Voters Deal With Controversial Questions As Part Of MA Ballot

When Massachusetts voters go to the polls (next week) they will be voting for President, Senators and all of Congress. But there are also five ballot questions that are all controversial and all hot button topics. 

Question One on the Massachusetts Ballot is a question that would allow the State Auditor to “investigate the state legislature, overseeing and evaluating at least some of its activities.” State lawmakers have balked at requests from the Auditor to do that. Auditor Diana DiZoglio has called the Massachusetts legislature “one of the least transparent legislatures in the country. A “yes” vote will allow the auditor to investigate. A “no” vote keeps the system the same. 

Question Two asks Massachusetts Voters if Massachusetts should drop the standardized MCAS exam as a graduation requirement for high school students. Those that support elimination of the high stakes' exam say that teachers teach to the test and that puts students behind. The State Teachers Union has come out in support of elimination. The Massachusetts Democratic Governor Maura Healey says the graduation requirement should stay. Even if Massachusetts voters approve Question Two, the test would stay. Students would not have to pass it in order to graduate. 

Question Three would allow Lyft and Uber drivers and other drivers to form a union. Under the current law they are not allowed to unionize. Proponents say that the goal of the question is to approve life for drivers. They say that the drivers are working long hours and for little pay and benefits. Opponents say that a union could force strike issues. They also suggest there could be an increase in ride share rates. 

Question Four deals with a controversial medical issue. It would allow some psychedelic drugs to be used and grown and legally used. It would allow naturally occurring psychedelic drugs — like psilocybin and others to be grown. Those in favor of the question say that it is medically necessary in this day and age. Opponents say that since the psycodelics would not be allowed to be sold in stores, the creation of treatment centers would be prohibitive. 

Question Five on the Massachusetts Ballot would allow current “tipped workers” waiters and waitresses, those in the service industry to come under the minimum wage laws. It is a question that many in the industry do not agree on. Some workers say they make more money on tips. Some say it would be a fairer system for all. Some owners of eateries say that they may have to lay people off or increase prices in order to pay their workers.  If the question is approved, it would be phased in over time. It would be fully implemented in 2029. A yes vote would allow tipped workers to fall under minimum wage. A no vote keeps the system the way it is. 

(Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images)