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Session: State Capitol, Room 502 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-3424 Fax: (907) 465-3793 Send E-Mail Interim: 50 Front Street, Suite 203 Ketchikan, AK 99901 Phone: (907) 247-4672 Fax: (907) 225-7157 |
Initiative and Referendum Petitions
Updated: May 5, 1999
Contact: Kyle Johansen, Aide to Representative Bill Williams, at (907) 465-3424.
HJR 7 and HB 45 were introduced to ensure statewide consideration and discussion of an initiative petition before it is put on the ballot. The legislation requires signatures equal to 10% ballots cast in the prior General Election (same as current law) and 4% of ballots cast from 30 of the 40 Election Districts.
In past elections the greatest support for initiatives has come from one general area of the State, the Anchorage-MatSu region. The legislation is intended to further statewide discussion of an issue before it reaches the voters on Election Day.
Alaska's population distribution is much different now than it was when our Constitution was approved. Today, initiative supporters can collect signatures in a limited area and get a question on the ballot. The legislation will facilitate a broader discussion of potential ballot questions, thus helping to create a balanced question which considers effects on all the citizens of Alaska.
As we write laws in the Capitol many perspectives are taken into account as issues are discussed through the committee process. During this process healthy debate, from representatives of all areas of the state, is conducted. This healthy debate gives all members opportunity to see how their lawmaking will affect areas that they do not represent. Pertinent questions are asked and legislation is constantly amended to take into account those concerns.
Currently, initiatives can be put onto the ballot with very limited perspective. Constructive analysis of a question, from a statewide perspective, does not currently occur. Right now signatures equaling 10% of ballots cast is required. In addition, initiative sponsors must obtain one signature from 27 districts. One signature from a district is hardly representative of a districts opinion on an issue.
In closing, this legislation would get people from all over the state more involved in the initiative process. This in turn can create an atmosphere of healthy debate and ensure questions which reach the ballot have a statewide perspective.