Legal Research

 

Event - Pro Bono Week Public Legal Services Fair

Public Legal Services Fair

 

Program - Divorce Options Workshop

Your Divorce Options - What You Need to Know!

 

Notorious Los Angeles Trials of the 20th Century

Title Card
• Exhibit Cards

 

Sergio Garcia: Immigration Law in the United States

• Exhibit Case
• Sergio Garcia

 

Panel Discussion: To Remake Justice in 2013: Responding to the Growing Justice Gap

• Invitation

 

Balanced Video Solutions (Video Sample)

Atlanta CareerWise

Read more...

 

ccjThe LA Law Library is proud to support the California Consumer Justice Coalition in providing assistance to people at risk of foreclosure or facing other consumer debt issues. This section of the LA Law Library website provides information and resources that will help you learn more about a wide range of legal issues, including foreclosure, debt collection, landlord-tenant issues, problems with money, suing someone or being sued. For additional information on the resources and services available at the LA Law Library, click here to visit the rest of our site.

 

 = Direct Link    = Database (Multi-Step)    = PDF Document

 

Foreclosure

Web link Overview of Foreclosures - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

PDF Document Tenants' Rights in Foreclosed on Properties - Housing and Economic Rights Advocates

Web link Foreclosure Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Foreclosure Prevention - LawHelpCalifornia

 

Sued by Credit Card Company

Web link Problems with Money - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Collection of Credit Card Debt - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link How to Respond to a Credit Card Case - Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Consumer & Small Claims - LawHelpCalifornia

Web link What Can I do if I Can't Pay my Debts? - State Bar of California Pamphlet

Web link Lawsuits From the Defendant's Point of View: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 8.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

 

Paying/Failure to Pay the Judgment

Web link Paying the Judgment - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

PDF Document Requesting Installment Payments - Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Are You Judgment Proof? - Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Ask the Court to Stop or Reduce a Bank Levy - Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Ask the Court to Stop or Reduce Wage Garnishment - Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Exemptions from Enforcement of Judgment - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Collecting Money When You Win a Lawsuit

Web link Collecting the Judgment - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Enforcement of Judgments - Research Guide - Sacramento County Law Library

Web link Collecting and Resisting Court Judgments - Research Guides - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Get Information about the Debtor's Assets - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Sample Questions to Ask a Debtor - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Ways to Collect from the Debtor - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Discover the Judgment Debtor's Assets - Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Adding Costs and Interest to a Judgment - Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Collect Your Judgment from the Debtor's Paycheck - Step-by-Step guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Acknowledgment of Satisfaction of Judgment - Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

 

For Tenants

Web link Guide to Evictions for Tenants - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Eviction Forms - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Landlord/Tenant: For Tenants - Virtual Self Help Law Center (Contra Costa County)

Web link What Should I Know Before I Rent? - State Bar of California Pamphlet

Web link Landlord Tenant Issues - LawHelpCalifornia

Web link Evictions Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Eviction - Virtual Self-Help Law Center (Contra Costa County)

Web link Tenants' Rights Legal Clinic - Coalition for Economic Survival

Web link Housing Rights Center

Web link Eviction: California Eviction Defense Manual. Volume 1, Chapters 5-8. CEB Onlaw. (Click here, then click ‘Real Property’) 

 

Security Deposits

Web link Overview of Security Deposits - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Demand Letter Asking Landlord to Return Security Deposit - California Courts Online Self Help Center 

Web link Security Deposits and Last Month's Rent: California Tenants' Rights, Chapter 13.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

 

General Information

Web link Court Basics -California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Before You File Your Case - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Filing Papers in Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Sample Pleading Paper - Los Angeles County Superior Court (Click here, then click ‘Open’)

Web link Sample Pleading Paper - Central Disctrict of California (Click here, then click ‘Open’)

Web link Sample Pleading Paper - Blank 28-lined Pleading Paper (Click here, then click ‘Open’)

Web link Basics of Court Forms - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Fee Waivers - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Service of Process - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Discovery - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Going to Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Court Interpreters - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link How Courts Work - Virtual Self-Help Law Center (Contra Costa County)

