Missouri judge denies petition to put initiative-protection amendment on ballot

In Jefferson City, a Cole County Circuit Court judge rejected a petition that sought to let Missouri voters decide on an amendment designed to fortify citizen-initiated laws and constitutional changes. The amendment, promoted by Respect Missouri Voters, would have required an 80% legislative vote to repeal voter-approved initiatives and barred the legislature from raising signature thresholds or shortening collection periods.

Secretary of State Denny Hoskins had already removed the measure from the ballot, citing violations of the state constitution's single-subject rule and republican-form requirement. Attorney Chuck Hatfield contended the amendment focused exclusively on protecting initiative power, but the attorney general’s office, represented by Kathleen Hunker, argued it merged unrelated topics. Judge Daniel Green concurred, noting the proposal would enact sweeping reforms across multiple constitutional sections. Respect Missouri Voters announced plans to appeal the decision.