Missouri House Bill HJR104

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting an initiative measure approved by the voters to be amended or repealed by the General Assembly except by referendum

Impact

The implications of HJR104 could be significant for the relationship between state legislators and the citizenry. By requiring a referendum for any changes to voter-approved initiatives, the bill seeks to empower voters and provide them with greater control over crucial policy decisions. This could lead to a more robust engagement from voters in the legislative process, as they would need to participate in any future alterations of these measures. However, this could also complicate the legislative process and potentially hinder the flexibility of lawmakers to adapt laws as needed in response to changing circumstances.

Summary

HJR104 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to prevent the General Assembly from amending or repealing initiative measures that have been approved by voters, unless such changes are made by another referendum. This initiative aims to uphold the integrity of voter-driven measures by ensuring that once voters have made a decision, their will cannot be easily overridden by the legislature. Proponents argue that this provides protection for democratic processes and reinforces the power of the electorate in influencing state laws.

Contention

Despite its intentions, HJR104 has stirred debate among legislators and advocacy groups. Critics argue that the bill could lead to gridlock, where lawmakers are unable to make necessary amendments to initiatives that may become outdated or problematic over time. They assert that legislatures should retain the ability to adapt laws, particularly in complex situations where public initiatives may not account for all variables. Thus, this bill raises fundamental questions about the balance between direct democracy and legislative responsiveness, highlighting a tension in the governance structure that warrants further examination.