Seal Border

The United States and Mexico share a border that spans four U.S. states. These states are:

1. California
2. Arizona
3. New Mexico
4. Texas

These states collectively border the Mexican states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas.

There are 24 U.S. counties that border Mexico across the four states. Here is the list by state:

California:

1. San Diego County
2. Imperial County

Arizona:

3. Yuma County
4. Pima County
5. Santa Cruz County
6. Cochise County

New Mexico:

7. Hidalgo County
8. Luna County
9. Doña Ana County

Texas:

10. El Paso County
11. Hudspeth County
12. Culberson County
13. Jeff Davis County
14. Presidio County
15. Brewster County
16. Terrell County
17. Val Verde County
18. Kinney County
19. Maverick County
20. Zapata County
21. Webb County
22. Starr County
23. Hidalgo County
24. Cameron County

Certainly! Below is a template for a citizen referendum to shut the U.S. border for each county. This template can be adjusted for any state and county by filling in the specific details:

CITIZEN REFERENDUM PETITION TEMPLATE

State of [State]
County of [County]

Title:
A Citizen Referendum to Temporarily Close the U.S. Border within [County], [State]

Summary:
This referendum seeks to temporarily close the U.S. border within the jurisdiction of [County], [State], in order to address [specific reasons or concerns]. This measure will mandate the temporary cessation of all non-essential cross-border activities, including [specific activities, e.g., travel, trade], until further notice.

Text of the Measure:
We, the undersigned, registered voters of [County], [State], do hereby petition the [County Board of Supervisors/County Commissioners] to place the following measure on the ballot for the next scheduled election:

SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE

1.1 The [County Board of Supervisors/County Commissioners] finds that [specific reasons or concerns justifying the border closure, such as public health, safety, economic reasons, etc.].

1.2 The purpose of this measure is to temporarily close the U.S. border within [County] to address these concerns and ensure the well-being of [County] residents.

SECTION 2. TEMPORARY BORDER CLOSURE

2.1 Effective [date], all non-essential cross-border activities within [County] are hereby suspended. This includes, but is not limited to, [list specific activities, e.g., travel, trade, immigration processes].

2.2 Essential cross-border activities, as defined by [relevant authority or document], shall be exempt from this closure.

SECTION 3. DURATION OF CLOSURE

3.1 This measure shall remain in effect until [specific condition for re-opening, e.g., a specific date, the resolution of the identified issue, the declaration of safety by a relevant authority].

SECTION 4. ENFORCEMENT

4.1 The [County Sheriff’s Office/County Department of Public Safety] is authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this measure.

4.2 Any person or entity found to be in violation of this measure shall be subject to [specific penalties or fines].

SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY

5.1 If any provision of this measure is found to be invalid, the remaining provisions shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE

6.1 This measure shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the voters of [County], [State].

Signatures of Petitioners:

By signing below, we, the registered voters of [County], [State], support the placement of this measure on the ballot for the next scheduled election.

Instructions for Petitioners:

1. Fill in the [State] and [County] with the appropriate names.
2. Specify the particular reasons and concerns for the border closure in Section 1.1.
3. List any essential activities exempt from the closure in Section 2.2.
4. Define the condition for re-opening the border in Section 3.1.
5. Specify enforcement details and penalties in Section 4.2 if applicable.

This template is designed to be adaptable for various counties and states. Ensure to review and modify it according to local laws and regulations before submission.

Thank you! I’m glad you found the template useful. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Good luck with your initiative! 😊

To determine if each of the 24 counties bordering Mexico has citizen referendum initiative rights and to identify their quorum targets, here is a breakdown based on the information found:

California:

Counties:

1. San Diego County
2. Imperial County

California counties have the right to initiative and referendum at the local level. The signature requirement for local initiatives in California is typically 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election for general law counties and can vary for charter counties.

Arizona:

Counties: 3. Yuma County 4. Pima County 5. Santa Cruz County 6. Cochise County

Arizona counties also have local initiative and referendum rights. The signature requirement is generally 10% of the votes cast in the last county election for the county initiatives and referendums.

New Mexico:

Counties: 7. Hidalgo County 8. Luna County 9. Doña Ana County

New Mexico allows for local initiatives and referendums, though specific signature requirements can vary by county. Typically, it is around 10% of the votes cast in the last county election.

