The document discusses the initiative and referendum process (I&R), which allows citizens in some states to directly propose legislation or constitutional amendments via petition, and vote to repeal existing laws. It argues that I&R is needed in Texas to give citizens more voice and limit the influence of special interests, citing polls showing most Texans support I&R. It outlines the process required to amend the Texas constitution to establish I&R rights for citizens.
18. I&R – Poll Question ““ In 24 states, citizens can sign a petition to put laws or constitutional amendments on the ballot to be decided by the voters at a statewide election. This process is known as initiative and referendum. Would you favor or oppose the initiative and referendum process in your state?” Favor_____ Oppose____ Undecided____ Pulse Opinion Research random survey of 500 adult Texans, July 2010 12
29. William Janklow Governor of South Dakota 1979-1987 "The world is spattered with unrest: rebel forces, civil disobedience, war, civil war, tyranny, and genocide. Any place average citizens have no voice or are losing ground in the fight to control their own lives is one place too many. If we believe in liberty, if we believe in the dignity of the human spirit, if we believe in justice for all, then citizen lawmaking is as essential to the future as it was to the past. This process is terribly important to the well being of this country. It must accompany us into the new century. By reviewing and honing the process, and most importantly by understanding and using these tools of democracy, we can preserve and even expand every citizen’s right to have a voice in the government."