In most legal systems, in order to initiate legal proceedings, potential plaintiffs must demonstrate that they are directly involved in the issues of a case in a way that is distinct from general members of the public. This means that an ordinary citizen cannot challenge a law as unconstitutional if they cannot prove that it has, or is imminently likely to, directly affect them. A doctrine of open standing would allow anyone to initiate legal proceedings in court. Plaintiffs would still need to demonstrate a valid legal argument. For example, under the status quo, new healthcare legislation which may increase many people’s premiums could not be challenged by a general member of the public. Under a doctrine of open standing it could be.