WHEREAS:
The ballot initiative processes in many states are increasingly utilized to curtail services provided by state and local governments, to cripple unions and to attack public employees’ job security, compensation, pensions, health care, worksite safety and their ability to participate in politics; and

WHEREAS:
AFSCME’s political opponents are using ballot initiatives to circumvent the legislative process to forward their political agenda; and

WHEREAS:
Ballot initiatives in many states are used to influence the electoral process by increasing voter turnout among particular constituencies; and

WHEREAS:
AFSCME and other progressive organizations have often found themselves on the defensive, fighting to defeat negative ballot initiates, rather than taking a proactive approach to initiatives.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
AFSCME will aggressively engage in ballot initiatives, to fight those we oppose and promote those we favor; and 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
AFSCME will increase efforts to educate its members and their families about ballot initiatives and, in coalition with other organizations where appropriate, to educate the general public about ballot initiatives; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
AFSCME will work with other progressive organizations to formulate a strategic approach to the potential use of ballot initiatives to further a proactive agenda that promotes public services and unions.
 
 
SUBMITTED BY: Richard Cabral, President and Delegate
Henry P. Pohler, Secretary
AFSCME Council 57
California