What is the purpose of a referendum in state government?

The purpose of a referendum in state government is primarily to allow the electorate to approve or disapprove specific legislative proposals or constitutional amendments that have been placed on the ballot. This mechanism serves as a direct form of democracy where citizens can have their say on significant issues, thereby reinforcing the principle of popular sovereignty. Through referendums, voters can express their collective opinions on measures that may affect their lives, such as tax increases, bond issues, or policy changes.

This process ensures that major decisions are subject to public vote, providing a check on the legislative branch and allowing for greater public involvement in governance. Unlike the proposals of new laws or collecting signatures for initiatives, which may be preliminary steps in the legislative process, a referendum specifically targets existing proposals that have been formulated and are awaiting voter validation. It also differs fundamentally from the election of government representatives, as those elections select individuals to make decisions rather than directly deciding on policy issues.