2022 Ballot Measures: Analysis of Rejected State Amendments
In 2022, voters were presented with four distinct proposed amendments to the state Constitution. These measures sought to alter the legal landscape regarding judicial review, business taxation, religious incorporation, and educational governance. Ultimately, all four amendments were rejected by the electorate.
Key Facts
- Total Measures: Four constitutional amendments were proposed.
- Outcome: Every single amendment was defeated.
- Largest Margin: Amendment 2 saw the most significant defeat with a 29-point margin.
- Closest Vote: Amendment 3 was the narrowest defeat, failing by a 9-point margin.
Detailed Breakdown of the Amendments
Amendment 1: Judiciary's Role in Impeachment
The Clarification of the Judiciary's Role in Impeachment Proceedings Amendment aimed to change the state Constitution to prevent state courts from reviewing the Legislature's decisions during impeachment trials. This would have effectively removed judicial oversight from the impeachment process. The measure was defeated by a nearly 16-point margin.
Amendment 2: Property Tax Modernization
The Property Tax Modernization Amendment proposed authorizing the Legislature to exempt machinery and other tangible property used in business activities from ad valorem property taxation—a tax based on the assessed value of an item. This measure faced the strongest opposition of the four, failing by a 29-point margin.
Amendment 3: Incorporation of Religious Denominations
The Incorporation of Churches or Religious Denominations Amendment sought to grant the Legislature the authority to formally incorporate churches and religious denominations under the state Constitution. This proposal was the closest to passing but was still defeated by a 9-point margin.
Amendment 4: Education Accountability
The Education Accountability Amendment proposed a shift in educational governance by requiring the state Board of Education to submit its policies to the Legislature for approval, amendment, or repeal. This measure was rejected by a nearly 16-point margin.
Summary of Voting Results
| Amendment | For (Votes) | Against (Votes) | For (%) | Against (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amendment 1 | 196,519 | 269,316 | 42.19% | 57.81% |
| Amendment 2 | 170,013 | 309,007 | 35.49% | 64.51% |
| Amendment 3 | 211,147 | 253,379 | 45.45% | 54.55% |
| Amendment 4 | 200,791 | 275,683 | 42.14% | 57.86% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which amendment had the lowest support?
Amendment 2, the Property Tax Modernization Amendment, had the lowest support, receiving only 35.49% of the vote.
What does "ad valorem" mean in the context of Amendment 2?
Ad valorem is a Latin term meaning "according to value." In this context, it refers to property taxes calculated based on the appraised value of the business machinery and tangible property.
How did voters feel about the Education Accountability Amendment?
Voters rejected the proposal to give the Legislature oversight of the state Board of Education's policies, with 57.86% voting against the measure.
Which measure was the closest to passing?
Amendment 3, regarding the incorporation of churches and religious denominations, was the closest, failing by a 9-point margin (45.45% for vs 54.55% against).
What was the goal of Amendment 1?
Amendment 1 sought to remove the ability of state courts to review the decisions made by the Legislature during impeachment trials.