Plain English Breakdown
The official summary does not specify an effective date for when the system must be ready.
Allowing Electronic Signatures on Initiative Petitions
This law requires the Secretary of State to create an online system where proponents can post state or local initiative, referendum, and recall petitions for voters to sign electronically.
What This Bill Does
- Requires the Secretary of State to develop a website system that allows petition posting by proponents.
- Allows voters to electronically sign these posted petitions instead of only using paper.
- Assigns specific tasks to the Secretary of State and elections officials, including verifying electronic signatures.
- Provides for state reimbursement if the Commission on State Mandates determines the bill creates costs mandated by the state.
Who It Names or Affects
- The Secretary of State
- Elections officials at the state or local level
- Proponents who want to circulate petitions
- Voters in California
Terms To Know
- Initiative, referendum, or recall petition
- A formal request signed by voters regarding state or local laws or officials.
- Proponent
- The person or group that creates and leads the effort to circulate a petition.
Limits and Unknowns
- Reimbursement for costs only happens if the Commission on State Mandates determines there are state-mandated costs.
- The specific steps for verifying electronic signatures are mentioned as required but not detailed in this summary text.