BOSTON – Voters in Massachusetts did just that five voting questions to be answered in the 2024 election. They will decide issues ranging from how tipped workers are paid, to the legalization of psychedelic drugs, and how MCAS exams will be used in the future.
Massachusetts Ballot Question 1
Voting question 1 concerns the power of the state auditor to audit the legislature.
A “yes” vote would give the state auditor the power to audit the Senate and House of Representatives on Beacon Hill.
A “no” vote would not change the auditor’s authority.
Massachusetts Ballot Question 2
Voting question 2 would eliminate the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam as a high school graduation requirement.
A “yes” vote would end the mandate that requires students to pass the 10th grade MCAS exam to graduate high school.
In the event of a “no” vote, the diploma requirement would remain in place.
Ballot Question 3 in Massachusetts
Voting question 3 would let drivers for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft form unions.
A “yes” vote would give drivers the opportunity to unite so they could negotiate for better wages, benefits and working conditions.
A ‘no’ vote would mean no unions.
Massachusetts Ballot Question 4
Voting question 4 is about legalizing the use of certain psychedelic drugs.
A “yes” vote would allow people over the age of 21 in Massachusetts to grow and use psychedelic substances. A committee would also be set up to regulate these.
A ‘no’ vote would keep psychedelic substances illegal in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Ballot Question 5
Voting question 5 would increase the minimum wage for tipped workers in Massachusetts.
A “yes” vote would increase the minimum hourly wage an employer must pay a tipped worker to the full state minimum wage over five years. Companies can then pool the tips and distribute them to all non-manager employees.
A ‘no’ vote would not mean a change in the law.
After the polling stations close at 8 p.m. you can follow the results per voting question on this page