Web link Understanding Court Processes - Virtual Self-Help Law Center (Contra Costa County)

Web link Researching the Law - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Resolving Your Dispute Out of Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Is This Book for You? (Win Your Lawsuit: Win Your Lawsuit,  Chapter 1.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Do You Have a Good Case? Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 2.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Can’t We Settle Somehow? Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 3.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link You’re Thinking of Filing a Lawsuit? Presentation on what you need to know before you file a lawsuit. San Mateo County Superior Court

 

Starting a Lawsuit

Web link Time Period for Starting (Filing) Lawsuits -Virtual Self-Help Law Center Contra Costa County 

Web link File your Lawsuit in the Right Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Cases for $10,000 or Less - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Cases for $25,000 or Less - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Cases for over $25,000 - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Suing Someone - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Filing a Lawsuit Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Request a Default Judgment from the Clerk Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Request a Default Judgment from the Court Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Deciding Where and Whom to Sue: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 4.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Filing the Complaint: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 5.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Filing the Papers: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 6.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Serving the Papers on the Defendants: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 7. Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link If Defendant Doesn't Respond: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 9.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link  I Have a Case in Court, Now What?: Presentation on what you need to know once you have a case in court.  San Mateo County Superior Court

Web link Lawsuits from the Defendant's Point of View: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 8.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

 

I Have Been Sued

Web link Being Sued - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

PDF Document Responding to a Breach of Contract Lawsuit Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Law Library

Web link Responding to a Lawsuit Research Guide - Sacramento County Law Library 

Web link Copying, Assembling and Serving an Answer Step-by-Step Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Legal Defenses to a Lawsuit Research Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Set Aside a Default Judgment Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

 

Filing and Opposing Motions

Web link Motions in a Court Case - Virtual Self-Help Law Center (Contra Costa County)

Web link Writing and Scheduling Motions Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Law Library

Web link The Opposition Gets Nasty: Summary Judgment and Other Motions: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 11.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

 

Before the Trial

Web link Case Management Conference - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Case Management Statement Step-by-Step Guide - Sacramento County Law Library

Web link Preparing the Evidence (Discovery) - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

PDF Document Getting Evidence for Court Pamphlet - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Resolving your Dispute Out of Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Prepare for Trial - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Going to Court - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Business Records Subpoena Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Motion for Relief from Admissions Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Motion to Compel Discovery Responses Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Discovery: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 10.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Moving Your Case to Arbitration and Trial: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 12.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Preparing for Trial or Arbitration: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter13.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Nolo's Deposition Handbook.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

 

Trial

Web link What will Happen at the Trial - California Courts Online Self-Help Center

Web link Motion to Continue Trial Step by Step Guide - Sacramento County Public Law Library

Web link Trial Before a Judge: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 14.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Web link Trial Before a Jury: Win Your Lawsuit, Chapter 15.  Nolo Press. (Click here, then click ‘PDF Full Text’)

Read more...

Propositions 2001

Written by Published in Legal Research
2009 | 2008 |2007 |2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

No propositions or initiatives qualified this year.
Read more...

Propositions 2007

Written by Published in Legal Research
2009 | 2008 |2007 |2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

No propositions or initiatives qualified this year.
Read more...

Propositions 2006

Written by Published in Legal Research
2009 | 2008 |2007 |2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

FEBRUARY 5, 2008 | JUNE 3, 2008 | NOVEMBER 4, 2008

February 5, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

91 pdf

Transportation Funds
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Art. XIX § 6; Art. XIXA § 1; Art. XIXB § 1; Art. XIXC § 1.

Prohibits certain motor vehicle fuel sales and use taxes, that are earmarked for the Transportation Investment Fund, from being retained in the General Fund. Currently such taxes may be retained if Governor issues a proclamation, a special statute is enacted by a 2/3 vote of the Legislature, repayment occurs within three years, and certain other conditions are met. Requires repayment by 6/30/17 of such vehicle fuel taxes retained in General Fund from 7/1/03 to 6/30/08. Currently repayment is generally required by 6/30/16. Changes how and when General Fund borrowing of certain transportation funds is allowed.

