Elections Code section 9034 requires that once proponent(s) of a proposed initiative measure have gathered 25% of the number of signatures required (currently 136,663 for an initiative statute and 218,661 for a constitutional amendment) proponent(s) must immediately certify that they have done so under penalty of perjury to the Secretary of State.
Upon receipt of the certification, the Secretary of State must provide copies of the proposed initiative measure and the circulating title and summary to the Senate and the Assembly. Each house is required to assign the proposed initiative measure to its appropriate committees and hold joint public hearings, at least 131 days before the date of the election at which the measure is to be voted on. However, the Legislature cannot amend the proposed initiative measure or prevent it from appearing on the ballot.
2003. (25-0027A1)
PROHIBITS NEW STATE LAWS THAT INTERFERE WITH RIGHT TO CONTRACT WITH AN ATTORNEY. INITIATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT.
Summary Date: 01/02/26 | Circulation Deadline 07/01/26 | Signatures Required: 874,641
(25% of Signatures Reached 02/25/2026 (PDF))
Proponent(s): James C. Harrison
Amends the California Constitution to prohibit new state laws that deny or interfere with a person’s ability to contract with an attorney of their choice. States that another measure appearing on the same ballot that would limit attorney contingency-fee contracts shall be deemed to conflict with this measure. Applies only to laws enacted on or after January 1, 2026; does not limit courts’ existing authority to regulate the practice of law or to prohibit illegal or excessive financial arrangements with attorneys. Summary of estimate by Legislative Analyst and Director of Finance of fiscal impact on state and local governments: No direct fiscal effect on state or local government costs because the measure preserves existing laws and rules as of January 1, 2026 related to attorney contracts. (25-0027A1.)
