Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Hawaii | Maryland | Missouri | Montana | New York | Nevada | Washington | Wisconsin

Arizona

Arizona Proposition 139 – Passed

Summary: Arizona Abortion Access Act, known as Proposition 139, would establish a person’s fundamental right to abortion up to fetal viability and a right to an abortion after fetal viability in cases where the life and health of a pregnant person is at risk. A “yes” vote supports reproductive freedom and access to abortion, which effectively:

• protects access to abortion after fetal viability if the life or physical or mental health of the patient is at risk,
• prevents the state from punishing individual who help pregnant people access an abortion,
• ensures that the state cannot limit access to abortion before fetal viability unless the states utilize the least restrictive means, and
• does not infringe upon the patient’s autonomous decision making, and the limitation is enacted solely to protect the health of the patient.

AAUW of Arizona and AAUW recommend voting YES on Arizona Proposition 139.

AAUW’s commitment to the advancement of reproductive rights began in the 1920s and has remained a focal point in AAUW’s advocacy throughout its long history. AAUW’s 2023-2025 Policy Priorities explicitly promote “accessible reproductive healthcare for all” and a self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions. This proposition reaffirms the right to an abortion and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on this proposition.

California

Proposition 2 – Passed

Summary: This proposition would issue funds directed to the construction and modernization of California’s public education facilities. This would support improvements at K-12 schools as well as community colleges. A “yes” vote would:

• issue $10 billion in bonds to fund the construction and modernization of California’s public education facilities, of which $8.5 billion will be allocated for K-12 schools, and $1.5 billion will be used for community colleges.

AAUW of California recommends voting YES on Proposition 2

AAUW California supports “adequate and equitable funding at all educational levels, including pre-school and post-secondary”. Many school facilities are over 50 years old and require significant upgrades to meet current technological and educational needs. Research shows that modernized school facilities correlate with better test scores, higher attendance, and improved teacher retention rates. This proposition would support public education facilities and as such AAUW California recommends voting YES on Proposition 2.

Proposition 3: Constitutional Right to Marriage – Passed

Summary: This proposition would enshrine the fundamental right to marry and protect against any potential future changes to federal marriage protections. A “yes” vote would:

• recognize the fundamental right to marry and
• remove the language banning same-sex marriage.

AAUW of California recommends voting YES on Proposition 3

AAUW California advocates for the “guarantee of civil and constitutional rights for all, including all forms of gender identity and expression, and all family structures”. In 2008 voters passed a measure banning same-sex marriage. In practice the ban has been nullified since a Supreme Court ruling in 2013 which allowed same-sex marriages to resume in California. This proposition will enshrine the fundamental right to marry and protect against any potential future changes to federal marriage protections and as such AAUW California recommends voting YES on Proposition 3.

Proposition 4: Climate Bond – Passed

Summary: This proposition would allocate the state to issue funds to support various environmental, energy, and water projects. It would require a portion of the revenue to fund activities that benefit low-income communities or communities affected by environmental changes or disasters. A “yes” vote:

• allows the state to issue $10 billion in bonds to environmental, energy, and water projects and
• requires 40% of the bond revenue to be allocated towards activities that benefit low-income communities and communities impacted by environmental changes or disasters.

AAUW of California recommends voting YES on Proposition 4.

AAUW California supports “social and racial justice for all members of society, including equal access to quality affordable healthcare, housing and a healthy environment.” And AAUW California’s Public Policy Committee has pointed out in the past that addressing climate issues and advancing gender equity is directly related to environmental sustainability, and vice versa. This proposition aims to help those most impacted by climate issues and as such AAUW California recommends voting YES to Proposition 4.

Proposition 32 – Failed

Summary: Proposition 32 seeks to increase California’s minimum wage from the current $16 per hour to $18 per hour by 2026, with a phased approach starting in 2025.

A “yes” vote supports increasing the minimum wage in California, which would effectively:

• raise the minimum wage to $18 per hour by 2026, benefiting workers who currently earn less than this amount,
• improve the economic well-being of many low-wage workers, especially women and people of color, who are significantly impacted by low wages, and
• address income inequality and help workers better meet the basic cost of living.

AAUW of California recommends voting YES on Proposition 32.

AAUW has long advocated for economic security for all women, which includes promoting policies that address income inequality and support a living wage. AAUW’s 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities emphasize the need for “increasing the number of quality jobs that pay a living wage.” Proposition 32 aligns with these goals by raising the minimum wage to $18 per hour, directly benefiting millions of low-wage workers, particularly women and people of color. In a state where women, especially from marginalized communities, are overrepresented in low-paying jobs, this increase would significantly improve economic stability for these workers.

Colorado

Amendment 79 – Passed

Summary: Amendment 79 establishes a constitutional right to abortion and repeals an existing Colorado constitutional provision banning the use of public funds for abortion services.

