Bob Stern

At the California Progress Report, Stern offers a brief description of some of his recommendations for the initiative process. This is well researched, and well thought out report. Of these recommendations, all of these make sense, and the idea of expanding the time limit to qualify a measure from 150 days to 365 days is a great idea that would allow more grass roots participaton in signature gathering. The only idea that doesn't make sense is the idea of a $100,000 contribution limit, which is almost certainly unconstitutional.

Here's a link to the major new report on the initiative process in California from Bob Stern and the Center for Governmental Studies. I'm still reading and digesting. I have some problems with the history, but otherwise, it's very well-done. Updated, 5/8: Steve Wiegand of the Sacramento Bee weighs in on Stern's proposals and is skeptical. I'm less skeptical, but still reading.