Ballot measure definition

A proposition — also called a ballot measure — is a potential new law, constitutional amendment, or policy question placed on a ballot. Voters approve or reject the measure directly, rather than leaving the decision to elected officials. They happen at the state, county, and city levels and are used to address issues like taxes, bond laws, and wages.

The name for these ballot measures varies by state; California numbers its statewide measures as propositions while Washington calls them initiatives and referenda. Each state specifies its own naming and rules via state constitutions and election laws.

What is the difference between an initiative and a referendum?

An initiative lets voters propose a new law or a change to an existing law by petition. In some states, including California, an initiative can also amend the state constitution.

A referendum lets voters approve or reject a law the state legislature has already passed. The legislature can also refer its own proposed laws to the voters for a decision.

(Both fall under the larger category of “proposition,” which includes any legal/policy question citizens vote on directly.)

How does a proposition get on the ballot?

Most measures qualify by petition. Supporters gather signatures from registered voters, and election officials check the signatures. If the petition has enough signatures — the required number is usually a share of the votes cast in a past statewide election — then the measure qualifies.

In California, a statewide referendum needs 546,651 valid signatures to qualify, equal to 5% of the votes cast for governor in 2022. In Washington, an initiative needs 308,911 valid signatures. That equals 8% of the votes cast for governor in 2024.

State legislatures can also vote to place a measure on the ballot without a petition.