How did the process of initiative referendum and recall change government?

08/09/2022

How did the process of initiative referendum and recall change government?

In 1911, California voters approved the constitutional processes of initiative, referendum, and recall. Through these processes, voters can adopt a change in law (an initiative), disapprove a law passed by the Legislature (a referendum), or remove an elected official from office (a recall).

How many signatures does a petition need in Washington state?

In 2014, the deadline for filing initiative petitions was July 3. It is the Washington State Constitution that requires enough signatures equal to at least 8% of the votes cast for Governor in the most recent gubernatorial election.

Which is a procedure that enables voters to reject a measure adopted by the legislature?

Referendum is a power reserved to the voters that allows the voters, by petition, to demand the reconsideration and repeal of any legislative action of the City Council, except an emergency measure, before it becomes effective.

What is the process for filing an initiative or referendum petition?

Application process information: Before circulation of an initiative or referendum petition for signatures, a copy shall be submitted to the attorney general who shall prepare a title and summary of the measure as provided by law.

Does the law in question take effect before the referendum?

Subject restrictions: None (Const. Art. III, § 1). Does the law in question take effect before the referendum vote: The submission of a petition suspends the operation of any act except emergency measures and appropriation measures for the support and maintenance of state departments and institutions (Const. Art. III § 5).

Are there any restrictions on the conduct of a referendum?

Subject restrictions: None. Does the law in question take effect before the referendum vote: Any measure referred to the people by referendum petition shall remain in abeyance until such vote is taken; the filing of a referendum petition against one or more items, sections or parts of any act shall not delay the remainder from becoming operative.

What is the popular referendum process?

The popular referendum process allows voters to approve or repeal an act of the legislature. Twenty-three states have popular referendum processes. In 2002, NCSL published Initiative and Referendum in the 21st Century, an in-depth study on initiatives and referenda that includes recommendations for policymakers.