Mass. Lawmakers Weigh Constitutional Amendments

Massachusetts lawmakers are hearing from the public on a series of proposed amendments to the state constitution, including one that would create term limits for judges and a second that would restrict the use of the state's eminent domain powers.

Another of the proposed constitutional amendments slated to come up before the Judiciary Committee on Thursday would eliminate the eight-member Governor's Council that must approve judicial nominations.

Critics of the council say it's an archaic remnant from the state's past while supporters say it's an important check and balance on the power of the governor.

The eminent domain measure would bar the state from taking property from one private owner to give to another.

Another proposal eliminates lifetime tenure for judges. They would serve a seven-year term, after which they could be reappointed.