What is a popular referendum?

A popular referendum is a process that allows voters to directly influence legislation by signing a petition to place a proposed measure on the ballot. This mechanism enables citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, as they can challenge or approve laws passed by their state legislature. By gathering a certain number of signatures from registered voters, proponents of a measure can put it to a vote, allowing the populace to decide the fate of specific legislation.

This participatory approach enhances civic engagement and ensures that the electorate has a say in laws that affect them. It contrasts with other options: the process does not grant state legislatures sole control over ballot measures, nor is it a type of initiative that bypasses legislative input, as it explicitly entails soliciting public support to address legislation. Additionally, it does not diminish voters' ability to influence legislation; rather, it empowers them by providing a pathway to directly vote on issues that matter to them.