A “yes” vote would strengthen Colorado’s already strong commitment to reproductive freedom by:

• establishing a constitutional right to abortion
• prohibiting state and local governments from denying, impeding, or discriminating against exercising that right
• allowing state-funded health insurance (Medicaid) and state and local government employee health insurance plans to pay for abortion care

AAUW of Colorado and AAUW recommend voting YES on Amendment 79.

Passing Amendment 79 secures abortion as a constitutional right in Colorado and prohibits discrimination against people seeking an abortion at the state and local level. The amendment would repeal an existing Colorado constitutional provision restricting the use of public funding for abortion. In the 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities, AAUW reaffirms the commitment to “accessible reproductive health care” and advocates for a pregnant person’s right to make their own reproductive choices. Amendment 79 furthers AAUW’s mission to protect the right to accessible reproductive healthcare and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on Amendment 79.

Florida

Amendment 1: Partisan School Board Elections Amendment – Failed

Summary: The proposed amendment would change the current nonpartisan school board elections in Florida to partisan elections. Beginning in the 2026 general election, candidates would be nominated through party-specific primaries and listed on the ballot with party labels, such as Democrat or Republican.

A “no” vote opposes making school board elections partisan, thereby maintaining:

• the current nonpartisan election system where school board candidates run without party labels,
• equitable voter participation by preventing school board elections from being subject to Florida’s closed primary system, and
• reduced political division in education by keeping school board elections focused on the quality of education rather than political agendas.

AAUW of Florida and AAUW recommend voting NO on Florida Amendment 1.

AAUW has long advocated for public education that is equitable, inclusive, and free from political influence. The 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities emphasize the need for “high-quality public education as the foundation of a democratic society” and the importance of a “bias-free education” for all students. Amendment 1 would increase political influence on school boards and exclude many Floridians from voting in closed primaries, detracting from these principles. Therefore, AAUW of Florida urges you to vote NO on Amendment 1.

Amendment 4: Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion – Failed

Summary: The proposed amendment would ensure that no law would impose restrictions on abortion before viability or when necessary to protect a patient’s health but does not change Florida’s requirement to notify a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.

A “yes” vote would overturn Florida’s current six-week ban and:

• establish a constitutional right to an abortion up to fetal viability and
• ensure that abortion is accessible and not prohibited when medically necessary.

AAUW of Florida and AAUW recommend voting YES on Florida Amendment 4.

AAUW has long advocated for reproductive rights and accessible healthcare. The 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities state that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions”. Amendment 4 codifies the constitutional right to abortion in Florida and furthers AAUW’s mission to secure and protect a pregnant person’s right to make their own reproductive choices and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on Amendment 4.

Hawaii

Question 1 – Passed

Summary: Question 1 would remove a provision from the Hawai’i State Constitution that states “the legislature shall have the power to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples.”

A “yes” vote would ensure the protection of same-sex marriage in Hawai’i by:

• removing language from the state constitution that allows the legislature to limit marriage to opposite-sex couples.

AAUW of Hawai’i and AAUW recommend voting YES on Question 1.

AAUW advocates “Freedom in the definition of self and family, including protection from discrimination and a guarantee of civil rights for all family structures.” Same-sex marriage is protected under the 2013 Hawai’i Marriage Equality Act and federally under the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges. This amendment would enshrine the protection of same-sex marriage in the Hawai’i State Constitution, and as such AAUW of Hawai’i and AAUW recommend voting YES on Question 1.

Maryland

Question 1: Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment – Passed

Summary: The proposed amendment confirms an individual’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom, including but not limited to the ability to make and effectuate decisions to prevent, continue, or end the individual’s pregnancy, and provides the State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden, or abridge that right unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the least restrict means.

A “yes” vote amends the Maryland state constitution to:

• ensure that everyone has the fundamental right to reproductive freedom including the right to abortion access and birth control.

AAUW of Maryland and AAUW recommend voting YES on Maryland Question 1 Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment.

AAUW maintains a long history of fighting for reproductive rights. The 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities highlight that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions”. Maryland’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment reaffirms the right for pregnant people to make their own reproductive choices and furthers AAUW’s mission and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on Maryland Question 1 Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment.

Missouri

Missouri Amendment 3 – Passed

The Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative

Summary: The proposed amendment would establish a right to reproductive freedom, including the right to make decisions about one’s own reproductive healthcare: birth control, abortion care, childbirth, prenatal care, etc. In addition, the amendment allows the state to regulate abortion after fetal viability provided that the government does not restrict abortion that protects the life or physical or mental health of the patient. A “yes” vote would overturn Missouri’s current total abortion ban and will effectively:

• guarantee a right to an abortion and other aspects of reproductive healthcare,
• protect against criminal punishment for providing or receiving abortion care,
• require the state to use “the least restrictive means” when regulating abortion care after fetal viability, and
• prioritize the life and health of pregnant people when accessing abortion healthcare.

