Below are the MassGOP’s responses to the five state ballot questions. We stand firm on these critical issues, offering thoughtful and decisive perspectives. You can also explore our positions on these important matters by visiting our website HERE!
NOTE: These recommendations do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Attleboro Republican City Committee
Question 1 – State Auditor’s Authority to Audit
From legislation being crafted and debated behind closed doors in “Executive Committee,” barring press and public access, to the legislature being exempt from open meeting, open records, and fair procurement laws, Massachusetts ranks among the lowest in the nation for transparency. This is largely due to the consolidation of power by the Democratic supermajority. It’s no secret that this supermajority does not run the most efficient legislature. A vote to give Auditor Diana DiZoglio the authority to audit the legislature is a vote for greater transparency and to lift the veil of secrecy surrounding Beacon Hill. We wholeheartedly support Auditor DiZoglio’s efforts and strongly urge every Massachusetts resident to vote yes on Question 1.
Question 2 – Elimination of MCAS as High School Graduation Requirement
The MassGOP is voting no on Question 2 because eliminating the MCAS graduation requirement would undermine the progress and high standards that have made Massachusetts’ education system one of the best in the nation. The 2024 MCAS results show alarming declines, particularly in English Language Arts scores, with younger students experiencing the sharpest drops. Despite these concerning statistics, the teachers’ union is advocating for the removal of this vital accountability measure as a graduation requirement, calling MCAS just a “snapshot” of school performance. However, MCAS has long been crucial in setting clear expectations for both students and educators. Removing it would reduce the incentive for schools to meet the high standards we should be striving to restore, not lower. In the wake of nationwide educational setbacks caused by the pandemic, we cannot afford to take steps backward. Voting no on Question 2 is essential to ensure students graduate high school with the tools they need to be successful.
Question 3 – Unionization for Transportation Network Drivers
The MassGOP is voting no on Question 3 because it threatens the flexibility and affordability that make services like Uber and Lyft so popular in Massachusetts. Currently, drivers are classified as independent contractors, allowing them to work on their own terms while receiving competitive wages and benefits, including a base rate of $32.50 per hour, paid leave, and healthcare stipends. A yes vote would undermine this flexibility, raise prices, and force drivers to pay union dues, even if they don’t want to join. It would also set an unfairly low threshold for unionization votes, potentially violating federal labor laws. With Massachusetts already being one of the most expensive states to live and do business in, adding more red tape and higher costs is the wrong approach. The MassGOP urges a no vote on Question 3 to protect the rights and choices of both drivers and consumers.
Question 4 – Limited Legalization and Regulation of Certain Natural Psychedelic Substances
The MassGOP is voting no on Question 4 due to the significant public safety risks and costs associated with decriminalizing psychedelics. This ballot question would allow for-profit centers, home growth, and statewide distribution, which would inevitably lead to a black market. With drugged driving already on the rise, and 1 in 3 frequent psychedelic users admitting to driving under the influence, the passage of this question would increase these dangers. Additionally, the psychedelic ibogaine poses serious health risks, including life-threatening heart issues, and accidental ingestion of edibles is particularly harmful to children and pets. Furthermore, the proposed centers aren’t required to be run by medical professionals, putting high-risk individuals at greater risk of adverse reactions. This would not only compromise public health and safety but also burden taxpayers with the cost of another expensive commission, similar to the troubled Cannabis Control Commission. For these reasons, we urge a no vote on Question 4.
Question 5 – Minimum Wage for Tipped Workers.
The MassGOP is voting no on Question 5 because it will hurt everyone involved in the restaurant industry. By eliminating the tipped minimum wage, restaurants will be forced to cover the full minimum wage for tipped workers, driving up their labor costs. As a result, restaurants will make less money, and many could be forced to close their doors. Waiters and bartenders, who rely on tips to earn a living, will end up making less, as the incentive to tip will decrease. Meanwhile, restaurant patrons will face higher prices to offset these increased costs. This proposal jeopardizes the very foundation of the service industry, where restaurants, employees, and customers lose. We urge voters to protect the industry and vote no on Question 5.