There are two ways a measure can be placed on the ballot.

  • The Legislature has the ability to place constitutional amendments, bond measures, and proposed changes in law on the ballot.
  • Any California voter can put an initiative or a referendum on the ballot by following the "How to Qualify an Initiative process."

A statewide ballot measure can be approved by a majority vote of the people. Certain local ballot measures require approval by a 55% or a two-thirds vote of the electorate.