Direct Democracy

Through our collaborative efforts rooted in the vision for a state where communities are valued, supported, and thriving, we’re fighting for change through direct democracy. Learn more below about the campaigns that the Nebraska Table is involved with. 

Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans - This ballot initiative would ensure that working Nebraskans can earn paid time off work to care for their health and that of their families. Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans is collecting signatures to get on the November 2024 ballot. 

Protect Our Rights - Nebraskans have the right to make their own decision on abortion care in a way that prioritizes compassion and privacy, without any interference from the government. This ballot initiative would enshrine the right to abortion in the Nebraska State Constitution. Protect Our Rights is collecting signatures to get on the November 2024 ballot. 

Support Our Schools Nebraska - Repeal LB753 - Public schools serve 9 out of 10 students in Nebraska and do not discriminate against any child’s enrollment. This referendum aims to protect our public schools from tax schemes so that all Nebraska children can thrive. This issue will be on the November 2024 ballot as an opportunity to repeal LB653.

FAQs

What is a ballot initiative?

A ballot initiative is a citizen-initiated effort to change a state law or amend the state constitution and put it forth for a vote by the people.

What kinds of ballot initiatives are there?

There are three main types of initiatives, split into initiatives and referendums. Initiatives can be used to propose a new law or to amend the state constitution. A referendum is used to repeal a law recently passed by the Legislature.

How many signatures are required to get an issue on the ballot?

Nebraska requires a different number of verified signatures depending on the type of initiative.

For an initiative to propose a new law, signatures are required from 7% of all registered voters in the state. For a constitutional amendment, signatures are required from 10% of all registered voters in the state.  For a referendum, signatures are required from 5% of all registered voters in the state.

Statewide, signatures are required from 5% of voters in 38 out of 93 counties for any effort.

By when do signatures have to be collected?

Each campaign may face unique deadlines. For active ballot initiative campaigns in the state of Nebraska, signatures must be turned in by July 3rd, 2024.

How do I learn more and get involved?

You can learn more about individual campaign involvement opportunities and where to sign petitions on their respective websites. You can also reach out to our team by emailing brad@nebraskatable.org to learn more about the Nebraska Table’s efforts in the direct democracy space.