California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB1337

Introduced
2/16/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Refer
3/20/24  
Refer
3/20/24  
Refer
4/3/24  
Report Pass
4/16/24  
Report Pass
4/16/24  
Refer
4/16/24  
Refer
4/16/24  
Engrossed
5/21/24  
Refer
5/28/24  
Refer
5/28/24  
Report Pass
6/27/24  
Report Pass
6/27/24  
Refer
7/1/24  
Refer
7/1/24  
Report Pass
8/7/24  
Enrolled
8/29/24  
Enrolled
8/29/24  
Vetoed
9/25/24  

Caption

Elections: form of petitions.

Impact

The implications of SB 1337 on state laws are significant, as it reforms existing practices related to the transparency of funding in electoral processes. By mandating that disclosure statements accompany the language of the petition itself, it aims to streamline information sharing for voters, ultimately reinforcing informed decision-making among constituents. Additionally, the bill requires that an official title and summary of the law proposed for repeal will be prepared by the Attorney General, enhancing the clarity of what is being contested in referenda submissions.

Summary

Senate Bill 1337, introduced by Senator Gonzalez, aims to revise the regulations governing the form and contents of statewide referendum petitions in California. The bill proposes notable changes aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the electoral petition process. Specifically, it eliminates the existing requirement for committees to create an Official Top Funders sheet, shifting towards a requirement for including a disclosure statement directly on the petition forms. This aims to simplify the petition process while ensuring that essential information about funders remains accessible to the public.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1337 is mixed, with proponents arguing that the changes will create a more straightforward and informed petitioning process. Supporters believe this will enhance accountability by requiring funders to be disclosed directly on the petition documents. However, opponents express concerns that the removal of the Official Top Funders sheet may undermine the depth of information available to voters about who finances campaigns. This highlights a tension between simplifying the process and ensuring robust transparency.

Contention

Debate over SB 1337 centers around the balance between accessibility and transparency. While supporters point to the bill as a way to reduce complexities for voters amidst bureaucratic processes, critics worry that simplifying the requirements can lead to less comprehensive information regarding funders. The success of the bill could hinge on whether it effectively balances these competing interests and whether these reforms translate into improved public trust in the referendum process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB1843

Elections: nomination documents: retention and preservation.

CA SB529

Inspection of public records.

CA HB3221

ELECTIONS-PETITIONS

CA AB1729

Examination of petitions.

CA SB2269

Recall petitions and recall elections for political subdivision officials.

CA SB495

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, application for recall petition.

CA SB495

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, application for recall petition.

CA HB440

Candidates for office; electronic filing of forms, petitions, and notifications.

CA HB440

Candidates for office; electronic filing of forms, petitions, and notifications.

CA HB972

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, petition for recall.

Similar Bills

CA AB421

Elections: referendum measures.

CA AB1188

Elections: statewide initiative and referendum petitions: disclosures.

CA SB752

Elections: disclosure of contributors.

CA SB1360

Elections: disclosure of contributors.

CA SB47

Initiative, referendum, and recall petitions: disclosures.

CA SB651

Initiative, referendum, and recall petitions: disclosures.

CA SB458

Initiative and referendum measures: title and summary.