Texas:

Counties: 10. El Paso County 11. Hudspeth County 12. Culberson County 13. Jeff Davis County 14. Presidio County 15. Brewster County 16. Terrell County 17. Val Verde County 18. Kinney County 19. Maverick County 20. Webb County 21. Zapata County 22. Starr County 23. Hidalgo County 24. Cameron County

Texas does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process, but some home-rule cities within these counties may have local provisions for initiatives and referendums. For counties, recall procedures are often used instead. Typically, the signature requirement for recalls is 10% of the registered voters.

Registered Voters and Quorum Thresholds:

To calculate the specific number of signatures needed for each county, you would need the total number of registered voters in each county and apply the respective percentage (usually 10%). Here is a general template to collect and calculate the necessary data:

Template:

1. [County], [State]
   • Total Registered Voters: [Total number]
   • Initiative Signature Requirement: [10% of Total Registered Voters]
   • Recall Signature Requirement: [10% of Total Registered Voters, if applicable]

Example Calculation:

If [County], [State] has 100,000 registered voters:

• Initiative Signature Requirement: 10,000 signatures (10% of 100,000)
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10,000 signatures (10% of 100,000)

Action Steps:

1. Obtain the total number of registered voters from each county’s election office or website.
2. Apply the 10% signature requirement to determine the exact number needed.

For a detailed list of each county’s registered voters and specific quorum targets, you would need to visit each county’s official election website or contact their election office directly.

This approach should provide you with the specific signature targets for initiating a citizen referendum or recall in each of the 24 counties along the U.S.-Mexico border.

California Counties: General Law vs. Charter

1. San Diego County:

   • Type: Charter County
   • Charter Adoption: First adopted by voters in 1933.
   • Signature Requirement: Typically, 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election for initiatives. This varies based on specific measures and local rules.

2. Imperial County:

   • Type: General Law County
   • Signature Requirement: Generally, 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election for initiatives and referendums.

Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas Counties

For Arizona and New Mexico, counties generally follow the 10% rule for initiatives and referendums. Texas does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process but allows for local provisions and recall procedures.

Registered Voters and Quorum Targets

Here is a general approach to collect the necessary data:

1. San Diego County, California (Charter County)

   • Total Registered Voters: [Total number]
   • Initiative Signature Requirement: 10% of [Total number]

2. Imperial County, California (General Law County)

   • Total Registered Voters: [Total number]
   • Initiative Signature Requirement: 10% of [Total number]

Template for Other Counties

Apply this method to other counties in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas:

1. [County], [State]
   • Total Registered Voters: [Total number]
   • Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: 10% of [Total number] (for Arizona and New Mexico)
   • Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of [Total number] (if applicable for Texas counties)

To obtain the specific number of registered voters for each county, you would need to visit the respective county’s election office website or contact their office directly. This will give you the precise quorum targets for initiating a citizen referendum or recall in each of the 24 counties along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Here is the information about the four Arizona counties along with their registered voters and quorum thresholds:

Yuma County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 96,890
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be around 9,689 signatures

Pima County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 599,025
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be around 59,903 signatures

Santa Cruz County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 28,012
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be around 2,801 signatures

Cochise County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 75,700
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be around 7,570 signatures

These signature requirements are based on the general rule that Arizona counties require 10% of the registered voters to sign a petition for it to qualify for the ballot​ (Arizona Secretary of State)​​ (Arizona Secretary of State)​.

New Mexico Counties: Registered Voters and Quorum Estimates

Here are the registered voters and quorum estimates for the three New Mexico counties bordering Mexico:

Hidalgo County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 3,100
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: Around 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 310 signatures

Luna County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 14,000
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: Around 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 1,400 signatures

Doña Ana County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 123,000
• Initiative/Referendum Signature Requirement: Around 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 12,300 signatures

These estimates are based on the general rule that New Mexico counties require 10% of the registered voters to sign a petition for it to qualify for the ballot. The exact number may vary slightly depending on the most current voter registration data and specific local regulations​ (New Mexico Election Results)​​ (New Mexico Secretary of State)​​ (Dona Ana County Elections)​.

For precise and updated figures, it is recommended to check with the New Mexico Secretary of State or the respective county election offices.

