Californians are highly supportive of the initiative process but see room for improvement. Three steps to improve the process-connecting the legislative and initiative processes, increasing disclosure of initiative funders, and reengaging citizens in the initiative process-reflect Californians’ critiques and their desire to continue making laws at the ballot box. These reforms could have far-reaching consequences, with considerable promise for increasing citizen engagement, encouraging voter participation, and building trust in state government.

This research was supported with funding from the S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation.