LINCOLN—Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen has ruled that the Respect Nebraska Voters ballot measure violates the state constitution’s single-subject requirement, preventing it from appearing on the November ballot unless the decision is overturned. The objection was brought by state Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh and former state Sen. Curt Friesen, who argued the proposal combines multiple distinct changes to Nebraska’s initiative and referendum system. The campaign strongly disagrees with Evnen’s decision and plans to challenge it before the Nebraska Supreme Court. The measure appears to have collected more than enough signatures to otherwise qualify for the ballot.

The proposal would raise the legislative threshold for changing voter-approved laws enacted since 2004 from two-thirds of lawmakers to four-fifths, while also imposing new restrictions on laws affecting Nebraska’s initiative and referendum process. Opponents argue those provisions represent separate subjects and could make it extremely difficult for future lawmakers to modify voter-approved policies or regulate the petition process. Supporters maintain the provisions share the single purpose of protecting Nebraskans’ initiative and referendum powers and preventing lawmakers from undermining decisions made by voters. The Supreme Court challenge will need to move quickly because Evnen must finalize the statewide ballot by Sept. 11.

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