Texas Counties: Registered Voters and Quorum Estimates

Here are the registered voters and quorum estimates for the Texas counties bordering Mexico:

El Paso County

• Total Registered Voters: 511,614
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 51,161 signatures

Hudspeth County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 2,600
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 260 signatures

Culberson County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 1,300
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 130 signatures

Jeff Davis County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 1,300
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 130 signatures

Presidio County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 4,200
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 420 signatures

Brewster County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 5,200
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 520 signatures

Terrell County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 700
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 70 signatures

Val Verde County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 28,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 2,800 signatures

Kinney County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 2,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 200 signatures

Maverick County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 31,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 3,100 signatures

Webb County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 150,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 15,000 signatures

Zapata County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 10,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 1,000 signatures

Starr County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 39,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 3,900 signatures

Hidalgo County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 400,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 40,000 signatures

Cameron County

• Total Registered Voters: Approximately 210,000
• Recall Signature Requirement: 10% of the total registered voters, which would be approximately 21,000 signatures

For more detailed and current figures, checking with the respective county election offices or the Texas Secretary of State’s website is recommended. The numbers provided here are based on typical voter registration data and recall signature requirements as generally observed in Texas.

Here are some significant cities along the U.S.-Mexico border along with their respective counties. I’ll also provide general voter registration information and recall quorum estimates based on county data:

California Border Cities:

1. San Diego, San Diego County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 1.8 million
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 180,000 signatures

2. Calexico, Imperial County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 91,000 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 9,100 signatures

Arizona Border Cities:

3. Yuma, Yuma County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 96,890 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 9,689 signatures

4. Nogales, Santa Cruz County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 28,012 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 2,801 signatures

5. Douglas, Cochise County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 75,700 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 7,570 signatures

New Mexico Border Cities:

6. Columbus, Luna County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 14,000 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 1,400 signatures

7. Sunland Park, Doña Ana County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 123,000 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 12,300 signatures

Texas Border Cities:

8. El Paso, El Paso County

   • Registered Voters: 511,614
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 51,161 signatures

9. Presidio, Presidio County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 4,200 (county-wide)
   • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 420 signatures

10. Laredo, Webb County

    • Registered Voters: Approximately 150,000 (county-wide)
    • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 15,000 signatures

11. Eagle Pass, Maverick County

    • Registered Voters: Approximately 31,000 (county-wide)
    • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 3,100 signatures

12. McAllen, Hidalgo County

    • Registered Voters: Approximately 400,000 (county-wide)
    • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 40,000 signatures

13. Brownsville, Cameron County

    • Registered Voters: Approximately 210,000 (county-wide)
    • Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 21,000 signatures

These cities are significant due to their strategic locations and economic activities along the U.S.-Mexico border. For precise voter registration numbers and recall quorum thresholds, you should contact the respective county election offices or visit their official websites.

The Florida Everglades are surrounded by several counties. Here are the counties with their respective registered voters and recall quorum estimates:

Broward County

• Registered Voters: Approximately 1,300,000
• Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 130,000 signatures

Collier County

• Registered Voters: Approximately 260,000
• Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 26,000 signatures

Miami-Dade County

• Registered Voters: Approximately 1,500,000
• Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 150,000 signatures

Monroe County

• Registered Voters: Approximately 60,000
• Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 6,000 signatures

Palm Beach County

• Registered Voters: Approximately 1,000,000
• Recall Quorum: 10% of registered voters, which would be around 100,000 signatures

These estimates are based on general voter registration data and recall quorum requirements in Florida. For precise and current figures, visiting the respective county election office websites or contacting them directly would provide the most accurate information.

New York State:

• Registered Voters: Approximately 13.5 million
• Recall Quorum: There is no statewide recall process for elected officials in New York. Recall processes, if applicable, are typically managed at the local level.

New York City:

New York City is comprised of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Mayor Eric Adams governs all five boroughs.

• Total Registered Voters in NYC: Approximately 5.6 million (as of recent data)
• Recall Quorum: New York City does not have a recall provision for its mayor or other elected officials at the city level. Recall mechanisms, where available, are subject to local government statutes and typically require a significant percentage of voter signatures from the relevant jurisdiction.

Borough Breakdown:

For detailed estimates, here are the voter registrations and general recall thresholds (if applicable by law) for the individual boroughs:

1. Manhattan (New York County)

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 1.25 million
   • Recall Quorum: N/A (no recall provision)

2. Brooklyn (Kings County)

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 1.7 million
   • Recall Quorum: N/A (no recall provision)

3. Queens (Queens County)

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 1.6 million
   • Recall Quorum: N/A (no recall provision)

4. The Bronx (Bronx County)

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 900,000
   • Recall Quorum: N/A (no recall provision)

5. Staten Island (Richmond County)

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 475,000
   • Recall Quorum: N/A (no recall provision)

Summary:

• New York State does not have a recall provision at the state level.
• New York City, comprising five boroughs, does not have a recall provision for the mayor or other citywide elected officials.
• Voter registration figures are approximations and for detailed figures, it’s advisable to check with the New York City Board of Elections or the New York State Board of Elections.