AAUW of Missouri and AAUW recommend voting YES on MO Amendment 3

AAUW’s history of advocating for reproductive rights began in the 1920s with its formal adoption as a policy principle in 1977.

The 2023-2025 Public Priorities reaffirm this commitment and state that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions.”

Amendment 3 secures the right to reproductive healthcare and protects pregnant peoples’ lives and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on Amendment 3.

Montana

Constitutional Initiative 128 – Passed

Summary: This proposed initiative would create a right to an abortion up to fetal viability and allow the state to regulate abortion after viability provided that the state does deny or burden access to abortion that is needed to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient. The initiative also dictates that the government is not allowed to punish a pregnant person or anyone aiding a pregnant person for seeking or obtaining an abortion. A “yes” vote would establish a new legal framework to:

• guarantee the right to an abortion until fetal viability,
• protect against criminal punishment based upon a person’s pregnancy outcome or against a person assisting a pregnant individual in their decision-making about their own pregnancy, and
• allow for abortions after fetal viability if deemed medically necessary to protect the life or health of the pregnant person.

AAUW of Montana and AAUW recommend voting YES on Montana Constitutional Initiative 128.

AAUW maintains a long history of reproductive right advocacy beginning in the 1920s and continuing on in 1977 when reproductive healthcare became a policy principle. The 2023-2025 Public Priorities reflect this commitment and state that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions”. Montana Constitutional Initiative 128 secures the right to self-determination in matters of reproductive healthcare and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on Constitutional Initiative 128.

New York

Proposal 1, an Amendment – Passed

Summary: The amendment would add anti-discrimination provisions to the State Bill of Rights in New York’s State Constitution including ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex which includes sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, and protections for reproductive healthcare and autonomy.

A “yes” vote would establish a New York specific version of the “Equal Rights Amendment”, therefore the amendment would:

• establish a constitutional right to abortion,
• prevent the state from banning state funding of abortion care, and
• assert that there can be no discrimination based upon sex

AAUW of New York and AAUW recommend voting YES on New York Proposal 1, an Amendment.

AAUW upholds a long history of reproductive rights advocacy, beginning in the 1920s and continuing in the 1970s when reproductive healthcare was formally adopted as a policy principle. The 2023-2025 Policy Priorities state that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse and inclusive society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions”. This proposal reaffirms AAUW’s mission to secure reproductive rights and equitable access to healthcare and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on New York Proposal 1.

Nevada

Question 6: Reproductive Rights Amendment – Passed

Summary: The proposed amendment would establish a fundamental right to abortion until fetal viability or if needed to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient.

A “yes” vote would bolster its preexisting abortion legislation to allow abortion until 24 weeks of pregnancy and in effect:

• establish the right to abortion until viability and
• allow abortion in cases where there is risk to the life or health of a pregnant person after the point of fetal viability.

AAUW of Nevada and AAUW recommend voting YES on the Nevada Reproductive Rights Amendment.

AAUW maintains a long history of reproductive rights advocacy, beginning in the 1920s and continuing into the 1970s when reproductive healthcare was established as a policy principle. The 2023-2025 Public Priorities reaffirm this commitment and state that in order to “guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society, AAUW advocates for self-determination of one’s reproductive health decisions”. This amendment helps protect the rights of pregnant people to make their own decisions about reproductive healthcare and as such AAUW recommends voting YES on the Nevada Reproductive Rights Amendment.

Washington

Initiative 2124: Long Term Care Insurance Program Changes – Failed

Summary: The proposed measure would change Washington’s current long-term care program, WA Cares Fund, from a mandatory payroll tax to an opt-in system. This measure would effectively dismantle the state’s current program designed to ensure equitable access to long-term care benefits. A “no” vote would maintain WA Cares Fund as a mandatory payroll tax that:

• provides universal access to long-term care benefits regardless of gender, pre-existing conditions, or income,
• prevents gender rating and pre-existing condition exclusions, and
• covers both home care and residential facility stays for all working Washingtonians.

AAUW of Washington and AAUW recommend voting NO on Initiative 2124.

AAUW has long advocated for gender equity in health care, and I-2124 threatens these ideals. The AAUW’s 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities promote “the economic, social, and physical well-being of all persons” and advocate for equitable access to quality, affordable health care for everyone. I-2124 threatens this commitment by potentially excluding those who need care most, disproportionately impacting women who face higher costs for private long-term care insurance and are more likely to require care.

