This explainer presents both sides based on the measure's text. It does not recommend a vote.
Plain English Summary
SQ 835 would have made it harder for citizens to put new laws on the ballot by requiring more signatures to qualify ballot initiatives. The measure would have increased the number of voter signatures needed from various parts of the state before a citizen-proposed law could appear on a future ballot.
If YES
Higher signature requirements would make it more difficult for groups to qualify ballot measures
confidence: high
Supporters argue this would reduce frivolous or poorly thought-out ballot measures
confidence: medium
Only well-funded or broadly supported initiatives would likely reach the ballot
confidence: high
The initiative process would become more selective and potentially more expensive
confidence: high
If NO
Current signature requirements for ballot initiatives remain unchanged
confidence: high
Citizens retain the same level of access to the initiative process as before
confidence: high
Grassroots groups can continue qualifying measures with existing signature thresholds
confidence: high
The ballot may continue to include the same variety of citizen-proposed measures
confidence: medium
Financial impact
Fiscal impact analysis not yet available. Any costs would likely be minimal administrative expenses related to processing ballot initiatives.
TL;DR
SQ 835 would have required more signatures to put citizen initiatives on the ballot, making the process harder but potentially more selective.
Limitations
Based on measure title only — full text analysis may reveal additional details