NY A04239

Proposes a constitutional amendment creating initiative and referendum powers allowing New York voters to propose statutes, propose constitutional amendments, and approve or reject laws passed by the legislature independent of the legislature

Requires petition signatures equal to at least 5% of votes cast for governor in the last gubernatorial election, with at least 5,000 signatures from each of at least three-fifths of congressional districts

Limits initiatives to single-purpose measures and prohibits initiatives for calling elections, appropriating funds (except single-purpose appropriations), naming individuals to office, or identifying private corporations for government functions

Constitutional amendments proposed by initiative must be approved by voters in two successive elections with state senate or assembly candidates on the ballot before taking effect

Prohibits the legislature from repealing, amending, or reconsidering measures adopted by initiative or referendum for two years; after two years, any legislative changes must be approved by voters at a general election

Extends initiative and referendum powers to cities, towns, villages, and counties for local matters, requiring 30,000 signatures or 5% of gubernatorial votes (whichever is less)