On Why Initiatives Matter
One of the checks MisÂsouri votÂers have on the power of state politiÂcians is in jeopÂardy: Sen. Jolie JusÂtus (D–Kansas City) is takÂing aim at the initiative-petition process, which allows MisÂsouriÂans to band together to put laws and conÂstiÂtuÂtional amendÂments on the statewide ballot. This is incredÂiÂbly imporÂtant, because some polÂicy changes that would greatly benÂeÂfit MisÂsouri can be so politÂiÂcally unviÂable that politiÂcians won’t proÂpose them. PetiÂtions cirÂcuÂlatÂing this year would limit emiÂnent domain and impose term limÂits on top state officials.