Idaho’s November 2026 ballot includes a constitutional amendment that could shift power over marijuana policy from the people to the state legislature. The measure, listed as Question 1, asks voters whether only the Idaho Legislature should have the authority to legalize, produce, transport, sell, or otherwise regulate marijuana, narcotics, or other psychoactive substances.
What the amendment proposes
A “YES” vote would amend Section 26, Article III of the Idaho Constitution to give the legislature exclusive power to legalize marijuana and related substances. In practice, this would eliminate the current initiative process that allows citizens to propose changes to controlled‑substance laws through a statewide ballot.
A “NO” vote would leave the constitution unchanged, preserving the existing mechanism that lets Idaho voters initiate and approve changes to drug policy without legislative approval.
Why the measure matters
Supporters argue that centralizing authority in the legislature will create a more orderly, accountable process for any future changes to drug laws. Critics, however, contend that the amendment would strip Idaho’s citizens of a fundamental right to direct democracy, concentrating power in the hands of 105 elected legislators.
Idaho’s initiative process has historically been a key tool for voters to shape state policy. Removing that tool could set a precedent for further curtailments of direct voter influence on other issues.
Local perspective
Residents across the Treasure Valley and the rest of the state report long lines at polling places, underscoring the high level of civic engagement this election. Many Idahoans view the question as a test of whether the state’s constitutional framework should continue to empower ordinary citizens or shift that power to elected officials.
Local media outlets have highlighted the confusion surrounding the measure, noting that the ballot does not list a direct vote on legalizing marijuana itself. Instead, voters are asked to decide who should have the authority to make that decision in the future.
How to vote
Voters can mark either “YES” or “NO” on the ballot. The Idaho Secretary of State’s office provides sample ballots and voter guides to help citizens understand the implications of each choice. Those who wish to maintain the initiative process are encouraged to vote “NO,” while those who prefer legislative oversight may choose “YES.”
What’s at stake
The outcome will affect not only marijuana policy but also the broader balance of power between Idaho’s electorate and its legislature. A “YES” vote would give the 105 legislators the exclusive right to decide on the legalization of marijuana, narcotics, and other psychoactive substances, potentially reshaping the state’s approach to drug regulation for years to come.
Conversely, a “NO” vote would keep the current system intact, allowing Idaho voters to continue using the initiative process to propose and decide on changes to controlled‑substance laws.
Idaho voters are urged to review the official voter guide, consider the long‑term implications for state governance, and cast their ballots accordingly on Election Day.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
