Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements to be from each congressional district for initiative petition.
Impact
The proposed amendment seeks to ensure that the signature thresholds for initiatives reflect the actual number of congressional districts in existence. Specifically, it modifies the requirement that no more than one-fifth of the total signatures required for a petition may come from any single district. This adjustment is intended to make it easier for constituents from each district to participate in the initiative process while preventing any single district from disproportionately influencing the outcome.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 26 (HC26) proposes an amendment to Section 273 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890. The primary aim of this legislative proposal is to adjust the signature requirements necessary for an initiative petition so that they are proportional to the current number of congressional districts within the state. This change is significant as it seeks to modernize the initiative process by maintaining equitable representation across the districts when constituents advocate for constitutional amendments through initiatives.
Contention
Discussions surrounding HC26 may raise concerns about the potential impacts on local governmental powers and how initiatives are perceived across different communities. Supporters argue that the bill enhances democratic engagement by allowing more equitable access for citizens wishing to propose changes to state law. Conversely, opponents might express worries that the adjustments could still create loopholes or exploitative pathways for larger political groups to exert undue influence through regional disparities.
Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements from each congressional district for an initiative petition to the number of current districts.
Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements from each congressional district for an initiative petition to the number of current districts.
Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements from each congressional district for an initiative petition to the number of current congressional districts.
Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements from each congressional district for an initiative petition to the number of current congressional districts.
Constitution; conform initiative signature requirements from each congressional district for an initiative petition to the number of current congressional districts.