Massachusetts Attorney General Reviews 47 Ballot Initiatives for 2026, 2028 Elections

More than 40 ballot initiative petitions have been filed in Massachusetts for potential inclusion in the 2026 general election, covering a broad spectrum of issues such as voter ID laws, same-day voter registration, housing affordability, and legislative reform. Attorney General Andrea Campbell will review these petitions by September 3 to ensure they meet constitutional requirements before supporters must collect tens of thousands of signatures to advance their initiatives. Notable proposals include repealing the MBTA Communities Act, instituting rent control with limits on annual increases, and reforming legislative stipends and transparency measures, reflecting public frustration with the state legislature's pace and responsiveness. Several petitions also seek to introduce open primaries and extend public records laws to state lawmakers, aiming to increase electoral competition and government accountability. While some groups advocate for rent stabilization to protect tenants, opponents warn such measures could worsen the housing crisis by discouraging development. The process underscores a growing use of direct democracy in Massachusetts as citizens and activist groups attempt to bypass legislative gridlock and address key policy issues directly through ballot questions.