In The News 
Initiative backers submit paperwork promising a busy 2010 cycle
An early glance at the ballot measures that could be headed for the ballot in 2010 point to a busy political season, and a number of very expensive, high-profile initiative campaigns.
Reproductive freedom advocates study Nev. Initiative
Abortion and civil rights advocates said Thursday that they are reviewing the description wording of a proposed initiative petition that seeks to define a person and override Nevada's abortion laws.
Immigration foes pledge new bill, voter initiative
Accusing the federal government of hampering local attempts to combat illegal immigration, state Sen. Russell Pearce, Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio and some of Arizona's most hawkish public figures on border security pledged on Wednesday to redouble their efforts with new legislation and a citizens initiative.
I-1033: Too much cross to bear, religious leaders say
The potential for social service cuts from Initiative 1033 has reunited a once formidable ecumenical network of Seattle-area religious leaders: Its message: I-1033 is too much of a cross to bear.
Two Missouri ballot initiatives on anti-choice-related issues OK’d
Two ballot initiatives concerning abortion were approved for circulation this week by the Missouri secretary of state.
Medical-marijuana rule may impact Ariz. Initiative
The local leader of an Arizona medical-marijuana initiative called it a "sea change" for the movement Monday when federal authorities announced they'll no longer pursue prosecutions against individuals using the drug for medical purposes in states that allow it.
Stem Cells in Ballot Drive
Since word of the initiative campaign to allow embryonic stem cell research has spread, people across South Dakota from both political parties have approached David Volk offering support. Almost invariably they bear tales of family members and friends who have suffered or died of diseases embryonic stem cell research offers hope of curing, Volk says.
National ‘Personhood’ Backers Barnstorm Montana With One Big Exception
Three major players in the absolutist anti-choice movement headed to Big Sky Country last weekend to push a second attempt at a state ballot measure to ban abortion without exception. But the confab is also as noteworthy for the obvious absence of a prominent group in the egg-as-a-person campaign.
Initiative 1033: Tim Eyman Measure Will Trim Government, but at What Cost?
Stabilizing government spending and bringing some property tax relief are the goals of Initiative 1033, coming before voters Nov. 3. But critics of Tim Eyman’s latest ballot proposal say it would unfairly cripple public services in Kitsap County and across the state.
Voters to settle issue of rights for same-sex couples
Referendum 71 is the biggest civil rights issue placed in the hands of Washington voters since an anti-equal opportunity measure reached the ballot a decade ago.
