Massachusetts residents will head to the polls on November 8 to cast votes for President of the United States, as well as various state and county offices.
Beyond these races, four ballot questions deserve careful consideration from voters, as they will shape policy across the Commonwealth.
All voters are encouraged to take a position on each of the four questions presented.
This piece aims not to advocate for Yes or No votes, but rather to prompt voters to form their own views on the following measures:
Question 1
The Expanded Gaming Initiative permits the Gaming Commission to grant one additional slots license.
Question 2
The Increase Access to Public Charter Schools Initiative would enable the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to approve as many as 12 new charter schools annually, or to expand enrollment at existing charter schools.
Question 3
The Farm Animal Containment Initiative seeks to ban specific farm animal containment practices.
Question 4
The Marijuana Legalization Initiative would permit recreational marijuana use for those 21 and older.
Residents should review ma.gov for detailed information on the 2016 Ballot questions, including arguments both for and against each measure. As election day approaches, the state typically releases summaries explaining what each “Yes” and “No” vote would accomplish. Many voters find it helpful to write down their choices beforehand, since the wording of certain questions can be difficult to parse in the voting booth.
The results of these four questions will have meaningful consequences for people living in this community.