HB14 – Citizen-Led Ballot Initiative and Constitutional Amendment Process

Background:  HB14 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow Alabama citizens to propose general laws and constitutional amendments through a ballot initiative process. For general laws, it requires a preliminary petition signed by at least 1,000 qualified voters and includes a $1,000 filing fee (refundable if the initiative is adopted). The Secretary of State would verify signatures and publish proposals, and the Legislature could adopt the proposal or offer an alternate measure for the ballot. If an initiative fails, it generally cannot be resubmitted for two years.

Our Position: We support HB14. Alabamians should have a meaningful, democratic pathway to advance reforms when the Legislature fails to act, especially on issues involving civil rights, fairness, and government accountability. A citizen initiative process can expand civic participation and strengthen democratic legitimacy by giving voters a direct voice in shaping laws and constitutional amendments.