Category Archives: Politics

This question is different from the eight others because it is a referendum, not an initiative petition. The sponsors are not trying to create something new, they are wanting to reverse something that has already been enacted. And that something … Continue reading →

Question #8 would repeal much of the legalization, regulation, and taxation of the retail sale of adult recreational use marijuana. It would also change the penalties for possession of marijuana; it does not, however, change the rules around medical marijuana. … Continue reading →

Question #7 would allow single-family homes to be built on lots of 5,000 square feet or more in residential areas, subject to reasonable local regulation of certain aspects of those homes.  This question, colloquially known as the “StarterHome” initiative, is … Continue reading →

Question #6 creates a “Nature for All” fund that would receive some state taxes collected on the sale and use of sporting goods and recreational vehicles, and admission to golf courses. Specifically,  It earmarks 50% of state sales taxes on … Continue reading →

Question #5 would change the limit on state revenue collection, tying it to prior year collections plus average wage and salary growth, and provide for a rebate of revenue exceeding that limit. First of all, what’s involved here is a … Continue reading →

Question #4 would permit eligible individuals to register to vote or update their voter registration address on Election Day. An individual would have to provide proof of residency, sign a written oath, and acknowledge that providing false information is a … Continue reading →

Question 3 would eliminate political party primaries for state elections and instead establish a system where there would be a single, all-party primary in which all candidates (regardless of their party affiliation) would be listed on one ballot. Voters could … Continue reading →

Question #2 would that employees of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (“CPCS”) are permitted to engage in collective bargaining with their employer (and also that after executing a collective bargaining agreement, CPCS request the appropriation necessary to fund such … Continue reading →

This question would make most records held by the  Legislature and the Office of the Governor public  records under the Massachusetts Public Records  Law. It creates two new exemptions, one for “policy development” and one for communication between the legislature … Continue reading →

Some of my loyal readers remember that every two years I like to provide summaries of the Ballot questions, and arguments for why one should vote for or against them. For the 2026 Ballot, Massachusetts has an unusually large number … Continue reading →