What must happen for an initiative petition to be valid in Missouri?

For an initiative petition to be valid in Missouri, it is essential that the petition gathers the required number of signatures. Missouri’s Constitution outlines specific requirements for the number of signatures needed from registered voters in order for an initiative to be placed on the ballot. This process underscores the importance of public support, as it reflects the will of the people who are proposing the initiative. The required number of signatures varies depending on whether the initiative is a constitutional amendment or a statutory change, and these thresholds are put in place to ensure that a significant segment of the population is in favor of the proposed measure before it can advance.

Gathering the necessary signatures is a critical step that engages citizens and encourages participation in the democratic process. Once the required signatures are collected and verified, the petition can then be presented for voting, allowing the electorate to decide on the issue at hand.