In response to robust citizen-led initiatives to expand abortion rights, states like Florida are enacting stricter rules for ballot measures. Recent legislation imposes penalties on unregistered petition circulators and limits the number of signatures they can collect. This law follows a lawsuit from Florida Decides Healthcare, which aims to place a Medicaid expansion proposal on the ballot. Critics argue that the measures are aimed at stifling public engagement and control over the amendment process, as officials claim the laws are necessary to prevent petition fraud despite lacking evidence of widespread issues in prior initiatives.
The new law makes the signature-gathering process for ballot initiatives more daunting, raising concerns about voter engagement and the ability to propose new laws.
Holly Bullard criticized the new law stating, 'This isn't about transparency or accountability; this is about control. The citizen-led process...is powerful.'
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