There are 45 Initiatives in Circulation — And More Coming

California's Capitol ^ | 12/15/09 | Greg Lucas

[NormsRevenge]

Former Gov. Hiram Johnson, recently posthumously inducted into the California Museum’s Hall of Fame, helped create California’s initiative process to break the stranglehold of the railroads on the state Legislature.

Johnson, a Sacramento native who was governor from 1911 to 1917, is likely spinning in his grave.

As of December 14, there are 45 measures being circulated for voter signatures, another 38 are awaiting titles and summaries by the Attorney General.

So far, three initiatives have qualified for the 2010 primary election – the most significant of which would create open primaries in 2012 allowing voters to cast a ballot for any candidate regardless of political affiliation. The top two vote getters advance to the November general election.

The Legislature’s recently approved $11 billion water bond is on the November ballot.

A measure that would particularly rile Johnson appears headed to the ballot, as well. It amends the state constitution to require local governments to get approval by two-thirds of their voters before providing electricity to new customers or expanding such service to new territories if any public funds or bonds are involved.

Bankrolled by Pacific, Gas & Electric, the statewide measure is designed to end a service area turf battle between the utility and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District.

While the number of initiatives in circulation or awaiting action by the Attorney General is high, the valid signatures of more than 433,000 voters are required to place a measure on the ballot, which amends state law. A constitutional change requires a minimum of nearly 700,000 valid signatures.

[NormsRevenge]

to paraphrase Pogo

we haz met the enemy

and them iz us.

[GeronL]

well, bye bye California

[P-Marlowe]

Johnson, a Sacramento native who was governor from 1911 to 1917, is likely spinning in his grave.

I think Johnson would more likely be turning over in his grave if he looked at the makeup of the legislature and the idiot governor we elected.

Arnold makes me wax nostalgic for the fiscally responsible days of Governor Moonbeam.