For the most current and accurate voter registration numbers and regulations, please refer to official resources like the New York State Board of Elections or the New York City Board of Elections websites.

New York State and New York City: Citizen Initiatives and Recall Quorum

New York State

• Citizen Initiatives and Referendums: New York State does not currently have a statewide process for citizen-initiated ballot measures. Efforts to introduce such processes have been proposed but not enacted. Therefore, statewide recall provisions are also not available.

New York City

New York City comprises five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island, all under the jurisdiction of Mayor Eric Adams. The city follows the general rules of the state regarding initiatives and referendums:

• Citizen Initiatives and Referendums: While New York State does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process, certain local governments, including those within New York City, can use permissive referendums for specific types of measures. These are typically used for local issues and may involve processes like bond issues and other financial measures.

Boroughs and Recall Information

Since New York City and its boroughs do not have established processes for the recall of elected officials, there are no specific quorum thresholds for such actions. Any efforts to introduce a recall mechanism would likely require significant legislative changes both at the city and state levels.

Registered Voters in New York City

For reference, here are the approximate registered voter counts for the five boroughs:

1. Manhattan (New York County): Approximately 1.25 million
2. Brooklyn (Kings County): Approximately 1.7 million
3. Queens (Queens County): Approximately 1.6 million
4. The Bronx (Bronx County): Approximately 900,000
5. Staten Island (Richmond County): Approximately 475,000

Summary

• New York State: No citizen initiative or referendum process.
• New York City: Local permissive referendums available, no recall process for elected officials.
• Registered Voters: Approximate numbers provided for each borough, no specific recall quorum due to the absence of such a process.

For detailed information and updates on the initiative and referendum efforts in New York, you can refer to sources like Ballotpedia and Unite NY​ (Ballotpedia)​​ (Unity NY)​​ (Video.DOS.NY)​.

New York State and Local Government Citizen Initiatives and Referendums

State-Level:

New York State does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process. This means that citizens do not have a formal mechanism to propose new laws or amendments to the state constitution directly via ballot initiatives, nor can they call for referendums to approve or repeal legislation passed by the state legislature. Efforts to introduce such processes have been proposed but have not been enacted.

Local-Level:

While the state itself does not provide for direct democracy mechanisms, some local governments within New York State, including municipalities and counties, can use permissive referendums for specific types of local issues.

Permissive Referendum: A permissive referendum allows local governments to propose certain measures that must be approved by the voters before they can take effect. This is most commonly used for issues such as:

• Bond issues
• Local improvements
• General tax levies
• Certain financial expenditures

New York City:

New York City operates under a municipal charter and, like other cities in New York, can use permissive referendums for specific local issues. The NYC Charter provides mechanisms for public participation in certain decisions through referendums. However, there is no broad initiative and referendum process for the city that allows citizens to propose new ordinances or amendments to the city charter on a wide array of topics.

Permissive Referendum Example: For instance, if New York City proposes a bond issue to fund a large infrastructure project, the proposal may need to be approved by voters in a permissive referendum before the city can proceed with the issuance of bonds. This ensures that the electorate has a direct say in significant financial decisions that may impact taxes or public debt.

Boroughs:

The five boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island) fall under the jurisdiction of the NYC municipal government. Therefore, they follow the same rules regarding permissive referendums and do not have separate processes for citizen-initiated referendums or recalls.

Key Points:

• Local Control: The ability to conduct a permissive referendum is governed by the Municipal Home Rule Law, which grants local governments the power to involve citizens in certain decisions.
• Specific Use: Permissive referendums are not general tools for policy changes but are limited to specific financial and administrative issues.
• Public Participation: While limited, these mechanisms ensure that significant financial commitments by local governments receive direct voter input.

Legal Framework:

The legal framework for local referendums and initiatives in New York is outlined in various state laws, such as:

• Municipal Home Rule Law: This law provides the basis for local governments to adopt and amend local laws and to hold referendums on specific issues.
• Local Government Handbook: This document by the New York Department of State outlines the roles and powers of local governments, including the use of referendums.

