In the 2024 U.S. general elections, voters nationwide will make crucial decisions on 2024 ballot measures alongside selecting their political representatives. These ballot measures allow citizens to directly vote on policy issues impacting their daily lives, covering topics from reproductive healthcare to redistricting reforms. This year, voters in 41 states will weigh in on a total of 146 statewide ballot measures, with some of the most notable initiatives addressing hot-button issues like increasing the minimum wage, abortion rights and drug (cannabis and psychedelics) legalization.

---

Arizona Abortion Rights Amendment

In Arizona, Proposition 139 would enshrine the “fundamental right” to abortion in the state’s constitution. The measure, if passed, would prevent the state from restricting abortion before fetal viability, except in cases of compelling state interest, and would protect the medical judgment of healthcare professionals throughout pregnancy if an abortion is needed to protect the patient’s life or health. It would also shield individuals from penalties for assisting someone in obtaining an abortion. 

---

California Minimum Wage Increase Ballot Measure

California voters will have a chance to increase the state’s minimum wage through Proposition 32. California currently has a $16 per hour minimum wage, but Proposition 32 would raise the minimum wage to $18 per hour for employers with 26 or more employees. Employers with less than 26 employees would pay a minimum wage of $17 per hour. Further, the minimum wage would be adjusted for inflation each year beginning in 2027.

---

Florida Abortion Amendment

One of the critical 2024 ballot measures for voters in Florida is Florida Amendment 4, otherwise known as the Florida Abortion Initiative. If enacted, Amendment 4 would add language to the Florida Constitution’s Declaration of Rights that would protect citizens’ rights to abortion. It would forbid state law from prohibiting or penalizing abortion before viability or when necessary to protect a patient’s health. Amendment 4 would maintain the current law that requires healthcare providers to notify parents before performing an abortion for a minor. For this amendment to pass, it would require a 60 percent vote from voters on November 5.

---

Florida Amendment for Legalization of Cannabis

Another key 2024 ballot measure for Florida voters deals with the legalization of cannabis. If enacted, Florida Amendment 3 would legalize recreational cannabis use for those who are 21 and older, including the possession of up to 3 ounces. Additionally, existing Medical Cannabis Treatment Centers would be allowed to sell cannabis for personal use. State-licensed businesses could be authorized to cultivate and distribute the product as well. A ‘vote’ would be in support of this amendment; a ‘no’ would indicate a desire to maintain the current system of cannabis solely for medical use.

---

Could Massachusetts Legalize Psychedelics?

Massachusetts voters will see numerous ballot questions on Election Day, including Question 4, which would allow individuals over the age of 21 to grow, possess, and use, certain natural psychedelic substances under certain circumstances. Specifically, a yes vote would permit adults over 21 to use specific natural psychedelic substances under licensed supervision, allow them to grow and possess limited amounts of these substances at home, and establish a commission to oversee regulation of these substances. The measure would further create a 15% state excise tax for the sale of natural psychedelic substances. 

---

Ohio Redistricting Amendment 

In Ohio, Issue 1, a prominent 2024 ballot measure, aims to change the redistricting process for congressional and state districts. If enacted, this amendment would eliminate the previous Ohio Redistricting Commission and instead initiate the creation of the Ohio Citizens Redistricting Commission (CRC). The commission would have 15 members: five Republicans, five Democrats, and five individuals who are independents or members of other political parties. This Committee would be responsible for developing and adopting redistricting plans in Ohio. Unlike the current commission, which includes the governor, state auditor, secretary of state, and others appointed by state legislative leaders, the amendment seeks to create a commission that omits elected officials.

---