Ballot Propositions and Referenda for 2012 Voter Guide
By Michael Bryan
Here at BlogForArizona we generally don't do endorsements. We believe in presenting readers with good information and letting them make up their own minds. In addition, doing so can be problematic because of the diversity of views of our bloggers. Finally, there is something ineffably subjective and human about choosing another person to represent you that mere analysis of positions or policies or biographies cannot really capture.
But when it comes to ballot questions, we're on firmer ground. The language of the ballot question is what it is. Sometimes a good deal of legal or institutional knowledge is required to understand the likely effect of the new law, which not every voter has. So, to help voters fully participate in this aspect of Arizona's Progressive heritage, BlogForArizona presents a recommended list of positions on the ballot questions this year.
There is a diversity of opinion on a few of the citizen inititiative Props here on the blog. Some members feel that the permanent sales tax must be passed, and our BlueMeanie feels the top two primary would be a disaster. Both Democrats and Republicans feel that Open Primaries will be problematic, which is a point in favor of the reform, in my view. In fairness, I should note that my recomendations for these two citizen initiatives go against the majority opinion in the Democratic establishment. So be it. There will be links to alternative views on these Props as they become available.
Update 10/21/12: I've been convinced by colleagues, friends, and analysts that the unintended consequences of Prop 121 would outweight any benefits. I have changed by recommendation to NO.
Though not a perfect guide, if the State Legislature has referred the question to the ballot, you should vote NO, unless very strong evidence convinces you otherwise. If it is a citizen petition, give it due consideration before voting NO. You can see the approved ballot language for all the measures here.
| Prop 114: Crime Victim Protection From Liability | NO |
| Prop 115: Judicial Selection | NO |
| Prop 116: Personal Business Property Tax Exemption Amount | NO |
| Prop 117: Property Tax Assesed Value Limit | NO |
| Prop 118: Pemanent State Land Endowment Fund, Distribution | NO |
| Prop 119: State Land Trust Exchanges | YES |
| Prop 120: State Sovereignty | NO |
| Prop 204: Sales Tax Extension | NO |
| Prop 121: Top Two Primaries | NO |
| Prop [Not Yet Numbered]: Right to Reject Federal Laws | NO |
Read on for full explanations of recommended votes…