Ballot propositions allow voters to add, repeal or amend sections of the California constitution or statutes. Ballot propositions are of two types: initiatives and referenda. Initiatives are proposals by the citizens (for example, Proposition 13, passed in 1978, limited the tax rate for real estate). In referenda, which are rarely used, voters can petition to approve or reject legislative enactments.
When researching the legislative history of a California code section that was passed by a Ballot initiative, there will be no committee reports, hearings, etc. because there was never a bill that went through the typical legislative process used for enacting most statutes. Instead, documents that may be available include the text of propositions (which can be found in session laws and advance legislative services) or ballot pamphlets. Ballot Pamphlets are official publications prepared by the Secretary of State designed to inform voters about a proposed measure. They typically include arguments for and against the proposition, as well as analysis by the Legislative Analyst's office.
