Yes on Prop 129 Single Subject Ballot Initiative Helps Voters and Strengthens Democracy

Proposition 129, which will appear on the General Election ballot this year, will strengthen democracy by enabling voters to express clear intent on a single issue.
 
In recent election cycles, out-of-state special interests have manipulated Arizona’s ballot initiative process by hiding their true motives and misleading voters. They are doing this in two ways. First, by including multiple topics within a single ballot initiative. Second, by giving their initiatives titles that sound benign or even appealing, but do not accurately express how the measure would change Arizona’s laws.   

Proposition 129 would end this type of election fraud by limiting initiatives to a single subject and requiring the subject to be clearly expressed in the title.

Over the years, voters have repeatedly been faced with false choices. Voters have had to make a choice to support or oppose an initiative in its entirety even when they may favor some parts but have serious concerns with others. Arizonans deserve to vote for or against important policy issues, one issue at a time.

Under Proposition 129, groups would retain the same rights that allow them to put measures on the ballot. The only difference is that they would need to separate issues into more than one initiative if the issues are not directly related. This will make the process clearer and fairer as was intended by the framers of the Arizona Constitution.

Proposition 129 also aligns with the long-standing legislative process that requires a bill to address a single subject. This process has worked well in the state legislature for many years by limiting logrolling and increasing transparency for all stakeholders. It will have similar benefits for voters.  

Limiting an initiative measure to a single subject and requiring the subject to be expressed in the title of the initiative measure will empower citizens to make a distinct choice and ensure their voice is heard on each potential change to Arizona law.
 
With Proposition 129 in effect, voters will have the peace of mind that comes with supporting ideas they value without having to accept convoluted measures that cover too many topics. This single-subject initiative plan is good for democracy because it will increase voter participation, by making initiatives easier for voters to understand.