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: September 15, 2020
Virginia has a very limited ballot initiative process.
History of the Initiative Process
There have been many attempts to get a statewide Initiative and Referendum Bill introduce, and finally, the first success came in 1981. Virginia passed a bill that gave Initiative and Referendum rights to residents of the City of Hampton.
However, even with many efforts, the state of Virginia does not currently have a statewide Initiative Process.
Local Ballot Initiative Rights in Virginia
Although there are no statewide initiative allowances, Virginia does allow the process at the local level. There are certain counties, cities, and towns, though, that allow voters to petition for an initiative referendum. Check with your local statutes and charters to see which issues can be placed on the ballot.
For more information on getting issues on the ballot and initiative referendum in your city, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.
Get in contact with us today to begin initiative process in Virginia.