SCS/SB 718 - This act makes changes regarding statewide ballot measures and initiative and referendum petitions. Specifically, this act:

1. Requires voter approval before a statewide ballot measure may be repealed or amended. The General Assembly can overcome this provision by including language in specific legislation exempting this act (i.e., "section 116.023 notwithstanding");

2. Adds a provision in the event that a court finds a voter-approved ballot measure to be unconstitutional--the General Assembly could repeal the ballot measure without voter approval; and

3. Adds a public hearing process for all initiative or referendum petitions. The Secretary of State shall schedule at least one public hearing on the petition, at which interested parties would testify as to their positions on the petition. The hearing shall be held within 30 days after the issuance of the certificate of sufficiency of petition and at a reasonable location and an appropriate time before the election to allow for full discussion. Notice shall be published in all Missouri newspapers with a daily circulation of at least 10,000 papers.

Part 1 of this act is identical to SB 612 (1996) and SB 68 (1995).
MARGARET TOALSON