92 pdf

Community Colleges. Funding. Governance. Fees
Constitutional Amendment and Statute

No

Art. VII § 4; Art. IX §§ 17, 18, 19; Art. XVI § 8; Educ. §§ 41210 etc. (too many to list here).

Establishes in state constitution a system of independent public community college districts and Board of Governors. Generally, requires minimum levels of state funding for school districts and community college districts to be calculated separately, using different criteria and separately appropriated. Allocates 10.46 percent of current Proposition 98 school funding maintenance factor to community colleges. Sets community college fees at $15/unit per semester; limits future fee increases. Provides formula for allocation by Legislature to community college districts that would not otherwise receive general fund revenues through community college apportionment.

93 pdf

Limits on Legislators' Terms in Office
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Art. IV § 2; Art. XX § 7.

Reduces the total amount of time a person may serve in the state legislature from 14 years to 12 years. Allows a person to serve a total of 12 years either in the Assembly, the Senate, or a combination of both. Provides a transition period to allow current members to serve a total of 12 consecutive years in the house in which they are currently serving, regardless of any prior service in another house.

94 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Pechanga

Yes

Gov. § 12012.49.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Pechanga Band of Luiseño Mission Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 5,500 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited into General Fund; tribe would make $42,500,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

95 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Morongo

Yes

Gov. § 12012.48.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Morongo Band of Mission Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 5,500 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited into General Fund; amendment requires tribe to make $36,700,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from additional slot machines to the state.

96 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Sycuan

Yes

Gov. § 12012.51.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between state and Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation; amendment would permit tribe to operate 3,000 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Specifies where revenue paid by tribe pursuant to amendment deposited; amendment requires tribe to make $20,000,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

97 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Agua Caliente

Yes

Gov. § 12012.46.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 3,000 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited in General Fund; tribe would make $23,400,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

June 3, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

98 pdf

Eminent Domain. Limits on Government Authority
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Const. Art. I, §19
  • Bars state and local governments from taking or damaging private property for private uses.
  • Prohibits rent control and similar measures.
  • Prohibits deference to government in takings cases.
  • Defines “just compensation.”
  • Requires an award of attorneys fees and costs if a property owner obtains a judgment for more than the amount offered by the government.
  • Requires government to offer to original owner of condemned property the right to repurchase property at condemned price when property is put to substantially different use than was publicly stated.

99 pdf

Eminent Domain. Limits on Government Acquisition of Owner-Occupied Residence
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

Yes

Const. Art. I, §19
  • Bars state and local governments from using eminent domain to acquire an owner-occupied residence, as defined, for conveyance to a private person or business entity.
  • Creates exceptions for public work or improvement, public health and safety protection, and crime prevention.

November 4, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

1A pdf

Safe, Reliable High-Speed Passenger Train Bond Act

Yes

Sts & Hwys. §§ 2704-2704.21
  • Provides long-distance commuters with a safe, convenient, affordable, and reliable alternative to driving and high gas prices.
  • Reduces traffic congestion on the state’s highways and at the state’s airports.
  • Reduces California’s dependence on foreign oil.
  • Reduces air pollution and global warming greenhouse gases.
  • Establishes a clean, efficient 220 MPH transportation system.
  • Improves existing passenger rail lines serving the state’s major population centers.
  • Provides for California’s growing population.
  • Provides for a bond issue of $9.95 billion to establish high-speed train service linking Southern California counties, the Sacramento/San Joaquin Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Provides that at least 90% of these bond funds shall be spent for specific construction projects, with private and public matching funds required, including, but not limited to, federal funds, funds from revenue bonds, and local funds.
  • Requires that use of all bond funds is subject to independent audits.
  • Appropriates money from the General Fund to pay bond principal and interest.

2 pdf

Standards for Confining Farm Animals .
Initiative Statute

Yes

H & S §§  25990 – 25994
  • Requires that calves raised for veal, egg-laying hens and pregnant pigs be confined only in ways that allow these animals to lie down, stand up, fully extend their limbs and turn around freely.
  • Exceptions made for transportation, rodeos, fairs, 4-H programs, lawful slaughter, research and veterinary purposes.
  • Provides misdemeanor penalties, including a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or imprisonment in jail for up to 180 days.

