Special interest groups have raised five significant statewide questions that voters will be asked to consider on Nov. 3. Now that September is here, it’s time to look over our homework.

For those interested in an uncomplicated approach, it’s worth noting that the Legislature has already considered each issue. Those who are not inclined to overrule our representatives can simply mark their vote against the five initiatives.

The Journal Tribune has not yet taken a position on the merits of the individual questions, but this is our initial recommendation: Although the Legislature errs often, we have more confidence in elected officials than special interest groups.

The ballot also includes a state-proposed bond issue and constitutional amendment. The citizen initiatives, listed in the order they will appear on the ballot, are as follows:

Do you want to reject the new law that lets same-sex couples marry ”¦ ?

Maine became the fifth state to allow same-sex marriages this spring when the Gov. John Baldacci signed legislation removing a prohibition against it. The change was hotly debated in legislative hearings and opponents quickly organized a campaign to repeal it. In asking for repeal, opponents are seeking to reinstate a rule stating that persons of the same sex may not marry.

Do you want to cut the rate of the municipal excise tax by an average of 55 percent on motor vehicles less than six years old ”¦ ?

This proposal from the Maine Heritage Policy Center seeks to reduce a tax on vehicles that is paid when they are registered. It provides a break for the owners of newer cars and waives the tax on new hybrids, fuel-cell and highly fuel-efficient vehicles.

Do you want to repeal the 2007 law on school district consolidation ”¦ ?

The 2007 law set requirements for school districts to merge and reduce administrative costs ”“ or face penalties. Most districts in the area have consolidated with neighbors, or have been ruled exempt from the law.

“Do you want to change the existing formulas that limit state and local government spending ”¦ ?

Informally referred to as TABOR II, this proposal is a revision of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights initiative that was rejected by Maine voters in 2006. It sets spending limits on state and local government using population and inflation data.

Do you want to change the medical marijuana laws to allow treatment of more medical conditions and to create a regulated system of distribution?

Current law allows people with certain medical conditions to possess marijuana. This proposal changes the list of eligible medical conditions and allows for the establishment of nonprofit dispensaries.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen Schulze Muszynski or Nick Cowenhoven at 282-1535 or kristenm@journaltribune.com or nickc@journaltribune.com.