Provides for initiative and referendum in New York State for the People as electors to propose or reject laws and submit amendments to the state constitution.
Summary
Bill S03132 proposes amendments to the New York State Constitution to grant electors the power of initiative and referendum. This allows the people to propose laws and constitutional amendments, as well as to approve or reject legislative acts at the polls. The bill outlines the process for initiating such measures, including requirements for petition signatures and the timeline for placing measures on the ballot. It also specifies that certain types of measures, such as those involving appropriations or naming individuals to office, are excluded from this process.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the legislative process in New York by empowering citizens to directly influence lawmaking through initiatives and referendums. It would create a formal mechanism for voters to propose legislation and constitutional amendments, thereby enhancing democratic participation. This change could lead to increased voter engagement and accountability, but it may also complicate the legislative process and introduce challenges related to the management of ballot measures.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S03132 appears to be mixed, with supporters advocating for increased democratic participation and the ability for citizens to have a direct say in governance. However, there are concerns about the potential for misuse of the initiative process and the implications it may have on the legislative balance of power. The lack of voting history and committee discussions indicates that the bill is still in the early stages of consideration.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns from some legislators about the potential for ballot measures to bypass the traditional legislative process and the implications this could have on governance. Critics may argue that allowing direct voter initiatives could lead to poorly drafted laws or amendments that do not adequately address complex issues. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of empowering citizens and providing them with a mechanism to hold their government accountable.
Same As
Provides for initiative and referendum in New York State for the People as electors to propose or reject laws and submit amendments to the state constitution.
Provides for initiative and referendum in New York State for the People as electors to propose or reject laws and submit amendments to the state constitution.
Provides for initiative and referendum in New York State for the People as electors to propose or reject laws and submit amendments to the state constitution.
Provides for initiative and referendum in New York State for the People as electors to propose or reject laws and submit amendments to the state constitution.
Provides for a special statewide election on April 18, 2026, for submitting proposed constitutional amendments to the state's electors (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.