Single House Legislature

"Let's trust the voters to decide how they will be governed in the next millennium." - Gov. Jesse Ventura

Many state leaders agree that a single house system of government would better serve Minnesotans. A single house would be more open, accountable and responsive. In a more streamlined legislative process, citizens would be able to understand and follow legislation. It would place the responsibility for representation squarely on the shoulders of a single elected legislature rather than on two houses that can hide behind one another to avoid taking responsibility for tough votes. A single house would bring power to the people instead of concentrating power in the hands of a few powerful conference committee members. Every amendment and every bill would be given the respect of a recorded vote. While some powerful leaders may oppose a single house, ultimately we should trust the people to decide this issue.

The Big Accounting Initiative Score

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Passage of a single house proposal in either house.

Ballot placement of the single house proposal.

Passage of a constitutional amendment for creation of a single house legislature in 2005.

Passage of a single house proposal in either house.

Note: The change to a unicameral legislature will fundamentally restructure the political landscape in Minnesota. Change will not come easily ... especially because one body of the legislature will be eliminated. In recognition of this change, the first indicator for this initiative must be the passage of a bill by at least one body of the legislature. The Administration hoped for passage in one house by February 2002.

Ballot placement of the single house proposal.

Note: The battle to create a unicameral legislature will not have been won with the passage of legislation from just one body. In order to be brought before the people of Minnesota for a vote, legislation must pass both bodies. Once it passes both bodies, it will be placed on the ballot. This is an important indicator because it ensures that the people of Minnesota -- and not legislators -- will be the ones ultimately making this decision. By late March 2002 the Governor hoped to sign legislation putting this question on the November 2002 ballot.

Passage of a constitutional amendment for creation of a single house legislature in 2005.

Note: Although the Governor believes strongly that the decision to create a unicameral legislature rests with the people (and he will respect this decision), he also personally believes a unicameral legislature is a better, more accountable form of government. For this reason, the final indicator of this initiative is the creation of a unicameral legislature. The Administration worked for passage of a constitutional amendment in November 2002 for the creation of a single house legislature in January 2005.