What is a referendum in Missouri?

A referendum in Missouri is a process through which an amendment suggested by the General Assembly is presented to voters for their approval. This allows citizens to have a direct say in changes to the state constitution or laws. By involving voters directly, a referendum serves as a critical mechanism for public participation in the legislative process. When the General Assembly proposes an amendment, it often reflects a significant policy change or adjustment to existing laws, making the voter’s role vital in deciding if such changes should be enacted.

In contrast, the other options represent different concepts that do not align with the definition of a referendum. For instance, laws passed without voter input would not involve public approval, and are therefore not classified as referendums. Additionally, the process for electing state officials is a more standard electoral procedure and does not relate to voting on legislative amendments. Local elections for mayors are also distinct processes that focus on local governance rather than state-level legislative alterations.