When it comes to voting on laws, there are two main types of votes: initiative and referendum. Each type of vote has its own unique process and purpose. Here we will go over both the initiative and referendum process, and explain the differences between the two.
Initiative
Initiative voting is a process by which citizens can propose new laws or amendments to existing laws. To put a proposed law up for a vote, the citizens must gather a certain number of signatures on a petition. The exact number of signatures required depends on the state, but it is typically high enough that only a few dedicated citizens can get a proposal on the ballot.
Once a proposed law has been submitted for a vote, the citizens have the opportunity to debate and discuss the merits of the law. The final vote is usually taken by mail or at the polls.
pros:
-Citizens have a direct say in what laws are passed.
-Can propose new laws or amendments to existing laws.
cons:
-Can be expensive and time consuming to get a proposal on the ballot.
-May not reflect the views of the majority of citizens.
Referendum
Referendum voting is a process by which citizens can vote on laws that have already been passed by the legislature. To put a law up for a referendum vote, citizens must gather a certain number of signatures on a petition. The exact number of signatures required depends on the state, but it is typically high enough that only a few dedicated citizens can get a proposal on the ballot.
Once a proposed law has been submitted for a referendum vote, the citizens have the opportunity to debate and discuss the merits of the law. The final vote is usually taken by mail or at the polls.
Pros:
-Can overturn laws that are unpopular or undemocratic.
-Citizens have a say in how their tax money is spent.
Cons:
-May not reflect the views of the majority of citizens.
-Can be expensive and time consuming to get a proposal on the ballot.
-Laws passed by referendum can be more difficult to change than laws passed by initiative.
What’s the Difference?
The main difference between initiative and referendum voting is that initiative voting allows citizens to propose new laws, while referendum voting allows citizens to vote on existing laws. Both processes are important in ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.
However, it is important to note that neither process is perfect. Initiative voting can be expensive and time consuming to get a proposal on the ballot, and referendum voting may not reflect the views of the majority of citizens. However, both processes are vital in ensuring that the will of the people is heard.
Famous Examples
There are countless examples of both initiative and referendum voting, but here are a few famous examples:
-The Berlin Wall was brought down through a referendum vote. This was a historic moment in which the people of East Germany were able to vote on whether they wanted to keep the Berlin Wall or not.
-The UK’s Brexit referendum was a vote on whether the UK should leave the European Union. This was a highly divisive issue, and the final result was close.
-The United States Constitution was drafted by a group of citizens who gathered signatures for an initiative petition.
-The Affordable Care Act was passed by Congress, but it was eventually repealed by a referendum vote.
-California’s Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage, was overturned by a referendum vote. This was a major victory for the gay rights movement.
-France’s “Yellow Vest” protests were started in response to a proposed fuel tax increase that was announced as part of an initiative to reduce carbon emissions.
-The Irish “Repeal the Eighth” campaign was started in response to a referendum vote that banned abortion. This campaign was successful and abortion is now legal in Ireland.
-The “red card” referendum in Switzerland would have allowed citizens to veto laws that were passed by the government, but it was rejected by the voters.
Which Type of Voting is Better?
That depends on what you want to achieve. If you want to propose a new law, initiative voting is the way to go. If you want to vote on an existing law, referendum voting is the way to go. Whichever process you choose, make sure to get involved and have your say!