Define: Initiative

In a legal context, an initiative refers to a process by which citizens can propose new laws or amendments to existing laws directly through the ballot initiative process, rather than relying on elected officials to enact legislation. Initiatives typically involve collecting signatures from a specified number of registered voters to qualify a proposed measure for inclusion on the ballot during an election. Once approved by voters, the initiative becomes law without further action by the legislature. The initiative process is a form of direct democracy that allows citizens to have a direct voice in shaping public policy and lawmaking. It is used in many jurisdictions, particularly in the United States, at both the state and local levels, to address various issues, including taxation, public spending, social policies, and constitutional amendments. While initiatives offer an avenue for citizen participation and empowerment, they can also be subject to criticism for bypassing the traditional legislative process and potentially leading to unintended consequences or conflicts with existing laws.

An individual’s action that begins a process, often done without direct managerial influence. For example, an employee might take the initiative to come up with a new product or service that the company could offer.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.