When Initiatives Can Appear on the Ballot

When Initiatives Can Appear on the Ballot

In a handful of states, initiatives may appear on primary or special election ballots. The following states permit initiatives on primary and special election ballots:

Alaska
California
North Dakota
Oklahoma

Six states also permit initiatives on odd-year ballots:

Colorado (only revenue measures)
Maine
Mississippi (note, however, that Mississippi's legislative elections also are held in odd years)
Ohio
Oklahoma
Washington

Voter turnout typically is significantly lower at primary, odd-year and special elections than at regular general elections. When initiatives appear on those ballots, it means a small percentage of registered voters are permitted to dictate policy for the majority. It is preferable that initiatives be voted on by as many people as possible.

Jennie Drage Bowser tracks initiatives and referendums, and may be reached at 303-364-7700 or elections-info@ncsl.org.