The Most Important Things on Your Ballot That No One is Talking About

Can you believe there’s no federal law prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity? Did you know slavery is technically still legal in Colorado? Or that Alabama may allow the Ten Commandments to be displayed on public property -- including public schools?

Everyone knows they’ll be voting on candidates in the midterms, but not enough of us are talking about the fact that they can also approve or reject state-specific ballot measures. Otherwise known as amendments, questions, or propositions, ballot measures cover a wide range of social and economic issues, and can end up having more of an effect on your community than you might realize. This lasting impact makes ballot measures just as important as the candidates you choose to create them.

The emphasis on state and local elections has never been greater than it is this year. With Election Day quickly approaching (Tuesday, November 6!), it’s important to take some time to familiarize yourself with the ballot measures that are up for consideration in your district this fall. Look for your state’s proposed ballot measures -- and don’t forget to take 2 minutes and register to vote!

1. Colorado Will Decide Whether or Not to Ban Slavery -- in 2018

Amendment A proposes to remove part of the Colorado Constitution that says slavery and involuntary servitude are valid punishments for those who commit a crime. So essentially, a vote in favor of this amendment is a vote in favor of banning slavery in the state for good.

2. Massachusetts Will Decide Whether or Not Gender Identity Discrimination is a Punishable Offense

Massachusetts is tackling gender identity bias on the state level by voting to uphold Senate Bill 2407, an anti-discrimination bill that was passed in 2016. SB2407 moved to make restrooms in public spaces -- such as hotels, restaurants, and stores -- more inclusive for transgender citizens. Violating this policy would result in a fine up to $100, up to 30 days in prison, or both.

3. California Proposes Taxing Millionaires to Support Citizens Experiencing Homelessness

Voting “yes” on Prop 2 supports a one percent tax on millionaires in order to raise $2 billion for homelessness prevention housing for citizens in need of mental health services. One of four propositions related to housing on the California ballot this fall, it moves to make these services more affordable and accessible to those in need.

4. Alabama Will Decide If the Ten Commandments Belong in Public Schools

A “yes” vote supports amending the state constitution to authorize the display of the Ten Commandments on public property -- including public schools. Similar measures have been proposed by a number of elected officials in Alabama for years, but never reached the official ballot until now.

5. Colorado Proposes Lowering the Age to Run for State Office

Voting “yes” on this amendment supports reducing the age qualification from 25 to 21 for citizens running for Colorado state legislature. It might not sound like much of a difference on paper, but this shift could inspire more states around the country to make the same proposition. More young people in office, please!

6. Florida Could Restore Voting Rights for People With Prior Felony Convictions

It’s no surprise that election and campaign policy is one of this season’s hottest trends. Amendment 4 moves to restore the right to vote for people with prior felony convictions upon the completion of their sentences -- unless they were convicted of murder or a felony sexual offense.

7. Louisiana Proposes a Five-Year Waiting Period for Convicted Felons Interested in Running for Public Office

Voting “yes” on Amendment 1 means prohibiting convicted felons from seeking or holding public office until five years after the completion of their sentences, unless they have already been pardoned.

8. Marijuana Could Become Legal in Michigan

This one is simple: voting “yes” supports legalizing the use and possession of marijuana for recreational purposes for citizens aged 21 and over. If passed, Prop 1 would also legalize the growth and distribution of the drug, but would enforce a significant sales tax on retailers.

9. Nevada Voters May Eliminate Sales Tax on Feminine Hygiene Products

Voting in favor of Question 2 would eliminate the state’s sales tax on feminine hygiene products like sanitary pads and tampons by January 2019. Commonly described as “the pink tax,” this fee is one of the many systematic disadvantages faced by women around the country every day and often goes unnoticed by consumers.

10. Nevada Proposes Automatic Voter Registration at the DMV

This ballot measure moves to provide automatic voter registration of eligible citizens when receiving certain services from the Department of Motor Vehicles. While it may not make the overall DMV experience more enjoyable, you can leave knowing you’ve taken one step closer to making a difference in your community.

11. Public Funding for Abortion May Be Prohibited in Oregon

The right to choose is at the center of some of the most vigorously contested debates in our nation’s history. If approved, Measure 106 would prohibit public funds from being spent on abortions. This means restricting access to abortion for low-income Oregonians and thousands of public servants, including teachers, nurses, and firefighters.

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