California backs stem cell research
Activists spent hundreds of millions of dollars an estimated $200m (€156m) in California alone on 163 initiatives in 34 states tackling issues as varied as tobacco taxes, electoral changes and tort reform.
In Arizona, voters comfortably passed a controversial proposition that targets illegal immigrants entering the southwestern border state from Mexico.
The measure requires individuals to prove eligibility when applying for non-federally mandated public benefits. Workers not doing so could face four months in jail and a $750 fine.
A legal challenge is expected. California passed a similar measure a decade ago only to have it struck down in court.
"This is a big win for the people of Arizona," said Randy Pullen, chairman of Yes on Proposition 200. "It sends a message to our political leaders that they need to do something about illegal immigration and what it's doing to the country."
In Colorado, voters rejected a measure that would have enabled the state to divide its nine electoral votes proportionally based on the popular vote. As George Bush won the state, keeping all the electoral votes intact helped him.
In some states, TV stations aired relentless initiative advertising. The late actor Christopher Reeve spoke for California's stem cell initiative allocating $3bn (€2.3bn) for research and $3bn to finance the bond. "Please support Prop 71. And stand up for those who can't," he said.
One recurring issue in the state initiatives are casinos. In California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger helped easily defeat two measures related to Indian gaming by arguing: "The Indians are ripping us off."
California voters rejected two measures to ease sentencing for criminals who have committed three crimes and to require smaller firms to pay health care costs for workers.
Floridians backed a measure that would require minors to gain parental consent to get an abortion, and a boost in the minimum wage to $6.15 (€4.80).
Voters in the Sunshine State also repealed a high-speed rail project passed four years ago.
Lawyers won voters' support on Amendments 7 and 8, which will open to the public more information about doctors' mistakes and take away the medical licence of doctors who make repeated medical errors.
Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure to hike taxes on a pack of cigarettes to 84 cents from 20 cents. Montana backed medical marijuana.
Alabama appeared poised to include the promotion of shrimp in its state constitution, as did Louisiana to enshrine the right to hunt and fish.
Initial results showed Alaskan voters rejected a measure that would have outlawed using food to bait bears out of the woods for photography or hunting.
In Ohio, voters agreed to ban indoor smoking in public places, delighting anti-smoking advocates and leaving bar and restaurant owners wondering about their future.
The ban is set to take effect on January 31.
Phil Harmon, an attorney representing the Columbus Bar Owners political action committee, said the battle could continue. One option is an initiative on a future ballot to exempt bars.
