mission is to help students understand civic engagement. The core mission is helping our students understand their roles as citizens.”
For more information, go to www.sos.state.oh.us or call the Montgomery County Board of Elections at (937) 225-5656.