Missouri’s conservative GOP General Assembly is at it again. A bill that failed to pass in the recent legislative session is sure to return as soon as lawmakers reconvene. This law would restrict taxpayers’ ability to make their voices heard as they have since 1907. It is intended to and would certainly upend majority rule. The language of the legislation reads: “Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to: Allow only U.S. citizens to vote on ballot measures”; (Only citizens can vote now.) “Restrict the legislature’s power to propose constitutional amendments and undo laws approved by voters.” (Huh?) “Ensure disabled individuals have access to ballot measures.” (They already do.) “Require that constitutional amendments pass by 57% majority statewide.” Here is the real purpose, tucked at the very end: to raise the bar from a simple majority to a much more difficult-to-reach 57%. The wording is intentionally confusing, and the order of its provisions is intended to make Missourians believe that defeating it would authorize noncitizens to vote. Beware: Don’t fall for this deceitful provision to eliminate your ability to initiate changes that 50% of Missouri’s voters support. Save Missouri’s initiative petition rights.

Kathy Whited