November 2024 Ballot Question Results in Massachusetts

Question 1: Right to Repair

Voters in Massachusetts overwhelmingly approved a ballot question that establishes a "right to repair" law, giving consumers the right to repair their own electronic devices.

The law requires manufacturers to make diagnostic tools, repair parts, and documentation available to consumers and independent repair shops.

Supporters of the law argue that it will reduce e-waste, save consumers money, and promote competition in the repair market.

Question 2: Ranked-Choice Voting

Voters also approved a ballot question that establishes ranked-choice voting for state elections.

Under ranked-choice voting, voters rank candidates in order of preference.

If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated and their votes are redistributed to the remaining candidates based on the voters' second choices.

This process continues until one candidate receives a majority of the votes.

Supporters of ranked-choice voting argue that it will make elections more competitive, reduce negative campaigning, and encourage candidates to appeal to a broader range of voters.

Question 3: Expansion of Casino Gambling

Voters rejected a ballot question that would have expanded casino gambling in Massachusetts.

The question would have allowed for the construction of three new casinos in the state.

Opponents of the question argued that it would lead to increased crime, traffic, and addiction.

Question 4: Tax on Millionaires

Voters approved a ballot question that imposes a 4% surtax on incomes over $1 million.

The revenue from the surtax is expected to be used to fund education and transportation.

Supporters of the question argue that it is a fair way to raise revenue for important public services.

Conclusion

The 2024 Massachusetts ballot questions were a mix of successes and failures.

Voters approved measures to expand voting rights, protect consumers, and fund public services.

They also rejected a measure to expand casino gambling.