Florida lawmakers propose restrictions on ballot initiative signatures

Florida lawmakers are advancing a bill that would make it more difficult and costly to gather signatures for ballot initiatives. This follows ongoing debates over citizen-driven measures, including those on abortion rights and marijuana legalization. The proposed legislation would shorten the time for submitting signed petitions, increase fines for late filings, and impose hefty bonds on organizations starting petition campaigns. It would also limit individuals to submitting only two petitions. Supporters argue these changes are necessary for election integrity, while opponents claim they undermine direct democracy and favor wealthy interests. The bill reflects a long-standing conflict between citizen initiatives and legislative control in Florida.