Town of Andover approves resolution calling for constitutional amendment

Town of Andover approves resolution calling for constitutional amendment

Last night at Andover’s annual town meeting town residents approved a resolution calling for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution affirming that (1) “corporations are not entitled to the constitutional rights of human beings, and that (2) both Congress and State governments may place limits on both political contributions and spending.” (See Article 64 in the town meeting warrant for the full text of the resolution.)

In passing the resolution, Andover becomes the 183rd community in Massachusetts (full list of communities here) to call for a constitutional amendment by either town meeting or ballot question vote. The Massachusetts legislature has also called for an amendment along with 15 other states and more than 500 communities nationwide.

Congratulations to Joan and Ted O’Brien, Ellen Kaminski, North Shore Move to Amend and all others who made the win possible! Ellen published this letter in the Andover Townsman following the vote.

Next week, Andover’s neighbors in North Andover will vote on a similar resolution during its town meeting on Tuesday May 20 (see article 13). Contact local activist Fred Nothnagel (frednothnagel@yahoo.com) in North Andover for more information about the resolution and how you can help.