Bill > HR462

This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to establish a direct initiative and referendum process in Georgia, allowing citizens to enact, repeal, or amend general statutory laws through a petition process. Under the proposed amendment, citizens can put a proposed law or constitutional change on the ballot by collecting signatures from at least 8% of registered voters (for statutory changes) or 10% of registered voters (for constitutional amendments), with signatures required from at least half of the state's congressional districts. The proposed initiative must be filed at least 180 days before a general election, and if approved by 60% (for statutes) or two-thirds (for constitutional amendments) of voters, it becomes law. The amendment includes significant restrictions on what can be proposed through this process, such as prohibiting initiatives related to appropriations, retirement systems, public safety, and certain other specific areas. The General Assembly would be responsible for establishing additional procedural details to implement this new direct democracy mechanism. If a proposed initiative is rejected, a similar proposal cannot be brought forward for three years.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71063