States have enacted 37 bills and resolutions concerning the three powers of direct democracy in the U.S. — the ballot initiative, referendum, and recall election — in 2026, through Aug. 5, 2026. The average number of bills and resolutions enacted per year from 2018 to 2025 was 41.
While most bills are adopted during the first half of the year when state legislatures are in session, additional legislation can still be passed later in the year. So far, this year’s total of 37 is below both the 2018-2025 annual average of 41 and the record high of 78 in 2025.
State comparisons
