2018 Ballot Initiatives

The 2018’s Florida ballot will include several ballot initiatives that will have a huge impact on the future of Floridians. Here is a breakdown of the amendments impacting access to reproductive rights:

Amendment 4: Voting Restoration Amendment

YES

Amendment 4 restores the eligibility to vote for the 1.4 million Floridians permanently excluded from voting because of a prior felony conviction. Florida is one of only four states with a lifetime ban on voting. This amendment restores the eligibility to vote for felons who fully complete their entire sentences, including any probation, parole and restitution. These are our family members, friends, and neighbors who have earned the opportunity to participate in and give back to their communities.

Amendment 5: Supermajority Vote Required To Impose, Authorize, Or Raise State Taxes Or Fees

NO

Amendment 5 provides that no state tax or fee may be imposed, authorized, or raised by the Legislature without two-thirds approval of each legislative chamber and the governor’s approval. Florida currently has the wrong priorities, giving special tax breaks to corporations while spending less on public education than 48 other states, allowing millions of people to go without health insurance, and barely covering basic services for senior citizens and public safety. This misguided proposal locks in these failed priorities, making it bad for everyday Floridians.

Amendment 6: Rights Of Crime Victims; Judges

NO

Amendment 6, aka “Marsy’s Law”, creates new constitutional rights for corporations. It would give big businesses, like Walmart, a right to appear in court with their high-powered lawyers when they accuse people of even relatively minor crimes like shoplifting, and have a say in sentencing and bail hearings. Currently Florida’s Constitution explicitly provides for a careful balance of protections and rights of both victims and the accused. Amendment 6 would upset that balance. As an example, Marsy’s Law does not recognize the difference between victims of physical/sexual assault, and corporations that have experienced shoplifting. Although well intentioned, it is poorly drafted, overly broad, and misleading to voters. It has far-reaching unintended consequences that would be disastrous if implemented.