the path to ballot
Issue: Require three-fifths majorities of the Legislature, not simple majorities, and more time to submit proposed state constitutional amendments to voters.
Pro: Changes to the state's founding document should require bipartisan support.
Con: System already allows voters to settle controversial issues.
Recent: Passage by voters of "Legacy" tax hike in 2008 to fund outdoors and arts projects; defeat by voters of same-sex marriage ban and voter ID requirement in 2012.
Wrinkle No. 1: Proposed change would itself require a voter-approved constitutional amendment.
Wrinkle No. 2: Once before voters, Minnesota requires a majority of all voters in election to approve amendment.
National: Majority of states make constitutional amendments harder for legislatures to submit to voters.