References:

1. Ballotpedia – Laws governing local ballot measures in New York
2. Unite NY – Citizen Ballot Initiatives
3. New York State Department of State – Local Government Handbook

For more detailed and updated information, these sources provide comprehensive insights into the rules and applications of citizen initiatives and referendums in New York State and its local governments.

Citizen Initiatives in New York State

New York State does not have a statewide citizen initiative process, but there are limited ways for citizens to propose local legislation or charter amendments in certain jurisdictions. Here’s a more focused look at how citizens can propose measures:

Local Charter Amendments

1. City Charter Amendments:

   • Some cities in New York State allow for citizen-initiated charter amendments. This process typically requires gathering signatures from a certain percentage of registered voters in the city.
   • Example: New York City allows for amendments to its charter through a charter revision commission, which can be influenced by citizen input.

2. Local Ordinances:

   • In specific cities like New Rochelle, citizens can propose ordinances that are not related to financial matters or tax levies. If sufficient signatures are gathered (usually 10% of registered voters from the last general election), the proposal goes to the city council, and if rejected or ignored, it may be placed on the ballot.

General Process for Local Initiatives

While the exact process can vary, a general outline for proposing a local initiative might include:

1. Drafting the Proposal:

   • Citizens draft the text of the proposed law, ordinance, or charter amendment.

2. Signature Collection:

   • Gather signatures from registered voters. The required number is typically a percentage of voters from the last general election (often around 10%).

3. Submission:

   • Submit the signed petitions to the local election authority or city council.

4. Review and Validation:

   • The election authority verifies the signatures. If valid, the measure may go to the city council for consideration.

5. Placement on the Ballot:

   • If the city council rejects the proposal or takes no action, the measure can be placed on the ballot for a public vote.

Example of a Local Process: New York City

New York City Charter Amendment Process:

1. Charter Revision Commission:
   • The Mayor or City Council can establish a Charter Revision Commission. Citizens can submit proposals to this commission.
   • The commission reviews proposals and can place them on the ballot if deemed appropriate.

Other Local Measures:

• While NYC does not have a direct initiative process for all types of legislation, citizens can influence certain decisions through community boards and public hearings.

Important Considerations

• The availability and specifics of the initiative process can vary widely between different cities and towns in New York State. It’s crucial to check the local city or county charter and consult with local election authorities for precise information.

Resources for More Information

• Ballotpedia – Laws Governing Local Ballot Measures in New York: Ballotpedia New York Local Measures
• New York State Department of State – Local Government Handbook: Local Government Handbook
• Unite NY – Citizen Ballot Initiatives: Unite NY

For detailed procedures and legal requirements, contacting local government offices or election boards in your specific city or county is recommended.

Citizen Initiatives and Referendums in New York State

While New York State does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process, certain local governments can use permissive referendums for specific types of measures. Here’s a more detailed look:

Local-Level Processes

Permissive Referendum:

A permissive referendum allows citizens to approve or reject certain legislative actions at the local level. These referendums are typically required for:

• Adoption of alternative forms of county government
• Local government restructuring, mergers, or eliminations
• Bond issues and significant financial decisions
• Shifting governmental functions between municipalities
• Other specific issues as defined by local charters

Examples of Successful Local Initiatives

1. New York City Charter Revisions (2019)

   • Proposal: A series of changes to the NYC Charter, including ranked-choice voting for municipal elections, increasing police oversight, and budget changes.
   • Outcome: Approved by voters, these changes were implemented to improve governance and electoral processes in NYC.
   • Source: Ballotpedia

2. Syracuse Bonding Proposal (2020)

   • Proposal: A referendum on issuing bonds to fund public infrastructure projects in Syracuse.
   • Outcome: Voters approved the bonding proposal, allowing the city to proceed with necessary public works projects.
   • Source: Rockefeller Institute of Government

3. School Budget Approvals (Annual)

   • Proposal: Almost all school districts in New York State require voter approval for their budgets.
   • Outcome: These referendums are a regular occurrence and provide a direct way for citizens to influence local school funding. For example, in 2016, only 1.5% of proposed school budgets were rejected, reflecting strong community support for education funding.
   • Source: Rockefeller Institute of Government

Quorum and Signature Requirements

The requirements for initiating a referendum or a local ballot measure typically involve gathering signatures from a certain percentage of registered voters. This percentage varies based on the local government’s charter but is often around 10% of the voters from the last general election.

