How to Evaluate Initiatives
Who are the real sponsors and opponents of the measure? Investigate the names of
groups with which you are not familiar.
Does the measure deal with one issue which can easily be decided by a “yes” or “no”?
Or is it a complex issue which should be thoroughly examined in the legislative arena?
Is it written well? Are there conflicts in the measure that may require court resolution
or interpretation? Is it “good government” or will it cause more problems than it
will resolve?
If the measure amends the Constitution, consider whether it really belongs in the
Constitution. Amending the Constitution is cumbersome and costly and requires
a vote of the people. Would a statue accomplish the same purpose?
Does the measure create its own revenue source? Does it earmark, restrict, or
obligate a specific percentage of General Fund revenues? Consider the effect on
the overall flexibility of the budget.
Examine the measure by its merits. During the campaign, be ware of distortion
tactics and commercials that rely on image, but tell nothing of substance about
the measure.
Courtesy of the League of Women Voters of California
