SUMMARY

In a handful of states, voters weighed in on reproductive rights two years after Roe was overturned. In seven of them, voters expanded or protected the right to an abortion. But in three states, abortion bans will remain in place.

About a half-dozen states weighed the legalization of marijuana for either recreational or medical use. About two dozen measures were focused on future elections, including several specifically barring noncitizens from voting. Other state measures affect wages, taxes, housing and education. See the "For More" section below to learn more about these ballot initiatives.

Key terms

ballot initiative — a direct vote by the electorate on a proposal, issue or law

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News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. What states voted to overturn abortion bans? Which states voted to keep abortion bans in place?
2. Who are the different individuals and groups involved in ballot measures before they are passed and after the results come out?
3. How does the process work when it comes to challenging laws or ballot initiatives that have been passed?
4. When was Roe v. Wade overturned?
5. Why might the ballot measure that passed in Missouri be challenged in court?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

While abortion was on the ballot in several states, there were also many other ballot measures. Do you think ballot measures are a positive aspect of voting and democracy? Explain.

Media literacy: What additional questions would you have liked to ask the guest?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?

FOR MORE

What students can do:

Click here to see ballot initiative results in your state.

To dig deeper into ballot initiatives in election 2024, choose one of the following articles to read:

1. Voters face dozens of ballot measures affecting life, death, taxes and more
2. Marijuana legalization fails in Florida as numerous states approve citizen voting amendments to learn more
3. California voters pass initiative to make some shoplifting and drug offenses felonies
4. US state ballot proposals on minimum wage hikes face mixed results

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