Arizona’s Ballot Madness: 13 Measures You Can’t Afford to Miss!

In the upcoming November election, Arizonans will have the pivotal opportunity to vote on various measures that could potentially change state laws. These propositions cover a wide range of topics, from election processes to criminal justice and property taxes. Let’s delve into the key measures that have garnered enough signatures to secure a place on the ballot and explore their potential impact on Arizona.

1. Proposition 133 – Requiring Partisan Elections

• Prop. 133 aims to institute partisan primary elections in Arizona, mandating that candidates compete within their respective political parties for each office.
• This initiative preserves the current system of separate primary elections for Republican and Democratic candidates, culminating in a general election face-off between the winners of each party.

1. Proposition 140 – Eliminating Partisan Primaries

• On the flip side, Prop. 140 seeks to abolish partisan primaries and establish an electoral system where voters can support any candidate regardless of party affiliation.
• This amendment also introduces ranked-choice voting for races with multiple contenders, promoting a more inclusive and varied election process.

1. Proposition 134 – Creating a Signature Distribution Requirement

• Prop. 134 proposes a change to the current law for citizen-led ballot initiatives, requiring signatures to be collected from all 30 legislative districts.
• Advocates believe this measure will amplify representation across the entire state and prevent certain regions from being overlooked.

1. Proposition 135 – Allowing Legislative Control Over States of Emergency

• This proposition empowers the state legislature to terminate a governor-enacted state of emergency or regulate the governor’s governing powers during such times.
• It stipulates that a state of emergency must be concluded after 30 days, with the legislature having the authority to extend emergency powers in specific circumstances.

1. Proposition 136 – Permitting Challenges to Initiatives After Filing

• Prop. 136 proposes an amendment allowing challenges to initiative measures or constitutional amendments after they have been filed with the Secretary of State.
• This amendment aims to create a mechanism for contesting the constitutionality of measures before they are voted upon by the public.

1. Proposition 137 – Removing Term Limits for Court Judges

• This initiative seeks to abolish term limits for trial and appellate court judges, replacing them with lifetime tenure contingent on maintaining good behavior.
• It also outlines specific criteria under which a judge may be subject to a retention vote, ensuring accountability and transparency in the judicial system.

1. Proposition 138 – Modifying Payment Regulations for Tipped Workers

• Prop. 138 proposes adjustments to payment regulations for tipped workers, allowing employers to pay 25% below minimum wage if tips contribute to meeting the minimum wage threshold.
• This measure aims to streamline the compensation process for tipped employees while ensuring fair and equitable treatment.

1. Proposition 139 – Establishing a State Constitutional Right to Abortion

• Arizona for Abortion Access introduces an amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion until fetal viability, with provisions safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pregnant individuals.

1. Proposition 311 – Instituting a Conviction Fee for First Responder Families

• This proposition establishes a supplemental benefit fund for families of first responders killed in the line of duty, funded by a $20 fee on each criminal conviction.
• The measure highlights the state’s commitment to supporting and honoring the sacrifices of first responders.

1. Propositions 312-315 – Enhancing various aspects of state governance and regulation

• These propositions cover a range of issues, from property tax refunds to combating sex trafficking and increasing border security measures.
• Each proposal addresses a specific area of concern, striving to improve governance and address pressing societal challenges.

As Arizonans prepare to cast their votes on these critical propositions, the outcome of the election could have far-reaching implications for the state’s future. Exercise your right to shape the laws that govern our communities. Let your voice be heard this November.