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
New Mexico citizens do not have the power of initiative statewide. However, citizens can propose amendments or protest any laws enacted by the legislature through a popular referendum.
View more detailed information about legislative powers and referendum in Article IV of the New Mexico Constitution.
Popular Referendum
Citizens have the right to protest certain laws introduced by the legislature by petitioning. That is to say, you may have the right to protest any laws enacted. At least four months before the next general election submit your petition protesting any laws to the secretary of state and include no less than ten percent of qualified voters’ votes cast in the last general election.
The Secretary of State will submit your protest to the electorate in the next general election. You need at least a forty percent majority rule.