(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – In this year’s election, voters were given the opportunity to weigh in – directly, on questions of economic justice showed policy preferences far more progressive than those reflected in many National and State election outcomes, according to the Economic Policy Institute (EPI).

Across the country, voters seized opportunities to approve State or Local Ballot Measures increasing the minimum wage, expanding Paid Leave, strengthening Workers’ rights to Unionize, preserving public education, and protecting access to abortion.

These ballot measure outcomes reflect a clear ongoing trend of strong voter support for policies that prioritize Worker, racial, and gender justice - and illustrate how State and Local Governments can continue to play important roles in enacting such policies, the EPI said. 

By the numbers: 

Voters approved minimum wage increases to $15 per hour in two States: Alaska and Missouri.  

Voters expanded Workers’ ability to earn Paid Sick Leave in three States: Alaska, Missouri and Nebraska.  

Voters approved a State Constitutional Right to abortion in seven States: Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and New York.  

Voters rejected school vouchers in three States: Colorado, Kentucky and Nebraska.  

Alaska voters opted to ban Anti-Union Captive Audience Meetings, while Oregon voters passed a measure to protect Cannabis Workers’ right to Unionize.  

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: A review of key 2024 ballot measures: Voters backed progressive policy measures | Economic Policy Institute