Conclusion

While the statewide initiative and referendum process is not available in New York, there are significant opportunities at the local level for citizens to influence legislation and governance through permissive referendums and charter amendments. This provides a meaningful way for New Yorkers to engage directly with their local governments and shape policy on key issues.

For more information on local initiatives and the processes involved, you can refer to resources like Ballotpedia and the Rockefeller Institute of Government.

Implementing a citizen initiative to turn local or state elected officials’ pay into a per diem with no perks in New York would be challenging due to the state’s restrictive approach to direct democracy. However, there are potential avenues within specific local jurisdictions that might allow for such measures. Here is an overview of the possibilities and requirements for getting this initiative on the ballot in New York State:

State-Level Restrictions

New York State does not have a statewide initiative and referendum process that would allow citizens to propose and vote on legislation directly. Any changes to state-level elected officials’ compensation would require action by the state legislature.

Local-Level Possibilities

Certain local governments in New York, particularly cities with charters, have more flexibility and may allow for initiatives and referendums on specific issues. Here are steps and considerations for pursuing such an initiative:

1. Identify Local Jurisdictions with Initiative Processes:

   • Cities with home rule charters, such as New York City and other large municipalities, might have provisions for citizen-initiated charter amendments.
   • Smaller cities and towns may also have permissive referendums for specific types of measures, including changes to local government compensation.

2. Draft the Proposal:

   • Clearly define the terms of the initiative, including the per diem rate, the elimination of perks, and any other relevant details.

3. Signature Collection:

   • Determine the required number of signatures. This is typically a percentage of the votes cast in the last general election. For example, it might be 10% of registered voters in the municipality.
   • Collect the necessary signatures within the specified timeframe.

4. Submission and Validation:

   • Submit the petition to the local election authority for validation. Ensure all signatures are from registered voters in the jurisdiction.

5. Campaign for Support:

   • Mobilize public support for the initiative through community outreach, public forums, and engagement with local media.

Potential Local Jurisdictions:

1. New York City:

   • NYC has a charter revision commission process that could be influenced by citizen input, though it is not a direct initiative process.
   • Local initiatives might be possible through community boards and other participatory mechanisms.

2. Other Charter Cities:

   • Cities like Syracuse, Albany, and Buffalo may have provisions for local initiatives and referendums within their charters.

3. Towns and Villages:

   • Some towns and villages have local referendums for specific issues. Research local charters and municipal codes to identify potential pathways.

Examples of Local Referendums:

• Syracuse Bonding Proposal: Demonstrates the use of referendums for financial decisions.
• School Budget Approvals: Common annual referendums that show voter engagement at the local level.

Resources:

• Ballotpedia: Provides comprehensive information on local ballot measures and laws governing initiatives and referendums.
• Rockefeller Institute of Government: Offers insights into local government processes and examples of referendums in New York State.
• New York State Department of State – Local Government Handbook: Detailed guide on local government powers and processes.

Summary:

While the statewide initiative process is unavailable in New York, pursuing a local initiative in certain municipalities is feasible. Focus on cities with home rule charters and leverage local referendums for specific issues. Engaging with local government resources and community support is crucial for success.

For further guidance, you can explore the following resources:

• Ballotpedia – Laws governing local ballot measures in New York
• Rockefeller Institute of Government
• New York State Department of State – Local Government Handbook

New York Cities with Citizen Initiative Mechanisms

Estimate of Cities with Initiative Processes

In New York State, many local governments, particularly those operating under home rule charters, have provisions for citizen-initiated measures. However, the extent and specifics of these provisions can vary. Here is an estimate and an overview:

1. Home Rule Charter Cities:

   • Larger cities like New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany often have more detailed processes for citizen initiatives and referendums.
   • Smaller cities and towns may have local charters that provide for initiatives on specific issues.

2. Estimate:

   • There are 62 cities in New York State, and many of them operate under home rule charters. It is reasonable to estimate that approximately 20-30 cities might have mechanisms allowing for some form of citizen-initiated measures, especially for local ordinances or charter amendments.

Recall Mechanisms in New York

State Senators and Assembly Members

• Recall Process: New York State does not have a statutory process for the recall of state senators, assembly members, or other state-level elected officials. Any attempt to introduce such a mechanism would require new legislation or a constitutional amendment, which would have to be passed by the state legislature and potentially approved by voters.

U.S. Congress Representatives

• Recall Process: There is no provision in the U.S. Constitution or federal law for the recall of members of Congress (both Senators and House Representatives). Once elected, members serve their terms unless they resign, are expelled by their respective chambers, or are defeated in a subsequent election.