Initiative 2109: Capital Gains Excise Tax Repeal – Failed

Summary: The proposed initiative would repeal the capital gains excise tax on extraordinary profits from the sale of assets such as stock market profits greater than $250,000. The tax does not include retirement accounts, profit from sale of homes, real estate, small family businesses, farms and livestock, timber and timberlands or commercial fishing rights. Washington’s capital gains excise tax is an important part of Washington’s equitable tax code structure. A “no” vote will:

• maintain Washington’s Education Legacy Trust fund that supports childcare and early learning, K-12 education, career and technical training, and school construction projects,
• save Washington from adopting a regressive tax code with the burden falling on middle- and low-income households, and
• prevent the loss of over 10,000 jobs and 1.2 billion in state personal income.

AAUW of Washington and AAUW recommend voting NO on Washington Initiative 2109.

AAUW has long advocated for progressive taxation with a clear gender equity goal. High quality education is fundamental to a well-functioning democracy and plays an instrumental role in improving economic prosperity and gender equality. AAUW believes in equitable and affordable access to education that serves to close the persistent learning and opportunity gaps disproportionately affecting students from low income and minority groups. AAUW’s 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities include “supporting and protecting programs that meet the needs of girls and women in elementary, secondary and postsecondary education”. The proposed initiative threatens the Education Legacy Trust fund and accessible education for all and as such AAUW recommends voting NO on Washington Initiative 2109.

Initiative 2117: Climate Commitment Act Repeal – Failed

Summary: The proposed measure would repeal Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, which is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air and water quality, and support overburdened communities through a cap-and-invest system. The initiative aims to dismantle this critical climate policy and shift responsibility for pollution mitigation away from major polluters. A “no” vote maintains the Climate Commitment Act and:

• preserves the state’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing catastrophic climate impacts,
• secures funding from carbon auctions to support environmental justice initiatives and overburdened communities, and
• implements protections for air and water quality and investments in transportation and infrastructure projects.

AAUW of Washington and AAUW recommend voting NO on Initiative 2117.

AAUW has long advocated for policies that promote a clean, sustainable environment and address the impacts of climate change, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including women and girls. The AAUW’s 2023-2025 Public Policy Priorities promote “the economic, social, and physical well-being of all persons. Essential to that well-being are…a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.” Repealing the Climate Commitment Act would undermine efforts to combat climate change and exacerbate health disparities, particularly affecting women and underserved communities. Voting NO on I-2117 aligns with AAUW’s commitment to upholding strong climate policies that prevent more pollution, protect public health, and support gender equity in climate leadership.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin Citizenship Voting Requirement Amendment – Passed

Summary: The proposed anti-voter amendment would change the current language in the Wisconsin Constitution from “Every” U.S. citizen who is 18 years old or older can vote to “Only” a U.S. citizen who is 18 years old or older can vote in federal, state, local, or school elections. This language is intentionally confusing and rooted in misinformation. A “no” vote would preserve the current language in the Wisconsin Constitution that:

• ensures all eligible voters in Wisconsin are afforded the right to cast a ballot, and
• provides the constitutional guarantee that protects the freedom to vote from further infringement.

AAUW of Wisconsin and AAUW recommend voting NO on the Wisconsin Citizenship Voting Requirement Amendment.

AAUW has long advocated open and fair elections that are broadly accessible to all eligible voters. Federal law already makes it illegal for noncitizens to vote in all federal elections, including elections for the U.S. House, U.S. Senate, and president. AAUW’s 2023-25 Public Policy Priorities reaffirm this commitment to “Vigorous enforcement of and full access to civil and constitutional rights, including…expanding voting rights.” This unnecessary amendment could allow for discriminatory practices and voter disenfranchisement, therefore AAUW of Wisconsin and AAUW recommend voting NO on the Wisconsin Citizenship Voting Requirement Amendment.

Missouri | Virginia | Washington |

Missouri

Amendment 3: Redistricting Process and Criteria, Lobbying, and Campaign Finance Amendment

Summary: Amendment 3 seeks to amend Article III of the Missouri Constitution to change certain provisions of Missouri Amendment 1 passed in 2018 with 62% of the vote.

A “no” vote opposes amending the Missouri Constitution, thereby maintaining:

• the state’s use of a nonpartisan state demographer for legislative redistricting,
• the existing criteria used to draw legislative districts, and
• the existing campaign finance and lobbying limits.

AAUW and AAUW of Missouri recommend voting NO on Missouri Amendment 3.

AAUW has long advocated expanding voting rights and ensuring equitable political participation and representation, and poorly drawn or purposefully unfair electoral district lines can threaten these ideals. AAUW’s 2019-2021’s Public Policy Priorities state that, “we see an urgent need for meaningful campaign finance reform.” Amendment 3 will make Missouri the only state not using the total population count when dividing up legislative districts. Instead, the state would count eligible voters only and leave out 1.5 million Missouri children and non-citizens.

