The ability to sign petitions "on line" is just another mechanism to foster wider public participation in the democratic process.  I agree it would likely promote initiative adoption and that's a threat to "politics as usual."  It will be a great deal for "special interest" groups from anywhere on the political spectrum. It will not be great for the traditional political system where initiatives are so very, very difficult to enact.  I' guessing we'll see the "insider politicians" take a very strong position against the idea.  Gary Crum