Illinois Ballot Initiatives May Reach Unprecedented Number
From the Associated Press
Let the voters decide. Whether it’s figuring out if the state should tax millionaires or who should pay for birth control, Illinois voters could see more November ballot questions than they have in decades.
As many as seven ballot measures could be up for consideration, including four proposed to alter Illinois’ constitution and three poll-style questions. Brought by Democrats and Republicans, they’re aimed at boosting voter turnout, which was abysmal during the primary, in a general election that features one of the nation’s most competitive and expensive governor’s races.
Voters groups are gearing up. League of Women Voters of Illinois executive director Mary Schaafsma said so many possibilities raise questions about political motives and could dilute efforts to raise awareness, but it’s a way to motivate voters.
“It’s a way for voters to feel like they have a little bit of empowerment,” she said. “Voters are capricious, and they can change their mind.”
None of the ballot measures — term limits, political redistricting, voters’ rights, crime victims’ rights and minimum wage — are sure things. Some are still emerging as legislators prepare to adjourn this week. Election officials are verifying signatures for petition-driven efforts on political boundaries and term limits while a lawsuit could threaten both plans. Election officials certify ballots in August.
Read more in our daily News Update...
From the Associated Press
Let the voters decide. Whether it’s figuring out if the state should tax millionaires or who should pay for birth control, Illinois voters could see more November ballot questions than they have in decades.
As many as seven ballot measures could be up for consideration, including four proposed to alter Illinois’ constitution and three poll-style questions. Brought by Democrats and Republicans, they’re aimed at boosting voter turnout, which was abysmal during the primary, in a general election that features one of the nation’s most competitive and expensive governor’s races.
Voters groups are gearing up. League of Women Voters of Illinois executive director Mary Schaafsma said so many possibilities raise questions about political motives and could dilute efforts to raise awareness, but it’s a way to motivate voters.
“It’s a way for voters to feel like they have a little bit of empowerment,” she said. “Voters are capricious, and they can change their mind.”
None of the ballot measures — term limits, political redistricting, voters’ rights, crime victims’ rights and minimum wage — are sure things. Some are still emerging as legislators prepare to adjourn this week. Election officials are verifying signatures for petition-driven efforts on political boundaries and term limits while a lawsuit could threaten both plans. Election officials certify ballots in August.
Read more in our daily News Update...