What is the purpose of a ballot initiative?

Ballot initiatives are a process that allow citizens to put a proposed law to a vote. It is similar to a petition, except that it is done through the ballot box. The purpose of a ballot initiative is to give citizens the power to directly propose and vote on laws and changes to the state’s constitution. This allows citizens to have a direct say in the laws that govern them, and bypasses the legislature of the state. In Texas, the initiative process can involve submitting a petition that contains signatures from registered voters numbering at least two percent of the total votes cast for all candidates for Governor in the most recent election. Then, the issue will be placed on the ballot for voters to decide during the next election. Once the proposed law passes, it will become a state law. Ballot initiatives can play a critical role in policy decisions since they allow citizens to be proactive in the legislative process. Furthermore, it is a way for citizens to bring attention to issues that they may feel are not being addressed by their local or state lawmakers.

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What is the purpose of a ballot initiative?

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