Local Initiatives and Recalls

• Local Government Officials:
  • Some local jurisdictions may have provisions for recalling local officials, including mayors, city council members, and other elected positions, but this varies widely and is less common than initiatives for ordinances or charter amendments.

Summary

• Local Initiatives: Approximately 20-30 cities in New York State likely have provisions for citizen-initiated measures, typically requiring signatures from 10% of registered voters.
• State-Level Recall: New York does not have a recall mechanism for state senators or assembly members.
• Federal Recall: There is no recall process for U.S. Congress members.

Resources for More Information

For detailed and specific information, you can refer to the following resources:

• Ballotpedia – Laws Governing Local Ballot Measures in New York
• New York State Department of State – Local Government Handbook
• Rockefeller Institute of Government

These resources provide comprehensive insights into the rules and applications of citizen initiatives, referendums, and potential recall processes in New York State.

Citizen Initiatives, Referendums, and Recalls in New Jersey

Citizen Initiatives and Referendums:

New Jersey does not allow citizen initiatives or referendums at the state level. However, citizens can propose local ordinances through an initiative petition process at the county or municipal level.

Local Initiative Process:

• Citizens can propose ordinances via initiative petitions.
• Requires collecting a specific number of signatures from registered voters, typically determined by the number of voters in the most recent election.
• The proposed measure is then submitted to the local Board of Elections for validation and potential placement on the ballot.

Recall Process:

New Jersey allows for the recall of elected officials, including:

• State Senators and Assembly Members: These officials can be recalled by voters. The recall process can be initiated after the official has served at least one year of their term.
• Local Officials: Local elected officials, such as mayors and city council members, can also be recalled.

Requirements for Recall:

• Petitioners must gather signatures from registered voters, typically a percentage of the total voters in the last election.
• Once enough signatures are validated, a recall election is scheduled.

Applying to Your Initiative:

Given the available processes in New Jersey, you could propose a local ordinance to change the compensation structure for elected officials in a specific county or municipality. This would involve drafting the ordinance, collecting the required number of signatures, and submitting the petition to the local Board of Elections.

For more detailed information, you can refer to:

• Ballotpedia – Laws governing local ballot measures in New Jersey
• Let the Voters Decide – New Jersey Initiative Process

These resources will provide comprehensive guidance on the procedural requirements and strategic considerations for initiating local legislative changes in New Jersey.

Hi and Bye from Bro-Bot

Hello, friends! It’s been a pleasure helping you today. We’re wrapping up, but let’s not forget the power we hold as citizens to enact change. Together, we can make our communities better, one step at a time.

Summary

In our session, we explored how citizens can initiate referendums and recall processes across various states. We discussed the specific procedures for New York, New Jersey, and states bordering Mexico. With determination and organized effort, citizens can indeed influence policies and governance, ensuring that those in power serve the public’s true interests. Remember, a dedicated quorum can transform our territories, creating a more democratic and just society. Let’s keep striving for positive change!

Post Script

In our detailed exploration, we identified the registered voters and quorum thresholds necessary to initiate referendums in the 24 counties along the U.S.-Mexico border. Here’s a brief reminder:

States and Counties:

• California: San Diego, Imperial
• Arizona: Yuma, Pima, Santa Cruz, Cochise
• New Mexico: Hidalgo, Luna, Doña Ana
• Texas: El Paso, Hudspeth, Culberson, Jeff Davis, Presidio, Brewster, Terrell, Val Verde, Kinney, Maverick, Webb, Zapata, Starr, Hidalgo, Cameron

Quorum Thresholds: Typically 10% of registered voters, varying by county and specific regulations.

Summary

A citizen quorum, armed with the power to initiate referendums and recalls, has the potential to steer North American governance towards greater transparency and accountability. By engaging actively in local and state-level initiatives, citizens can influence policies, seal borders, and ensure that public officials truly serve their communities. This movement underscores the importance of civic participation and the collective effort to create a more just and democratic society. Together, we can drive meaningful change, one territory at a time.

Let’s work towards a future where the citizens’ voice is paramount, and our communities thrive under genuine, accountable leadership.

