What do the terms initiative referendum and recall mean for voters?

What do the terms initiative referendum and recall mean for voters?

In 1911, California voters approved the constitutional processes of initiative, referendum, and recall. Through these processes, voters can adopt a change in law (an initiative), disapprove a law passed by the Legislature (a referendum), or remove an elected official from office (a recall).

What is the power of initiative?

The right of (legislative) initiative is the constitutionally defined power to propose a new law (bill). The right of initiative is usually attributed to parliaments, which in most countries have the right to make law proposals, alone or sharing this right with the government.

How is a popular referendum similar to an initiative?

The popular referendum is similar to the initiative in that both are triggered by petitions, but there are important differences. Legislatures are often required to refer certain measures to the ballot for voter approval.

How many states have a popular referendum process?

Twenty-four states have citizen initiative processes. The popular referendum process allows voters to approve or repeal an act of the legislature. Twenty-three states have popular referendum processes.

What happens if you reject a referendum in a state?

If voters reject the law, it is voided and does not take effect. 24 states have the popular referendum. Most of them are also initiative states. A third form of referendum, the advisory referendum, is rarely used.

What are the steps in the referendum process?

These guidelines may include an application process, registering a certain number of sponsors, submitting the full text and an explanation of the measure, affidavits, the office or offices to file with, registering a proponent or opposition organization, campaign finance issues and the process for withdrawing a referendum.