Referendum

NYC Council Members Push for Voter Referendum on Sanctuary Law Revisions Amid Mayor Adams’ Reluctance

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New York, NY – In New York City, a clash over municipal sanctuary laws is escalating, with some members of the City Council urging for a public referendum to decide whether to amend the laws that limit local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This request for a ballot measure comes amid resistance from Mayor Eric Adams, who has opted not to pursue a public vote on the matter but has indicated plans to modify sanctuary policies through executive actions. The debate was ignited by the Common Sense Caucus of the City Council, which … Read more

Judge Orders Beloit School District to Release Email List Used for Referendum Promotions, Highlights Public Record Transparency

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Beloit, WI – In a recent legal decision, a Rock County judge ordered the School District of Beloit to provide access to an email distribution list it had used to disseminate information about its $33 million referendum proposals. The judicial directive comes as a part of increasing efforts towards enhancing transparency in the use of public resources for electoral campaigns. The controversy began when Beloit resident MaryAnn Sveom’s attempt to obtain the email list was rebuffed by the district in April 2023. Sveom’s request was anchored in a precedent set by a similar situation in … Read more

Higher Court to Decide Fate of Controversial Chicago Ballot Referendum on Funding for the Unhoused

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Chicago, IL – The legal battle over a ballot referendum aimed at providing funding for the unhoused population is escalating as the case moves to a higher court. Last Friday, a circuit court judge declared the question unconstitutional, but the city is now seeking to overturn that ruling. The dispute centers around the Bring Chicago Home referendum, which has faced opposition from the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA). BOMA filed a lawsuit against the Chicago Board of Elections to remove the referendum from the ballot. The three-part referendum asks voters to consider increasing the … Read more