Bond Measures

Initiative -

The initiative process is the power of the people to place laws and constitutional amendments on the ballot. These measures can either create or change laws (including general obligation bonds) or amend the California Constitution.

To be enacted, an initiative measure requires a simple majority of the total votes cast. A “yes” vote approves and a “no” vote rejects a proposed law or constitutional amendment placed on the ballot through the initiative process.

Referendum -

The referendum process is the power of the people to approve or reject laws already adopted by the Legislature. However, this does not apply to laws that have urgency clauses, call for elections, or provide for tax levies or appropriations for current expenses of the state.

A “yes” vote approves a law previously adopted by the Legislature and allows it to take effect.
A “no” vote rejects the law previously adopted by the Legislature and prevents it from taking effect.