Direct Democracy
Citizens don’t just elect leaders, they write laws.
Through Initiatives, people can propose new laws or constitutional changes and place them directly on the ballot. Through Referenda, they can approve or reject laws passed by the legislature.
These tools let citizens act when representatives won’t, and overturn bad laws when they must. True self-government means the people themselves hold the pen.
Direct Initiative
Available in 24 states
We've used this 7 times, in CO, OR, CA, WA, FL, and SD from 1990 to 2020.
Citizens draft a proposed law, collect signatures, and if they gather enough, the measure goes directly on the ballot. Voters decide. No legislative involvement required.
Indirect Initiative
Available in 8 states
We've used this 7 times, in CO, OR, CA, WA, FL, and SD from 1990 to 2020.
Similar to direct initiative, but after signatures are gathered, the measure first goes to the legislature. If the legislature doesn't act or modifies it, then it goes to the ballot.
Popular Referendum
Available in 24 states
We've used this 7 times, in CO, OR, CA, WA, FL, and SD from 1990 to 2020.
After the legislature passes a law, citizens can collect signatures to force a vote on whether to keep or repeal it. This is a direct check on legislative power.
Legislative Referendum
Available in 50 states
We've used this 7 times, in CO, OR, CA, WA, FL, and SD from 1990 to 2020.
The legislature itself refers a question to voters—either because it's required (like constitutional amendments in most states) or because lawmakers want voter input on a controversial issue.
What citizens have achieved
Citizen initiatives have enacted major policy changes that legislatures refused to pass:
Minimum wage increases
Multiple states have raised minimum wages through ballot initiatives when legislatures wouldn't act.
Cannabis legalization
Most legal cannabis states achieved it through citizen initiatives, not legislative action.
Electoral reforms
Ranked-choice voting, redistricting reform, and campaign finance limits have passed through initiatives.
Tax and spending limits
Citizens have used initiatives to limit government spending, require voter approval for taxes, and more.
Environmental protection
Clean energy mandates, pollution controls, and conservation measures passed via direct democracy.
Civil rights
Marriage equality, anti-discrimination laws, and other civil rights protections have been both advanced and attacked through initiatives.
Challenges and concerns
Money matters
Signature gathering and campaigns cost millions. Well-funded special interests can dominate the process, though grassroots campaigns do sometimes prevail.
Complexity
Some issues are too complex for yes/no votes. Poorly drafted initiatives can have unintended consequences. Careful drafting and voter education are essential.
Minority rights
Direct democracy can be used to restrict minority rights. Courts provide some protection, but vigilance is needed to prevent tyranny of the majority.
Voter confusion
Ballots with many measures can overwhelm voters. Confusing language or deceptive campaigns can mislead. Clear communication and honest advocacy are crucial.
Common questions
Does my state allow initiatives?
24 states allow citizen-initiated measures. Many more allow them at the local level. Check your state's constitution and local charter.
Can the legislature overturn our initiative?
Depends on the state. Some prohibit legislative repeal for a period of time; others allow it. Constitutional initiatives are harder to overturn than statutory ones.
How much does it cost?
For statewide initiatives: $1-10 million or more for signature gathering and campaigns. Local measures cost less. Costs depend on paid vs. volunteer signature gathering and opposition funding.
What if we don't have initiative rights?
Advocate for adopting them. Several states have added initiative rights through constitutional amendments. Meanwhile, focus on other tools: elections, petitions, and public pressure.
Make law directly
When representatives won't act, take legislative power into your own hands.