3 pdf

Children's Hospital Bond Act. Grant Program
Initiative Statute

Yes

H & S §§ 1179.50-1179.72
  • Authorizes $980,000,000 in bonds, to be repaid from state’s General Fund, to fund the construction, expansion, remodeling, renovation, furnishing and equipping of children’s hospitals.
  • Designates that 80 percent of bond proceeds go to hospitals that focus on children with illnesses such as leukemia, cancer, heart defects, diabetes, sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis.
  • Requires that qualifying children’s hospitals provide comprehensive services to a high volume of children eligible for governmental programs and meet other requirements.
  • Designates that 20 percent of bond proceeds go to University of California general acute care hospitals.

4 pdf

Waiting Period and Parental Notification Before Termination of Minor's Pregnancy.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Const. Art. I § 32
  • Changes California Constitution to prohibit abortion for unemancipated minor until 48 hours after physician notifies minor’s parent or legal guardian.
  • Permits notification to certain adult relatives if doctor reports parent to law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
  • Provides notification exceptions for medical emergency or parental waiver.
  • Permits courts to waive notice based on clear and convincing evidence of minor’s maturity or best interests.
  • Mandates reporting requirements, including reports from physicians regarding abortions on minors.
  • Authorizes damages against physicians for violation.
  • Requires minor’s consent to abortion, with exceptions.

5 pdf

Nonviolent Drug Offenses. Sentencing, Parole and Rehabilitation
Initiative Statute

No

Pen. §§ 1210.1-1210.05, 5050, 6026.01-6026.02, 6032, 6050.1, 6126.01 & multiple sections of Other codes
  • Allocates $460,000,000 annually to improve and expand treatment programs for persons convicted of drug and other offenses.
  • Limits court authority to incarcerate offenders who commit certain drug crimes, break drug treatment rules or violate parole.
  • Substantially shortens parole for certain drug offenses; increases parole for serious and violent felonies.
  • Divides Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation authority between two Secretaries, one with six year fixed term and one serving at pleasure of Governor. Provides five year fixed terms for deputy secretaries.
  • Creates 19 member board to direct parole and rehabilitation policy.

6 pdf

Police and Law Enforcement Funding. Criminal Penalties and Laws
Initiative Statute

No

Pen  §§  32, 665, 136.1, 1464, 14027, 14260, 11166.6, & various sections of Evid, Gov., Veh, & W&I Codes.
  • Requires minimum of $965,000,000 each year to be allocated from state General Fund for police, sheriffs, district attorneys, adult probation, jails and juvenile probation facilities. Some of this funding will increase in following years according to California Consumer Price Index.
  • Makes approximately 30 revisions to California criminal law, many of which cover gang-related offenses. Revisions create multiple new crimes and additional penalties, some with the potential for new life sentences.
  • Increases penalties for violating a gang-related injunction and for felons carrying guns under certain conditions.

7 pdf

Renewable Energy Generation
Initiative Statute

No

Pub. Util. §§  387, 399.11-399.15, 399.25, 1001, Pub. Res. § § 25107-25110, 25137, 25502, 25517, 25522, 25531, 25540, 25541 & multiple other sections of the Pub. Res. Code.
  • Requires utilities, including government-owned utilities, to generate 20% of their power from renewable energy by 2010, a standard currently applicable only to private electrical corporations.
  • Raises requirement for utilities to 40% by 2020 and 50% by 2025.
  • Imposes penalties, subject to waiver, for noncompliance.
  • Transfers some jurisdiction of regulatory matters from Public Utilities Commission to Energy Commission.
  • Fast-tracks approval for new renewable energy plants.
  • Requires utilities to sign longer contracts (20 year minimum) to procure renewable energy.
  • Creates account to purchase rights-of-way and facilities for the transmission of renewable energy.