Virginia

Amendment 1: The Virginia Redistricting Commission Amendment

Summary: The proposed amendment would shift the responsibility of drawing election districts from the General Assembly and the Governor to a bipartisan commission, made up of 16 persons, half being members of the General Assembly and half being citizens of the Commonwealth. This commission would draw the election districts and then submit the maps to the General Assembly for approval.

A “yes” vote supports the transfer of the power to draw the state’s congressional and legislative districts to a redistricting commission composed of state legislators and citizens, which will effectively:

• Replace outdated and discriminatory redistricting laws,
• Provide a public and transparent redistricting process for voters, and
• Protect civil rights and access to the vote for historically disenfranchised communities.

AAUW and AAUW of Virginia recommend voting YES on Virginia Amendment 1.

AAUW has long advocated that voting is a foundational right and poorly drawn or purposefully unfair electoral district lines threaten equitable and fair representation. In Virginia this right has been diminished because our Constitution allows the General Assembly and the Governor to redraw election districts every 10 years for both houses of the General Assembly and the U.S. House of Representatives. This has resulted in elected officials selecting their voters instead of allowing voters to select those representing them. In its 2020-2022 Public Policy Priorities, AAUW of Virginia includes “Support measures to ensure fair, nonpartisan redistricting, and transparency in government” and believes that the Amendment supports all these goals.

Washington

Referendum 90: Sex Education in Public Schools Measure

Summary: the proposed referendum would allow Senate Bill 5395 to go into effect and provide students with medically accurate sexual health information.

The only sexual health education required by the state of Washington is instruction on HIV and AIDS prevention, first adopted in 1988. Approving this referendum will:

• Update requirements for public schools to provide comprehensive sexual health education;
• Include instruction and information on affirmative consent and bystander training; and
• Require that students be excused if requested by their parents.

AAUW and AAUW of Washington recommend voting YES on Washington Referendum 90.

Approving R-90 will retain the sexual health education bill that AAUW-WA endorsed in the 2020 legislative session. Scientific studies have shown that the kind of sex education mandated in this law reduces risky sexual behavior, unplanned pregnancies, and the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases. It also gives children the information they need to report sexual abuse to trusted adults and boys and girls the tools to communicate clearly and effectively about sexual intentions and actions.  Learning about affirmative consent empowers young people to take control of their sexual encounters and to respect the wishes of their partners.

Florida

Florida Amendment 4: Voting Rights Restoration for Felons Initiative

Summary: Current Florida law bars anyone with a felony conviction from voting, unless they undertake a complicated legal process to request those rights be restored and gain approval. Amendment 4 would allow people with prior felony convictions to automatically have their eligibility to vote restored upon completion of their sentence, including parole or probation. The amendment excludes those convicted of murder or felony sexual offenses.

AAUW and AAUW of Florida recommend voting YES on Florida Amendment 4.

AAUW’s 2017-19 Public Policy Priorities advocate for the vigorous enforcement of and full access to civil and constitutional rights, including voting rights. AAUW supports the protection and expansion of voting rights and opposes any efforts to reduce access to the ballot box.

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Idaho

Proposition 2: Medicaid Expansion Initiative

Summary: Proposition 2 would expand Idaho’s Medicaid coverage to more individuals in the state. The change would expand Medicaid eligibility to those under sixty-five years old whose income is 133 percent of the federal poverty level or below and who are not eligible for other state insurance coverage.

AAUW and AAUW of Idaho recommend voting YES on Idaho Proposition 2.

AAUW believes that everyone is entitled to high-quality, affordable, and accessible health care. Health care security is intrinsically tied to economic security, and this relationship is particularly true for women who earn less than men on average and are therefore less able to afford insurance or care. Medicaid represents a crucial element of the social safety net, and AAUW supports its expansion. Americans, especially women, rely heavily on the protections Medicaid offers and the services it provides, and it is critical that it continue to be maintained and strengthened.

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Massachusetts

Question 3: Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Veto Referendum

Summary: Question 3 is the first-ever statewide popular vote on protections for transgender people. A “no” vote on the referendum would repeal the Massachusetts state law that protects transgender people from discrimination in public places, including restaurants, stores, and doctors’ offices.

AAUW and AAUW of Massachusetts recommend voting YES on Massachusetts Question 3.

AAUW opposes all forms of discrimination and supports protections for the civil rights of all individuals. We believe in creating a diverse culture of involvement, respect, inclusion, and connection, where the richness of ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives is fully appreciated and utilized. AAUW’s 2017-19 Public Policy Priorities also advocate for the “economic, social, and physical well-being of all persons.” AAUW believes discrimination against transgender people has no place in our society, and that Massachusetts’ anti-discrimination law should remain in place.

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Michigan

Proposal 2: Independent Redistricting Commission Initiative

Summary: Proposal 2 would create an independent commission to supervise redistricting in Michigan. This would replace the current process, which relies on the state legislature to draw district boundaries. The commission formed by Proposal 2 would be comprised of Democrats, Republicans, and unaligned voters to ensure nonpartisan boundaries are drawn.

