Get ready for a historic election! Voters across 41 states will be deciding on a whopping 146 statewide ballot measures on November 5th, 2024. This year’s election cycle is brimming with crucial issues, including abortion, ranked-choice voting (RCV), non-citizen voting, criminal justice reform, wage policies, and drug-use regulations.
This surge in ballot measures, particularly those initiated by citizens, marks a significant shift from previous elections, according to Ryan Byrne, Ballotpedia’s managing editor. The increased focus on issues like abortion and electoral reform, especially ranked-choice voting, has fueled this wave of ballot initiative activity.
To help navigate this complex landscape, Ballotpedia has compiled a list of 15 key ballot measures and emerging trends to keep an eye on as we approach Election Day:
Ballot Measures to Watch:
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Florida Amendment 4:
This initiative tackles the sensitive issue of abortion rights, and its outcome will likely have significant ramifications across the state.*
Southwestern Swing States (Arizona and Nevada):
Both states are witnessing heated debates over abortion rights with their respective initiatives.*
Nebraska Initiatives 434 and 439:
Nebraska voters face a unique situation with two competing initiatives directly related to abortion, creating a complex battleground for pro-choice and pro-life advocates.*
Local Abortion Measures:
The debate over abortion rights extends beyond the state level, with local jurisdictions like Amarillo, Texas, and San Francisco, California, also grappling with these issues.*
Alaska Ballot Measure 2:
This measure proposes the repeal of the Top-Four RCV system, raising questions about the future of Alaska’s electoral landscape.*
Colorado, Idaho, and Nevada RCV:
These states are considering different variations of ranked-choice voting systems, reflecting the growing interest in alternative electoral methods.*
Arizona Propositions 133 and 140:
Arizona voters will decide on competing amendments aimed at reforming their electoral system, adding another layer of complexity to the state’s political landscape.*
Washington, D.C. Initiative 83:
This initiative seeks to implement RCV in the nation’s capital, potentially changing the dynamics of local elections.*
Eight States: Non-Citizen Voting Ban Amendments:
Eight states, including Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Wisconsin, are considering constitutional amendments that would restrict voting rights to citizens only, raising concerns about voter disenfranchisement.*
Ohio Issue 1:
This measure proposes changes to the Ohio Redistricting Commission, potentially impacting the fairness of future elections.*
California Proposition 36:
California voters will decide on the proposed initiative that aims to revise penalties for certain drug and theft crimes, with implications for criminal justice reform and recidivism rates.*
Florida Amendment 3:
This initiative seeks to legalize marijuana in Florida, prompting debates about the potential economic and social impact.*
Washington Initiatives 2066 and 2117:
These initiatives address energy policy in Washington state, focusing on climate change and energy production.*
Colorado and Kentucky: School Choice Amendments:
Both states are considering amendments related to school choice programs, sparking discussions about the future of public education.*
Nebraska Referendum 435:
Nebraska voters will decide on a referendum regarding private school education scholarships, potentially impacting the funding and accessibility of education.Key Ballot Measure Trends in 2024:
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Abortion:
The 2024 elections will be marked by a record number of 11 ballot measures related to abortion, highlighting the intense nationwide debate on reproductive rights. Ten states, including Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Nevada, and South Dakota, are considering amendments that would enshrine abortion rights into their state constitutions. Nebraska stands out with a measure aimed at limiting the timeframe for legal abortions.*
Electoral Systems:
This election cycle sees a surge in initiatives related to electoral reform, with a record number of statewide measures focused on ranked-choice voting. Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Nevada, and Oregon are among the states contemplating this alternative voting system. Arizona, Montana, and South Dakota also have initiatives related to electoral system changes, indicating a widespread desire for reform.*
Citizenship:
The issue of non-citizen voting has taken center stage in recent years, with six states approving ballot measures to ban it. In 2024, eight states are bringing this issue to voters, raising concerns about immigrant rights and access to the democratic process.The 2024 election promises to be a pivotal moment for American democracy, with numerous ballot measures poised to shape the political and social landscape. By understanding these key measures and emerging trends, voters can engage in informed discussions and participate in shaping the future of their communities and the nation.