If there is an issue that you think should become a law, you don’t have to wait until your state legislature agrees with you. You can let the voters decide by filing a ballot initiative. Your direct action can qualify your measure to be on the ballot in the next statewide election.
Last updated on: December 9, 2020
The following is a brief overview of the initiative process in the state of Indiana. Please refer to the Indiana State Constitution for more details.
Power with the State Legislature
Indiana does not allow for statutory initiatives or constitutional amendment initiatives in its constitution.
According to Article VI, Section 1, the state legislature is the only group with the power to enact a law. According to Article, Section 1, an amendment to the constitution must also be proposed by someone in state legislature.
Across the state as a whole, power falls to the legislature. Because of the way the state constitution is worded, Indiana would require a constitutional amendment to allow the initiative process.
Local Allowances
The state constitution also does not allow for a recall vote on state or local officials.
All ballot initiatives must come from the state legislature.