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Behind the ballot propositions

By Christopher Francis -- email

Southern Arizona voters will have at least eight propositions to decide.  The exact number varies from poll to poll as several school districts and local communities also have questions on the ballot.

Statewide, here's the most influential propositions and what they mean:

Proposition 102 asks you to amend the Arizona constitution in regards to the definition of marriage.   If it passes, marriage will be defined in the state constitution as one man and one woman.  Arizona law already bans gay marriage, but supporters of Prop 102 say this will keep judges from potentially throwing the law out if it's challenged in court.

Proposition 105 deals with majority rule on initiatives that raise state taxes.  It would require those propositions to pass by a majority of all registered voters in Arizona, whether they've actually voted or not -- not just a majority of those voting.  Critics say that would doom just about any ballot measure that raises taxes.

Proposition 200 reforms the payday loan industry.  Voting yes would cap fees and enact other restrictions aimed at protecting those who take out the loans from getting deeper into debt.  But it also extends the law authoritizing Arizona's payday loan industry, meaning if voters reject it, payday loan businesses in the state would have to close after June 2010.

Proposition 201 institutes new rights for homeowners, including a ten year warranty on new homes and a 100-day cooling-off period for home buyers who change their minds to get their deposit back.  It also gives homeowners new abilities to sue, and critics say it will lead to more lawsuits.

Proposition 202 reforms the state employer sanctions law which punishes businesses for hiring illegal immigrants.  Prop 202 gives businesses more defenses and loosens some of the stricter parts of the law.

Voters in Tucson Unified School District will decide on Proposition 403, which raises property taxes to provide $28 million more a year for schools.  The average homeowner would pay about $128 more per year.