8 pdf

Eliminates Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry
Initiative Constitutional Amendment
Yes
Const. Art. I, § 7.5
  • Changes the California Constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry in California.
  • Provides that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.
9 pdf Criminal Justice System. Victim's Rights. Parole.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment and Statute
Yes
Const. Art. I § 28, Pen. §§679.026, 3041.5, 3043-3044.
  • Requires notification to victim and opportunity for input during phases of criminal justice process, including bail, pleas, sentencing and parole.
  • Establishes victim safety as consideration in determining bail or release on parole.
  • Increases the number of people permitted to attend and testify on behalf of victims at parole hearings.
  • Reduces the number of parole hearings to which prisoners are entitled.
  • Requires that victims receive written notification of their constitutional rights.
  • Establishes timelines and procedures concerning parole revocation hearings.
10 pdf Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Renewable Energy Bonds.
Initiative Statute
No
Pub. Res. §§ 26410-26437
  • Provides $3.425 billion to help consumers and others purchase certain high fuel economy or alternative fuel vehicles, including natural gas vehicles, and to fund research into alternative fuel technology.
  • Provides $1.25 billion for research, development and production of renewable energy technology, primarily solar energy with additional funding for other forms of renewable energy; incentives for purchasing solar and renewable energy technology.
  • Provides grants to cities for renewable energy projects and to colleges for training in renewable and energy efficiency technologies.
  • Total funding provided is $5 billion from general obligation bonds.
11 pdf Redistricting.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment and Statute
Yes
Const. Art. XXI title change & §§ 3.2-.3.4
  • Changes authority for establishing Assembly, Senate, and Board of Equalization district boundaries from elected representatives to 14 member commission.
  • Requires government auditors to select 60 registered voters from applicant pool. Permits legislative leaders to reduce pool, then the auditors pick eight commission members by lottery, and those commissioners pick six additional members for 14 total.
  • Requires commission of five Democrats, five Republicans and four of neither party. Commission shall hire lawyers and consultants as needed.
  • For approval, district boundaries need votes from three Democratic commissioners, three Republican commissioners and three commissioners from neither party.
12 pdf Veterans' Bond Act of 2008 Yes
Mil. & Vet. §§ 988.400 – 988.414
  • This act provides for a bond issue of nine hundred million dollars ($900,000,000) to provide loans to California veterans to purchase farms and homes.
  • Appropriates money from the state General Fund to pay off the bonds, if loan payments from participating veterans are insufficient for that purpose.
Read more...

Propositions 2008

Written by Published in Legal Research
2009 | 2008 |2007 |2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

FEBRUARY 5, 2008 | JUNE 3, 2008 | NOVEMBER 4, 2008

February 5, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

91 pdf

Transportation Funds
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Art. XIX § 6; Art. XIXA § 1; Art. XIXB § 1; Art. XIXC § 1.

Prohibits certain motor vehicle fuel sales and use taxes, that are earmarked for the Transportation Investment Fund, from being retained in the General Fund. Currently such taxes may be retained if Governor issues a proclamation, a special statute is enacted by a 2/3 vote of the Legislature, repayment occurs within three years, and certain other conditions are met. Requires repayment by 6/30/17 of such vehicle fuel taxes retained in General Fund from 7/1/03 to 6/30/08. Currently repayment is generally required by 6/30/16. Changes how and when General Fund borrowing of certain transportation funds is allowed.

92 pdf

Community Colleges. Funding. Governance. Fees
Constitutional Amendment and Statute

No

Art. VII § 4; Art. IX §§ 17, 18, 19; Art. XVI § 8; Educ. §§ 41210 etc. (too many to list here).

Establishes in state constitution a system of independent public community college districts and Board of Governors. Generally, requires minimum levels of state funding for school districts and community college districts to be calculated separately, using different criteria and separately appropriated. Allocates 10.46 percent of current Proposition 98 school funding maintenance factor to community colleges. Sets community college fees at $15/unit per semester; limits future fee increases. Provides formula for allocation by Legislature to community college districts that would not otherwise receive general fund revenues through community college apportionment.

93 pdf

Limits on Legislators' Terms in Office
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Art. IV § 2; Art. XX § 7.

Reduces the total amount of time a person may serve in the state legislature from 14 years to 12 years. Allows a person to serve a total of 12 years either in the Assembly, the Senate, or a combination of both. Provides a transition period to allow current members to serve a total of 12 consecutive years in the house in which they are currently serving, regardless of any prior service in another house.

