The Many Steps to Getting a Question on MA’s Statewide Ballot
August 19, 2025
2025-26 Ballot Question Timeline Initiative Petition for a Law
Even though Election Day 2026 is a long way off, scores of advocates are already working to get laws passed by the will of the voters rather than the Legislature. August 6 was the deadline to file “initiative petitions” with the Attorney General’s Office—just the first step of many.
- August 6, 2025: Last day to submit petitions signed by 10 original signers to the Attorney General.
- September 3, 2025: First day to file petitions certified by the Attorney General with the Secretary of the Commonwealth to request blank petition forms (petitions are provided within 14 days of request).
- November 19, 2025: Last day to submit signed petitions to local registrars of voters for certification.
- December 3, 2025: Last day to file certified petitions with the Secretary.
- January 7, 2026: First legislative day of the year – successful petitions transmitted to House Clerk.
- May 5, 2026: Last day for Legislature to act on petition.
- May 6, 2026: First day petitioners may request additional petitions from the Secretary.
- June 2, 2026: Deadline for petitioners to file an amended petition with the Secretary, with a certificate from the Attorney General that the amendment does not materially change the substance of the measure.
- June 17, 2026: Last day to file petitions with local registrars for certification.
- July 1, 2026: Last day to file certified petitions with the Secretary (first day is June 3, 2026).
- November 3, 2026: Election Day
From A Guide to Statewide Ballot Question Petitions, May 2025, by the MA Office of the Secretary of State, Election Division
share this
Related Articles
We’re excited to announce the release of The Health of Western & Central Massachusetts: Key Findings from the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessments. Every three years, hospitals are required to do a Community Health Needs Assessment . While each hospital posts its report publicly and focuses on its specific service area, we recognized the value of stepping back to look at the broader regional picture. This regional health report thoughtfully synthesizes findings across the five counties represented in those service areas. By summarizing shared needs and opportunities at a regional level, we aim to support more coordinated action. Now, more than ever, working and advocating together across the region is essential! We hope this report is useful to your organization and strengthens your collaborative efforts. We would love to hear your feedback and learn how it’s been helpful in your work.
Putting Resources into Practice: A Race & Health Equity Blog
We are hiring!
