6. Free form of the initiative

The initiative can choose between two options:a) a general proposal mentioning the specific goal(s) of the legislation and the main measures to be introduced (or changed), orb) a draft legal act.

7. Role of the Commission

The Commission has to check whether the formal conditions of the ECI have been fulfilled and that no conflict with European law exists. The Commission has to give its reasons in case of rejection. There should be strict time limits for the subsequent treatment of the subject by the EU institutions.

8. Five Rights of the Initiative

a) Right of advice from the Commission before gathering the signatures.

b) The right to be heard by the respective institutions (Commission, Parliament, Council).

c) The right that the text of the ECI is published without delay in the Official Journal of the EU and the Official Gazettes of the member states.

d) The right to challenge a rejection before the competent European Courts.

e) A reimbursement in part of the costs.

9. Verification by member states

This question should be decided by the member states according to their national electoral laws.

10. Free collection of signatures

It should be specified that the signatures can be gathered freely (by circulation/downloading of lists to be filled in and signed) and not only in government registration offices.

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