Proposes a constitutional amendment modifying provisions for amending the Constitution
One of the significant impacts of HJR68 is its alteration of the signature threshold required for placing proposed constitutional amendments on the ballot. The proposed change would reduce the number of signatures necessary from eight percent to seven percent of legal voters in two-thirds of the congressional districts of the state. This adjustment aims to facilitate easier access for citizens wishing to propose constitutional amendments, potentially increasing citizen engagement in the amendment process.
HJR68 is a proposed joint resolution introduced to amend the Missouri Constitution concerning the process of voter initiative petitions and referendums. The bill seeks to repeal existing provisions in Section 50 and 52(b) of Article III of the Missouri Constitution, which currently regulate the qualifications of voters involved in initiative processes and the power of the governor in relation to measures referred to the public. If adopted, the resolution would replace these sections with new language clarifying that only U.S. citizens residing in Missouri and properly registered to vote can participate in such initiatives.
A notable point of contention surrounding HJR68 is the implications of restricting voting on initiative petitions solely to U.S. citizens. Critics may view this provision as potentially disenfranchising non-citizen residents, limiting their ability to influence local governance through initiative efforts. Furthermore, there are concerns about the clauses that establish the requirements for petition filings and the effective dates for constitutional measures that can be seen as tightening procedural controls over the initiative process, which some advocates may oppose as a hindrance to democratic participation.
The voting history for HJR68 remains incomplete at this time. The resolution requires discussion and potential amendments before facing a vote in the Missouri legislature.