List of Washington (state) ballot measures

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The state of Washington has a long history of direct democracy through the use of ballot measures. These measures allow citizens to vote directly on proposed laws, amendments, and other governmental actions. The process includes initiatives, referendums, and advisory votes.

Types of Ballot Measures

Washington state recognizes several types of ballot measures:

• Initiatives to the People: These are proposed laws or amendments to the state constitution that are placed on the ballot after a petition process.
• Initiatives to the Legislature: These are proposed laws or amendments that are submitted to the state legislature. If the legislature does not adopt the measure, it is placed on the ballot.
• Referendums: These allow citizens to approve or reject laws passed by the legislature.
• Advisory Votes: These are non-binding votes that allow citizens to express their opinion on tax increases passed by the legislature.

Historical Overview

Washington has used ballot measures since the early 20th century. The first initiative, Initiative 1, was passed in 1914 and dealt with the regulation of public utilities. Since then, hundreds of measures have been placed on the ballot, covering a wide range of issues from taxation to marijuana legalization.

Notable Ballot Measures

• Initiative 502 (2012): Legalized the recreational use of marijuana.
• Referendum 74 (2012): Approved same-sex marriage.
• Initiative 200 (1998): Prohibited affirmative action in public employment, education, and contracting.

Process

The process for getting a measure on the ballot involves several steps: 1. **Drafting**: The measure must be drafted in legal language. 2. **Filing**: The measure is filed with the Washington Secretary of State. 3. **Signature Gathering**: Proponents must gather a required number of signatures from registered voters. 4. **Verification**: The signatures are verified by the Secretary of State. 5. **Ballot Placement**: If the signatures are sufficient, the measure is placed on the ballot for the next general election.

Recent Measures

In recent years, Washington voters have considered measures on topics such as gun control, carbon emissions, and healthcare. The outcomes of these votes have had significant impacts on state policy and governance.

Related Pages

• Washington State Legislature
• Washington Secretary of State
• Direct democracy
• Initiative
• Referendum
• Advisory vote

See Also

• List of ballot measures by state
• History of direct democracy in the United States
• Washington (state) politics

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