What You Need To Know About The 4 Mass. Ballot Questions

There are four statewide questions on the Nov. 8 ballot this year, and there's been quite a bit of debate on them. Below, we've collected our reporting on the questions to help you make up your mind at the polls.

This proposed law would allow the Gaming Commission to issue a second slots parlor license in the state. The question is very specific: If approved, the license would need to be awarded to a slots parlor that's located adjacent to and within 1,500 feet of a horse racing track. The question is supported by a developer with a plan for land in Revere, near Suffolk Downs. 

This proposed law would allow the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to approve up to 12 new charter schools, or enrollment expansions in existing charter schools, each year.

This proposed law would prohibit any farm owner or operator in the state from knowingly confining any breeding pig, calf raised for veal or egg-laying hen in a way that prevents the animal from lying down, standing up, fully extending its limbs, or turning around freely. It would also prohibit the sale of products from such animals in Massachusetts. 

This proposed law would permit the possession, use, distribution and cultivation of marijuana in limited amounts by persons age 21 and older, and would remove criminal penalties for such activities.