State House panel backs bill limiting ballot initiatives

TALLAHASSEE — In the latest chapter in years of battles about amending the Florida Constitution, a House panel Tuesday backed a proposal that would limit the subjects that could be included in ballot initiatives.

The proposal (HJR 1127) would limit citizens’ initiatives to “matters relating to procedural subjects or to the structure of the government or of this Constitution.”

Florida voters in recent years have approved high-profile initiatives about issues such as raising the minimum wage and broadly legalizing medical marijuana. Such initiatives would be barred in the future if the House proposal is ultimately approved.

Sponsor Mike Beltran, R-Lithia, said the Florida Constitution is a “revered document” that shouldn’t be used to decide policy issues that can be resolved in the Legislature.

“Things that are policy that can be addressed by the Legislature should be addressed by the Legislature,” Beltran said before the House Public Integrity & Elections Committee approved the measure.

But opponents said the proposal would take away the ability of citizens to make decisions. They also contend that groups have needed to use the initiative process because lawmakers have ignored the wishes of voters on policy issues.

“A major constitutional right is being eliminated (under the proposal). Why?” said Rich Templin, a lobbyist for the Florida AFL-CIO. “The Constitution belongs to the people.”

If Beltran’s proposal passes the Legislature, it would go on the November ballot because it would require voter approval. Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Sanford, has filed an identical proposal (SJR 1412) in the Senate.

To pass, it would require 60% approval.