The proposed joint resolution seeks to amend the Constitution of the State of Iowa to establish a formal process for citizen initiatives and referendums. It allows qualified electors to propose amendments to the Constitution and the Iowa Code through petitions, which must gather signatures from at least three-fourths of the congressional districts in the state. Specifically, an initiative petition for constitutional amendments requires signatures equal to 8% of the total votes cast for governor in the previous election, while petitions for laws require 5%. The resolution stipulates that these petitions must be submitted to the Secretary of State at least six months before the next general election and outlines the procedures for the initiatives, including provisions for conflicting laws and the effective date of approved measures.

Additionally, the resolution provides a mechanism for citizens to refer bills passed by the general assembly to the electorate for approval. This process similarly requires a petition signed by qualified electors from three-fourths of the congressional districts, with a threshold of 5% of the total votes cast for governor. The resolution specifies that certain types of bills, such as those necessary for public safety or current state expenses, are exempt from this referendum process. If adopted, the resolution will be published and referred to the next general assembly for consideration before being submitted to voters for ratification.