The Utah Senate Democrats released the following statement after S.B. 4002 Ballot Proposition Amendments, S.B. 4003 Statewide Referendum Amendments, and S.J.R. 401 Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution – Voter Legislative Power passed the Utah State Legislature:
“Today, the Utah Legislature unnecessarily convened in a special session— intended to address state emergencies—to push through reactionary bills that undermine the voice of Utah’s voters. These bills propose a ballot measure, which will be on the ballot in November, that would codify in the Constitution the Legislature’s ability to repeal and replace citizen initiatives.
“Our Constitution affirms that ‘all political power is inherent in the people.’ This principle is the very foundation of democracy and our state. The Utah Supreme Court has reaffirmed that when Utahns exercise their right to reform the government through a citizen initiative, this right is constitutionally protected. The Court has also reaffirmed that legislative changes can still happen, provided they facilitate or support the reform, or at least do not impair the will of the people. There was no need for this special session, as the existing framework already allows for responsible changes while respecting the intent and rights of voters.
“Instead of respecting the Court’s ruling and the checks and balances essential to a healthy democracy, the Legislature is now attempting to sidestep these protections by embedding its power into the Constitution, granting disproportionate authority to lawmakers over the will of the people. This undermines the democratic processes that empower Utahns to address the issues that matter most in their communities.
“In this upcoming election, voters will be asked to give up their own constitutionally protected rights. Our caucus consistently voiced our opposition to the convening of this special session and against S.B. 4003 and its companion bills. Our caucus stands firm in our opposition to this ballot measure.”
