Ballot measures and propositions
When voters, not legislators, make the decision.
- Legislature refers it: Lawmakers place a measure, often a constitutional amendment, on the ballot (all states but Delaware need voters for amendments).
- Or citizens petition: In about half the states, citizens can collect signatures for an initiative or a referendum on a new law.
- Qualifies: Officials verify signatures and approve the ballot wording.
- Voters decide: A majority (sometimes more) must vote yes.
- Takes effect: It becomes law or part of the constitution on the stated date.
Read the exact ballot wording, not only the title. On each ballot measure page we show the official text, a neutral summary, what a yes and a no vote do, and published arguments on each side.
Words used here
- Proposition
- The name for a measure on a Texas ballot, numbered Proposition 1, 2, and so on. A "For" vote supports the measure; an "Against" vote opposes it.
- Referendum
- A vote by the public on a law or measure. Texas statewide propositions are how voters decide on constitutional amendments.
- Ballot initiative
- A proposed law or constitutional amendment that citizens place on the ballot by gathering enough voter signatures, so voters decide it directly. About half the states allow some form of it.
- Constitutional amendment
- A change to a constitution. In Texas the Legislature proposes an amendment with a joint resolution passed by two-thirds of the members of each chamber. It takes effect only if a majority of the people voting on it approve it. In Florida, an amendment needs at least 60% of the votes cast on it to pass.
Official sources
A simplified overview written by PSI Sci editors from the sources above. Details vary, and exceptions exist. Other guides: How a federal bill becomes law · How a state bill becomes law · The federal budget process · Authorization vs. appropriation · Rulemaking and the Federal Register · Levels of government · How to contact officials effectively