What legal mechanism allows Missouri citizens to propose changes to their constitution?

In Missouri, citizens have the ability to propose changes to their state constitution through a legal mechanism known as a Citizen Initiative. This process empowers voters to gather signatures in support of a proposed amendment or statute. Once enough valid signatures are collected, the proposed measure is placed on the ballot for a vote in the next election.

This form of direct democracy gives the citizens a voice in the legislative process, allowing them to initiate constitutional changes without solely relying on the legislature. It reflects the values of participatory governance by enabling the electorate to engage directly in shaping the laws and constitution that govern them.

Other mechanisms mentioned, such as a referendum, involve the legislature proposing changes that are then voted on by the public. While legislative bills can create laws, they don't directly modify the constitution without going through the established initiative process for constitutional amendments. Similarly, executive orders are directives issued by the governor and do not change the constitution or allow public participation in the amendment process. This distinction makes the Citizen Initiative the correct answer for proposing constitutional changes in Missouri.