This is the second in a two-part series looking at ballot measures and the questions being placed before voters in the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Part 1 looked at the history and process for ballot measures.

 

The following is a summary of the nine state ballot measures in the 2026 Massachusetts election, compiled from various sources. Further text and details on these measures are available in the state's official ballot guide and Ballotpedia, a non-partisan non-profit online political encyclopedia.

 

Question 1: This proposal would expand the Massachusetts Public Records Law to the state Legislature and Office of the Governor. This is intended to improve public access to documents and other records. The current public records law only applies to state agencies and local governments.

 

A Yes vote would support this change; a No vote would leave the Public Records Law as it is.

 

On one level, this question is straightforward. However, the details are complex. Massachusetts has often been criticized for a lack of transparency, even with the existing public records law. Passage would send a clear signal of the preferences of voters, but could be challenged or lead to further maneuvering.

 

A primary proponent of this is State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who had also filed a 2024 ballot question that requires an audit of the state Legislature. Among other effects, Question 1 is intended to advance that by allowing her to gain access to the information needed for an audit. It would also make records more available to journalists, organizations and individuals seeking information on legislative and gubernatorial actions.

 

Polls indicate strong support for the concept. However the measure has elicited mixed responses among politicians and officeholders. Gov. Maura Healey has said she supports the bill as long as certain exemptions are included. The state Republican Party and the Democratic Committee have expressed support for it.