94 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Pechanga

Yes

Gov. § 12012.49.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Pechanga Band of Luiseño Mission Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 5,500 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited into General Fund; tribe would make $42,500,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

95 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Morongo

Yes

Gov. § 12012.48.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Morongo Band of Mission Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 5,500 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited into General Fund; amendment requires tribe to make $36,700,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from additional slot machines to the state.

96 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Sycuan

Yes

Gov. § 12012.51.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between state and Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation; amendment would permit tribe to operate 3,000 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Specifies where revenue paid by tribe pursuant to amendment deposited; amendment requires tribe to make $20,000,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

97 pdf

Referendum on Amendment to Indian Gaming Compact: Agua Caliente

Yes

Gov. § 12012.46.

Ratifies amendment to existing gaming compact between the state and Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians; amendment would permit tribe to operate 3,000 additional slot machines; Omits certain projects from scope of California Environmental Quality Act; amendment provides for Tribal Environmental Impact Report and intergovernmental procedure to address environmental impact; Revenue paid by tribe to be deposited in General Fund; tribe would make $23,400,000 annual payment and pay percentage of revenue generated from the additional slot machines to the state.

June 3, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

98 pdf

Eminent Domain. Limits on Government Authority
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Const. Art. I, §19
  • Bars state and local governments from taking or damaging private property for private uses.
  • Prohibits rent control and similar measures.
  • Prohibits deference to government in takings cases.
  • Defines “just compensation.”
  • Requires an award of attorneys fees and costs if a property owner obtains a judgment for more than the amount offered by the government.
  • Requires government to offer to original owner of condemned property the right to repurchase property at condemned price when property is put to substantially different use than was publicly stated.

99 pdf

Eminent Domain. Limits on Government Acquisition of Owner-Occupied Residence
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

Yes

Const. Art. I, §19
  • Bars state and local governments from using eminent domain to acquire an owner-occupied residence, as defined, for conveyance to a private person or business entity.
  • Creates exceptions for public work or improvement, public health and safety protection, and crime prevention.

November 4, 2008

Voter Information Guide | Voter Results
Proposition and SummaryPassedCitation

1A pdf

Safe, Reliable High-Speed Passenger Train Bond Act

Yes

Sts & Hwys. §§ 2704-2704.21
  • Provides long-distance commuters with a safe, convenient, affordable, and reliable alternative to driving and high gas prices.
  • Reduces traffic congestion on the state’s highways and at the state’s airports.
  • Reduces California’s dependence on foreign oil.
  • Reduces air pollution and global warming greenhouse gases.
  • Establishes a clean, efficient 220 MPH transportation system.
  • Improves existing passenger rail lines serving the state’s major population centers.
  • Provides for California’s growing population.
  • Provides for a bond issue of $9.95 billion to establish high-speed train service linking Southern California counties, the Sacramento/San Joaquin Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Provides that at least 90% of these bond funds shall be spent for specific construction projects, with private and public matching funds required, including, but not limited to, federal funds, funds from revenue bonds, and local funds.
  • Requires that use of all bond funds is subject to independent audits.
  • Appropriates money from the General Fund to pay bond principal and interest.

2 pdf

Standards for Confining Farm Animals .
Initiative Statute

Yes

H & S §§  25990 – 25994
  • Requires that calves raised for veal, egg-laying hens and pregnant pigs be confined only in ways that allow these animals to lie down, stand up, fully extend their limbs and turn around freely.
  • Exceptions made for transportation, rodeos, fairs, 4-H programs, lawful slaughter, research and veterinary purposes.
  • Provides misdemeanor penalties, including a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or imprisonment in jail for up to 180 days.

3 pdf

Children's Hospital Bond Act. Grant Program
Initiative Statute

Yes

H & S §§ 1179.50-1179.72
  • Authorizes $980,000,000 in bonds, to be repaid from state’s General Fund, to fund the construction, expansion, remodeling, renovation, furnishing and equipping of children’s hospitals.
  • Designates that 80 percent of bond proceeds go to hospitals that focus on children with illnesses such as leukemia, cancer, heart defects, diabetes, sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis.
  • Requires that qualifying children’s hospitals provide comprehensive services to a high volume of children eligible for governmental programs and meet other requirements.
  • Designates that 20 percent of bond proceeds go to University of California general acute care hospitals.

