November 5, 2024 Ballot Issues

Below is the list of articles in a 10-part series covering the NINE constitutional amendments and propositions that will be included on our November ballot. These articles are designed to help explain each ballot measure (beyond the short language we normally see). I will NOT be offering opinions on candidates for office – you're on your own for that ;-)

Click on any of the summaries below to view that article

1Introduction

Wow - I counted 43 items on my sample ballot. They include races for U.S. President, U.S. Senator, and several state offices, as well as significant amendments and propositions. In this introductory article, we'll review how to find a sample ballot, where you can go to vote early (starting October 22), and where to vote on election day.

2Amendment 2 - Sports Betting

The proposal would authorize the Missouri Gaming Commission to regulate licensed sports wagering, including both online platforms and in-person betting at gambling boats and professional sports venues.

3Amendment 3 - Abortion Rights Initiative

This constitutional amendment seeks to enshrine the right to access abortion services, into the Missouri Constitution. As the nation grapples with deeply polarized views on abortion rights, Missouri's Amendment 3 has garnered significant attention, reflecting both local and national debates.

4Amendment 5 - Osage River Casino

Amendment 5 would enable the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one more license for a gambling boat. This license would authorize a casino to operate along a section of the Osage River, located between the Missouri River and Bagnell Dam.

5Amendment 6 - Fees to Support Law Enforcement

Amendment 6 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow for the levying of court fees to fund the salaries and benefits of law enforcement personnel, including sheriffs, prosecutors, and circuit attorneys. This measure would add a provision to the Missouri Constitution, enabling these fees to support retirement and compensation programs for current and former law enforcement personnel.

6Amendment 7 - Voting Restrictions

A constitutional amendment that would require U.S. citizenship to vote and prohibit ranked-choice voting (RCV). The amendment, introduced by the Missouri State Legislature, aims to update voting regulations regarding who can vote and how elections are conducted across the state./p>

7Proposition A - Minimum Wage and Paid Sick Time

This is a petition initiated state statute that would increase the state’s minimum wage and establish paid sick leave requirements for businesses. If passed, the measure would have wide-reaching impacts on both workers and businesses in Missouri.

8County Proposition A - Port Authority Commissioners

This is a proposed amendment to the St. Louis County Charter that addresses how vacancies on the Port Authority Board of Commissioners are filled. If passed, Proposition A would formally shift the authority to nominate board members from the county executive to the county council members.

9County Proposition C - Legal Counsel for County Council

Proposition C is a charter amendment that, if passed, would allow the St. Louis County Council to hire its own legal counsel. Currently, the County Council relies on legal advice from the County Counselor's Office, which is under the authority of the County Executive. Proposition C would change that by permitting the council to hire independent legal counsel for specific matters and ensure that these attorneys do not report to the County Counselor.

10County Proposition O and Retaining Judges

This is a charter amendment that, if passed, would change the starting date for newly elected Council members, the County Executive, the Prosecuting Attorney, and the Assessor to commence on the first Tuesday in January following said elected official's election. It's currently the second Tuesday in January.

We'll also review were to find info on the list of judges we're asked to vote on.