What are the steps for placing an initiative on the ballot?
A. The qualification procedure generally follows these steps: 1. The proponents write the text of the proposed law or constitutional amendment and file it with the secretary of state. 2. The proposed initiative is referred to the state attorney general or the legislative council for review to determine whether it conflicts with any existing laws. 3. The state attorney general, legislative council, or secretary of state drafts the “ballot title,” which is a short and simple statement describing the initiative, and a summary of the measure. Some states require a public hearing at this point, and the ballot title and summary may be revised after the hearing. 4. The proponents prepare the petitions they will use to collect signatures of registered voters and start collecting signatures. The deadline for collecting signatures is usually 3-4 months before election day. 5. The secretary of state determines whether the petitions have valid signatures and, if so, qualifies the measure for the b
