Voters across the United States will consider a range of significant ballot measures during the upcoming midterm elections, touching on critical issues such as taxation, transgender rights, voter access, and reproductive freedoms. These proposals could enact lasting changes at the state level, extending beyond the national focus on congressional control.
Voter Access
Measures affecting voter access and rights are on the ballot in 13 states. California, Colorado, Nevada, North Carolina, and Arizona are among the states where voters will decide on voter identification laws. In Nevada, a similar measure passed in 2024 but requires approval in a second consecutive election to amend the state constitution.
Several states, including Alaska, Arizona, South Dakota, Kansas, Arkansas, and West Virginia, have ballot proposals to explicitly mandate that only U.S. citizens can vote in state elections, a restriction already in place under federal law but not always explicitly stated in state constitutions. These measures come amid discussions among some Republican leaders about noncitizen voting, despite few documented instances of such occurrences.
Conversely, some states aim to expand voter access. Massachusetts voters will consider implementing same-day voter registration, while Virginia has a measure that would restore voting rights to formerly incarcerated citizens upon their release.
Gender and Sex Issues
Debates surrounding gender rights and transgender issues are also prominent on state ballots. Four states—Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, and Washington—have measures that would prohibit individuals from participating in sports teams aligning with their gender identity if it differs from their sex assigned at birth. Washington's proposal specifically requires documentation of sex for student athletes competing on female sports teams.
In Colorado and Missouri, voters will decide on measures concerning medical treatments for transgender minors. These proposals would either prohibit gender transition surgeries for minors or restrict healthcare professionals from providing such procedures.
Taxation
Concerns about affordability and income inequality are driving several tax-related ballot measures. California is considering four tax propositions, with Proposition 40, often termed the "billionaires' tax," garnering significant attention. If passed, it would impose a 5% tax on the wealth of California taxpayers and trusts with assets exceeding $1 billion, with revenues earmarked for state healthcare, food assistance, and education programs.
Colorado's ballot includes a proposal to move away from its uniform tax rate requirement to a progressive system, with tax rates varying based on income levels. Washington state voters will decide on the repeal of its 9.9% tax on individuals earning over $1 million annually.
Reproductive Rights
Following the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, several states are addressing reproductive rights through ballot measures. Virginia, Idaho, and Nevada will vote on initiatives that would codify rights to reproductive decision-making and privacy.
In Missouri, voters are being asked to repeal a 2024 initiative that established a constitutional right to reproductive freedom.