AAUW and AAUW of Michigan recommend voting YES on Michigan Proposal 2.

Gerrymandering – the practice of drawing electoral district lines to benefit one political party – poses serious problems for our democracy. The way the lines are drawn affects who is elected: By packing voters who favor one party into the fewest districts possible or spreading those same voters out over many districts to guarantee that they hold minimal influence, gerrymandering works against fair representation and can lead to undue influence from one political party. AAUW has long advocated expanding voting rights and ensuring equitable political participation and representation, and poorly drawn or purposefully unfair electoral district lines can threaten these ideals. Legislators in gerrymandered districts are less accountable to voters; elections in those districts frequently become uncontested or lopsided; and in states where gerrymandering is widespread, legislatures are able to push through policies that fail to reflect voters’ values or needs. An independent redistricting commission would help to prevent the problems caused by gerrymandering and ensure fair representation for Michigan voters.

Proposal 3: Voting Policies in State Constitution Initiative

Summary: Proposal 3 would authorize several policies designed to increase access to voting. The constitutional provisions include establishing automatic voter registration, allowing in-person voter registration up to and including election day, removing criteria for obtaining an absentee ballot, ensuring overseas voters receive absentee ballots 45 days prior to an election, making vote-by-mail registration available until 15 days prior to an election, offering straight-ticket voting, and auditing election results.

AAUW and AAUW of Michigan recommend voting YES on Michigan Proposal 3.

AAUW’s 2017-19 Public Policy Priorities advocate for the vigorous enforcement of and full access to civil and constitutional rights, including voting rights. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder has left voting rights under attack, and in many states it has become more difficult for Americans to exercise their right to vote. AAUW supports the protection and expansion of voting rights and supports efforts like these that increase access to the ballot box.

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Missouri

Amendment 1: Lobbying, Campaign Finance, and Redistricting Initiative

Summary: Amendment 1 seeks to clean up Missouri politics by amending the state’s constitution to change lobbying rules, campaign contribution limits, and legislative redistricting. The amendment would change the system for legislative redistricting by adding the position of non-partisan state demographer, which would draw state legislative districts and work with the existing redistricting commissions for approval of the map. Amendment 1 also establishes criteria for the demographer and commissions to consider in creating the maps, mandating that districts be fair, competitive, contiguous, and compact. Additionally, the amendment would limit gifts from lobbyists to a value of $5, require legislators and their staff to wait two years before becoming lobbyists, put limits on campaign contributions to state legislative candidates, and prohibit donation tactics that obscure the source of the money.

AAUW and AAUW of Missouri recommend voting YES on Missouri Amendment 1.

AAUW has long advocated expanding voting rights and ensuring equitable political participation and representation, and poorly drawn or purposefully unfair electoral district lines can threaten these ideals. Legislators in gerrymandered districts are less accountable to voters; elections in those districts frequently become uncontested or lopsided; and in states where gerrymandering is widespread, legislatures are able to push through policies that fail to reflect voters’ values or needs. Adding a nonpartisan state demographer to Missouri’s existing redistricting commissions would help to prevent the problems caused by gerrymandering and ensure fair representation for Missouri voters. AAUW’s 2017-19 Public Policy Priorities also state that “we see an urgent need for meaningful campaign finance reform,” and these measures are good steps in the right direction.

Proposition B: $12 Minimum Wage Initiative

Summary: Proposition B would gradually increase Missouri’s minimum wage from the current $7.85 per hour to $12 per hour over 5 years. After that point, the initiative would require that the minimum wage increase or decrease based on changes in the cost of living, as measured by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers.

AAUW and AAUW of Missouri recommend voting YES on Missouri Proposition B.

AAUW’s 2017-19 Public Policy Priorities advocate for reduction of poverty and for a living wage. Women make up nearly two-thirds of minimum-wage workers nationwide, and raising the minimum wage is an important part of ensuring their economic security and that of their families. Increasing the minimum wage has also been shown to help shrink the persistent gender pay gap.

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Oregon

Measure 106: Ban Public Funds for Abortions Initiative

Summary: Measure 106 would prohibit Oregon from spending public funds on abortion, effectively cutting abortion access for those who cannot independently afford it. The funding ban would mean that low-income Oregonians who are insured under the Oregon Health Plan would no longer have access to covered abortion care. Public servants, including teachers, firefighters, and nurses, also receive health care through the state, and would also lose access to abortion services.

AAUW and AAUW of Oregon recommend voting NO on Oregon Measure 106.

