Spotlight on California

Below is a table of initiatives and referenda currently in circulation (but not yet qualified for the ballot) as of January 11, 2012, compiled by the California Secretary of State.

Sep 12, 2011 - The California Senate voted down a bill (AB 375) last week that would have made it easier for hospital workers to collect workers compensation for certain ailments including blood-borne illnesses. Republicans were united in opposition to the measure, and just enough Democrats joined them or did not vote for the bill to fail.

August 30, 2011 - A bill (AB 52) that would allow a state government board to regulate changes in health insurance rates was passed on Aug. 25, 2011 by the Senate Appropriations Committee and awaits a Senate floor vote before the end of the legislative session. The measure was supported by the International Association of Fire Fighters, the California Teachers Association, and AARP and opposed by Blue Shield of California, UnitedHealth Group, and the California Chamber of Commerce.

July 18, 2011 - On July 14, the California Assembly cleared SB 168 by a vote of 48-28. The measure would make it illegal for a person to pay or to receive money or any other thing of value based on the number of signatures obtained on a state or local initiative, referendum, or recall petition. The measure passed both chambers and is being sent to Gov. Jerry Brown for his signature.

July 15, 2011 - The California Senate on Thursday passed the first of two "DREAM Act" bills, with one Republican joining all 25 Democrats in voting for the measure. The bill (AB 130) would allow undocumented immingrants who qualify for in-state tuition to apply for privately-funded scholarships. AB 130 had previously passed the Assembly on May 5 on a party line vote (51-22).