thinking big-how can I go about getting an initiative considered?

[freeplessinseattle]

I know this is probably just a pipe dream, but if Tim Eyman can get his loony initiatives noticed maybe I can bring some attention to the need for mental health funding. I was inspired by reading about CA's recent initiative to tax those making over 1 mil to support mental health programs. Of course, there's more millionaires in CA than most other states, but I'm trying to think of something along those lines. There is a great need for funding for so many non-profits, but mental health is my special interest what with my attempting to finish grad school to become a counselor, and being frustrated with the limitations of the care my loved ones have received. Western State Hospital is especially a pet peeve of mine, lordy.

Does anyone have any advice on how to go about inititiating an initiative process? I can get a number of mental health professionals to back such an idea, but have no clue where to start, but it's worth a shot.

[Dookus]

1. Here's all the info you need

http://www.secstate.wa.gov/elections/initiatives/imanual.pdf

The hardest part is getting the signatures... you'd need over 200,000.

[pinto]

2. one suggestion: don't copy the CA proposition, it didn't make it.

another: get some allied, organized help (for signatures), i.e. professional mental health organizations, health care unions, etc.

another: enlist a legal volunteer who's knowledgeable about government regulations.

another: expect opposition and plan for it.

another: reconsider. I am not a fan of government by initiative, so I need to include this one. maybe you could put your efforts to legislative activity? i.e. lobby your elected representatives using those resources.

[freeplessinseattle]

3. ooh, I just had an idea

what about a special scratch lottery ticket that benefits MH? All the tickets in WA fairly recently changed to benefiting education (I could swear before it was for the stadium,, any WA people remember?) That way it can go directly towards benefiting the potential gambling addicts (among other people) that purchase the tickets, much like some of the cig tax goes towards prevention education, and if they don't feel right about where their money goes they can buy a different ticket or none at all. The 10c tax on lattes for education was soundly defeated, but coffee is a more prevalent addiction, especially in Seattle.

Thank you both so much for your help!

[freeplessinseattle]

4. kick