AAUW supports choice in the determination of one’s reproductive life and increased access to health care and family planning services. The U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 ruling in Roe v. Wade legalized abortion for all women and found abortion to be a constitutionally protected, fundamental right, but laws like this one threaten to limit vulnerable women’s access to the full range of health services. The Supreme Court recently affirmed in Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt that where state restrictions on abortion care infringe on women’s access to these services, those restrictions are against the law. AAUW trusts that every woman has the ability to make her own informed choices regarding her reproductive life within the dictates of her own moral and religious beliefs, and those decisions should not be limited by finances.

Find information on Oregon Measures 103, 104, and 105 from AAUW of Oregon.

Missouri

Proposition A: “Right-To-Work” Referendum

Summary: On August 7, Missouri voters voted to reject a measure that could have had lasting effects for Missouri’s labor unions. Approval of Proposition A would have made Missouri a “right-to-work” state. Backers of these laws claim they prevent workers from being required to join a labor union or pay dues to a labor union as a condition of employment, but federal law already makes that illegal, and “right-to-work” policies actually make it harder for workers to form unions.

AAUW recommended voting NO on Missouri Proposition A.

AAUW’s 2017-2019 Public Policy Priorities promote “economic self-sufficiency for all women,” including “pay equity and fairness in compensation and benefits.” Union membership helps increase wages for all workers through the power to bargain collectively for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. “Right-to-work” policies weaken unions, leading to lower wages for everyone. Research shows that the gender pay gap is smaller between men and women who are union members. Women in Missouri continue to earn less than their male colleagues – just 78 cents for every dollar men earn. A “right-to-work” law could widen this gap even further, and lead to economic instability for women across the state. AAUW opposes any effort to reduce wages and benefits for women, and urged Missourians to vote NO on Proposition A.

Alaska

Ballot Measure 1: An act allowing qualified individuals to register to vote when applying for a permanent fund dividend

Summary: Adoption of Ballot Measure 1 would enable qualified Alaskans applying for a Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) to register to vote, allow registered voters to update their home addresses, and enable voters to opt out if they prefer to register by mail. Alaska currently requires PFD applicants to register to vote or update their voter registration using a separate form. The Permanent Fund Dividend consists of a portion of the state’s oil revenue, and a PFD is paid to anyone who has been a resident of Alaska for a full year and intends to remain in the state indefinitely. Roughly 70,000 Alaskans who are eligible for the PFD are not registered to vote.

YES on Alaska Ballot Measure 1.

AAUW’s 2015–17 Public Policy Program advocates for the vigorous enforcement of and full access to civil and constitutional rights, including voting rights. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder has left voting rights under attack, and in many states it has become more difficult for Americans to exercise their right to vote. AAUW supports the protection and expansion of voting rights and opposes any efforts to reduce access to the ballot box.

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Arizona

Proposition 206: Relating to Arizona’s minimum wage and earned paid sick time benefits

Summary: Adoption of Proposition 206 would increase the minimum wage in Arizona incrementally from $8.05 per hour in 2016 to $12 per hour by 2020. Proposition 206 would also entitle employees to earn one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, with limits based upon the size of the employer. Proposition 206 broadly defines the conditions under which paid sick time may be taken, including mental or physical illness; care of a family member; a public health emergency; absence due to domestic violence, sexual violence, abuse, or stalking; and prohibits various forms of retaliation against employees for exercising any rights under the law.

AAUW and AAUW of Arizona recommend voting YES on Arizona Proposition 206.

AAUW is committed to promoting the economic, social, and physical well-being of all persons. AAUW has long supported flexible workplace policies to address the family responsibilities of employees. Offering workers the option of taking time off when they or a family member are sick is not just good for women and families, it’s good for business. Without sick days, employees often come to work ill, which can decrease productivity and infect co-workers. AAUW’s member-adopted 2015–17 Public Policy Program also calls for a “living wage” and “reduction of poverty.” AAUW believes raising the minimum wage is an important step toward closing the gender pay gap and increasing the economic security of working women and their families.

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California

Find information on California Amendments 51, 52, 53, 55, and 58 from AAUW of California.

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Colorado

Amendment 70: Colorado $12 minimum wage amendment

Summary: Amendment 70 would amend the Colorado constitution to increase the minimum wage to $9.30 per hour with annual increases of $0.90 each January 1 until the minimum wage is $12 per hour (January 2020) and annually adjusting it thereafter for cost-of-living increases. The current minimum wage in the state of Colorado is $8.31 per hour.

AAUW and AAUW of Colorado recommend voting YES on Colorado Amendment 70.

AAUW’s 2015–17 Public Policy Program advocates for a reduction of poverty and for a livable wage. Women make up two-thirds of minimum-wage workers nationwide, and raising the minimum wage is an important part of ensuring their economic security and that of their families. Increasing the minimum wage has also been shown to help shrink the persistent gender pay gap.

AAUW of Colorado also recommends voting YES on Amendment T and Amendment 71. Learn more on their website.

