Which Way, L.A.?
Is California's Initiative Process Broken?
For the fee of just $200, a California lawyer has proposed a ballot measure to authorize the killing of gays and lesbians. It's outrageous and unlikely to qualify for the ballot, but experts agree that the Attorney General must give it a title and 100-word summary so signature gathering can begin.
By Warren Olney • • 24m ListenFor the fee of just $200, a California lawyer has proposed a ballot measure to authorize the killing of gays and lesbians. It's obviously outrageous and unlikely to qualify for the ballot. But legal experts agree that Attorney General Kamala Harris has no choice but to give it a title and a 100-word summary so signature gathering can begin. Do we need new rules for citizens to create laws outside the legislative process?
Also, should the under-age victims of sex trafficking be locked up for their own protection?
Photo: Elizabeth Jenkins
In this episode
2 storiesCalifornia's Ballot Initiative Process Is Up for Grabs
California's ballot initiative was established by legal reformers as an alternative to the legislative process. It allows citizens a way to create their own law — first by paying a fee, then by gathering enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. Now a Huntington Beach attorney has made a mockery of the process.
Read the story17 minShould Victims of Sex Trafficking Be Locked Up to Keep Them Safe?
Three years ago, California voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 35 — to greatly increase penalties for pimps who traffic in minors. In the past, the children have been treated as criminals and sent to juvenile hall, but the new law says they are victims of crime and should be treated with more compassion.
Read the story7 min