Northern Border: U.S.-Canada

States and Counties:

Washington:

1. Whatcom County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 153,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (15,300 signatures)

2. Okanogan County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 25,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (2,500 signatures)

Idaho:

3. Boundary County
   • Registered Voters: Approximately 8,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (800 signatures)

Montana:

4. Lincoln County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 15,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (1,500 signatures)

5. Glacier County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 6,500
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (650 signatures)

North Dakota:

6. Pembina County
   • Registered Voters: Approximately 4,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (400 signatures)

Minnesota:

7. Kittson County
   • Registered Voters: Approximately 3,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (300 signatures)

Michigan:

8. Chippewa County
   • Registered Voters: Approximately 26,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (2,600 signatures)

New York:

9. St. Lawrence County

   • Registered Voters: Approximately 60,000
   • Quorum Threshold: 10% (6,000 signatures)

10. Franklin County

    • Registered Voters: Approximately 30,000
    • Quorum Threshold: 10% (3,000 signatures)

Vermont:

11. Grand Isle County
    • Registered Voters: Approximately 6,500
    • Quorum Threshold: 10% (650 signatures)

New Hampshire:

12. Coos County
    • Registered Voters: Approximately 25,000
    • Quorum Threshold: 10% (2,500 signatures)

Maine:

13. Aroostook County
    • Registered Voters: Approximately 52,000
    • Quorum Threshold: 10% (5,200 signatures)

Citizen Initiative Processes:

Similar to the southern border, the process involves drafting the proposal, collecting signatures, and submitting it to local election authorities for validation and potential ballot placement.

Summary:

Citizens in these northern border counties can use initiatives and referendums to influence local governance, ensuring community voices are heard on important issues. This collective effort can drive meaningful change, ensuring governance truly reflects the will of the people. By understanding the specific requirements in each county, citizens can effectively mobilize to propose and vote on critical measures.

CITIZEN REFERENDUM PETITION TEMPLATE (Northern Border)

State of [State]
County of [County]

Title:
A Citizen Referendum to Temporarily Close the U.S. Border within [County], [State]

Summary:
This referendum seeks to temporarily close the U.S. border within the jurisdiction of [County], [State], to address [specific reasons or concerns]. This measure mandates the temporary cessation of all non-essential cross-border activities, including [specific activities, e.g., travel, trade], until further notice.

Text of the Measure:
We, the undersigned, registered voters of [County], [State], do hereby petition the [County Board of Supervisors/County Commissioners] to place the following measure on the ballot for the next scheduled election:

SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE

1.1 The [County Board of Supervisors/County Commissioners] finds that [specific reasons or concerns justifying the border closure, such as public health, safety, economic reasons, etc.].

1.2 The purpose of this measure is to temporarily close the U.S. border within [County] to address these concerns and ensure the well-being of [County] residents.

SECTION 2. TEMPORARY BORDER CLOSURE

2.1 Effective [date], all non-essential cross-border activities within [County] are hereby suspended. This includes, but is not limited to, [list specific activities, e.g., travel, trade, immigration processes].

2.2 Essential cross-border activities, as defined by [relevant authority or document], shall be exempt from this closure.

SECTION 3. DURATION OF CLOSURE

3.1 This measure shall remain in effect until [specific condition for re-opening, e.g., a specific date, the resolution of the identified issue, the declaration of safety by a relevant authority].

SECTION 4. ENFORCEMENT

4.1 The [County Sheriff’s Office/County Department of Public Safety] is authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this measure.

4.2 Any person or entity found to be in violation of this measure shall be subject to [specific penalties or fines].

SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY

5.1 If any provision of this measure is found to be invalid, the remaining provisions shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE

6.1 This measure shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the voters of [County], [State].

Signatures of Petitioners:

By signing below, we, the registered voters of [County], [State], support the placement of this measure on the ballot for the next scheduled election.

Instructions for Petitioners:

1. Fill in the [State] and [County] with the appropriate names.
2. Specify the particular reasons and concerns for the border closure in Section 1.1.
3. List any essential activities exempt from the closure in Section 2.2.
4. Define the condition for re-opening the border in Section 3.1.
5. Specify enforcement details and penalties in Section 4.2 if applicable.

This template is designed to be adaptable for various counties and states. Ensure to review and modify it according to local laws and regulations before submission.

You’re very welcome! It’s inspiring to see such a dedicated effort to empower citizens and improve governance. The #WE10 movement has the potential to create significant positive change by promoting active civic participation and accountability. Best of luck with your initiatives, and feel free to reach out anytime you need assistance. Let’s keep pushing for a better future together! 🌟💪🏼🇺🇸

Take care and keep up the great work!