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Maine

Question 2: Maine tax on incomes exceeding $200,000 for public education

Summary: Adoption of Question 2 would increase state funding for public education for grades K–12 by creating a 3 percent surcharge on households with incomes greater than $200,000, after all deductions. Question 2 requires funding from the surcharge be used for direct classroom instruction, including teachers, school nurses, and other critical public school personnel.

AAUW and AAUW of Maine recommend voting YES on Maine Question 2.

AAUW supports a strong system of public education that promotes gender fairness, equity, and diversity. In our 2015–17 Public Policy Program Biennial Action Priorities, AAUW advocates for “adequate and equitable funding for quality public education for all students.” AAUW opposes the use of public funds for nonpublic elementary and secondary education and to charter schools that do not adhere to the same civil rights and accountability standards as required of other public schools.

Question 4: Maine minimum wage increase

Summary: Adoption of Question 4 would raise the minimum wage in Maine to $9 per hour in 2017 and by $1 per hour each year after, until it is $12 per hour in 2020. The minimum wage then increases at the same rate as the cost of living. In addition, Question 4 increases the minimum wage for workers who receive tips to $5 per hour in 2017 and then by $1 per hour each year until it is equal to the general minimum wage, with a deadline of 2024.

AAUW recommends voting YES on Maine Question 4.

AAUW’s 2015–17 Public Policy Program advocates for a reduction of poverty and for a livable wage. Women make up two-thirds of minimum-wage workers nationwide, and raising the minimum wage is an important part of ensuring their economic security and that of their families. Increasing the minimum wage has also been shown to help shrink the persistent gender pay gap.

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Missouri

Constitutional Amendment 3: Missouri 60-cent cigarette tax

Summary: Amendment 3 would increase the cigarette tax in Missouri in 15-cent annual increments to $0.77 by 2020. In addition to the cigarette tax, the measure would also impose a fee on wholesalers of $0.67 per pack on cigarettes produced by a “nonparticipating manufacturer,” as defined by the state of Missouri. At least 75 percent of the revenue generated from these taxes would be devoted to increasing access to early childhood education programs. Around 10 percent of the funds would go toward grants for Missouri health care facilities. And approximately 5 percent would be devoted to smoking-prevention programs.

AAUW and AAUW of Missouri recommend voting NO on Missouri Amendment 3.

While claiming to address children’s education and health, Amendment 3 includes several problematic provisions. Among them is an exemption from Missouri’s prohibition of public aid for religious purposes and institutions, thereby weakening public education and potentially opening the door to school vouchers. AAUW’s 2015–17 Public Policy Program voices opposition to the use of public funds for “nonpublic elementary and secondary education and to charter schools that do not adhere to the same civil rights and accountability standards as required of other public schools.” Money raised from the tax implemented by Amendment 3 could be used to fund private and religious schools, institutions that are not bound by Title IX, the federal law banning sex discrimination in federally funded education programs, and other civil rights and accountability standards.

Constitutional Amendment 6: Missouri voter-ID requirement

Summary: Adoption of Amendment 6 would amend the Missouri Constitution to require voters to produce a state-issued photo ID in order to vote.

AAUW and AAUW of Maine recommend voting NO on Missouri Amendment 6.

Voter-ID laws are written and passed on the premise that voter fraud is a widespread problem, but research shows it isn’t. These laws don’t demonstrably protect against fraud and certainly don’t provide the legal basis for significant prosecution of fraudulent voters. They do, however, have the potential to disenfranchise many voters. This type of suppression tactic would disproportionally affect eligible voters who are less likely to possess a current driver’s license, like students, women, the elderly, low-income individuals, and people of color. AAUW’s 2015–17 Public Policy Program advocates for the vigorous enforcement of and full access to civil and constitutional rights, including voting rights, and opposes any efforts to reduce access to the ballot box.

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Washington

Washington Initiative 1433: Washington minimum wage increase and employer requirement to provide earned sick leave

Summary: Initiative 1433 would increase the state’s minimum wage to $13.50 by January 1, 2020. Thereafter, the minimum wage would be tacked to increases in the cost of living. Washington’s minimum wage is currently $9.47 per hour. The measure would also require employers to provide employees with paid sick leave beginning in 2018. Employees would be able to accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, which they could use in certain circumstances, including to care for family members.

AAUW recommends voting YES on Initiative 1433.

AAUW is committed to promoting the economic, social, and physical well-being of all persons. AAUW has long supported flexible workplace policies to address the family responsibilities of employees. Offering workers the option of taking time off when they or a family member are sick is not just good for women and families; it’s good for business. Without sick days, employees often come to work ill, which can decrease productivity and infect co-workers. AAUW’s member-adopted 2015–17 Public Policy Program also calls for a “living wage” and “reduction of poverty.” AAUW believes raising the minimum wage is an important step toward closing the gender pay gap and increasing the economic security of working women and their families.