A ballot initiative is a process that allows citizens to propose and vote on new laws or amendments to state constitutions directly, bypassing the state legislature. This form of direct democracy requires gathering a predetermined number of signatures to qualify an initiative for the ballot.
Related terms
Referendum: A general vote by the electorate on a single political question that has been referred to them for a direct decision.
Direct Democracy: A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly, without intermediaries or representatives.
Electoral College: The body of electors established by the United States Constitution, which forms every four years for the sole purpose of electing the president and vice president of the United States