Direct Democracy

A process that enables citizens to bypass their state legislature by placing proposed statutes and, in some states, constitutional amendments, on the ballot. Two types: Direct: straight from people to ballot Indirect: goes to legislature first Initiatives

Referendum Legislative: –Legislature puts a measure on the ballot for voter approval. Popular: –Citizens petition to vote to approve or disapprove a law enacted by the legislature.

The process Single Subject rule Title and summary Signatures Majority vote

Initiatives: the ideal Direct legislation by the people Grass-roots citizen activists gather signatures and campaign for legislation Enact popular legislation stopped by obstruction in the legislature

Initiatives: reality Politicians not citizens Buying ballot access Framing effects Inability to amend Lack of deliberation/consideration of minority rights End up in the courts Unintended consequences

Possible reforms? Spending limits Lowered signature requirements for volunteer efforts Allow people to sign online Have to pass with supermajority Allow legislature to amend Limit number on ballot