4 pdf

Waiting Period and Parental Notification Before Termination of Minor's Pregnancy.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment

No

Const. Art. I § 32
  • Changes California Constitution to prohibit abortion for unemancipated minor until 48 hours after physician notifies minor’s parent or legal guardian.
  • Permits notification to certain adult relatives if doctor reports parent to law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
  • Provides notification exceptions for medical emergency or parental waiver.
  • Permits courts to waive notice based on clear and convincing evidence of minor’s maturity or best interests.
  • Mandates reporting requirements, including reports from physicians regarding abortions on minors.
  • Authorizes damages against physicians for violation.
  • Requires minor’s consent to abortion, with exceptions.

5 pdf

Nonviolent Drug Offenses. Sentencing, Parole and Rehabilitation
Initiative Statute

No

Pen. §§ 1210.1-1210.05, 5050, 6026.01-6026.02, 6032, 6050.1, 6126.01 & multiple sections of Other codes
  • Allocates $460,000,000 annually to improve and expand treatment programs for persons convicted of drug and other offenses.
  • Limits court authority to incarcerate offenders who commit certain drug crimes, break drug treatment rules or violate parole.
  • Substantially shortens parole for certain drug offenses; increases parole for serious and violent felonies.
  • Divides Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation authority between two Secretaries, one with six year fixed term and one serving at pleasure of Governor. Provides five year fixed terms for deputy secretaries.
  • Creates 19 member board to direct parole and rehabilitation policy.

6 pdf

Police and Law Enforcement Funding. Criminal Penalties and Laws
Initiative Statute

No

Pen  §§  32, 665, 136.1, 1464, 14027, 14260, 11166.6, & various sections of Evid, Gov., Veh, & W&I Codes.
  • Requires minimum of $965,000,000 each year to be allocated from state General Fund for police, sheriffs, district attorneys, adult probation, jails and juvenile probation facilities. Some of this funding will increase in following years according to California Consumer Price Index.
  • Makes approximately 30 revisions to California criminal law, many of which cover gang-related offenses. Revisions create multiple new crimes and additional penalties, some with the potential for new life sentences.
  • Increases penalties for violating a gang-related injunction and for felons carrying guns under certain conditions.

7 pdf

Renewable Energy Generation
Initiative Statute

No

Pub. Util. §§  387, 399.11-399.15, 399.25, 1001, Pub. Res. § § 25107-25110, 25137, 25502, 25517, 25522, 25531, 25540, 25541 & multiple other sections of the Pub. Res. Code.
  • Requires utilities, including government-owned utilities, to generate 20% of their power from renewable energy by 2010, a standard currently applicable only to private electrical corporations.
  • Raises requirement for utilities to 40% by 2020 and 50% by 2025.
  • Imposes penalties, subject to waiver, for noncompliance.
  • Transfers some jurisdiction of regulatory matters from Public Utilities Commission to Energy Commission.
  • Fast-tracks approval for new renewable energy plants.
  • Requires utilities to sign longer contracts (20 year minimum) to procure renewable energy.
  • Creates account to purchase rights-of-way and facilities for the transmission of renewable energy.

8 pdf

Eliminates Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry
Initiative Constitutional Amendment
Yes
Const. Art. I, § 7.5
  • Changes the California Constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry in California.
  • Provides that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.
9 pdf Criminal Justice System. Victim's Rights. Parole.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment and Statute
Yes
Const. Art. I § 28, Pen. §§679.026, 3041.5, 3043-3044.
  • Requires notification to victim and opportunity for input during phases of criminal justice process, including bail, pleas, sentencing and parole.
  • Establishes victim safety as consideration in determining bail or release on parole.
  • Increases the number of people permitted to attend and testify on behalf of victims at parole hearings.
  • Reduces the number of parole hearings to which prisoners are entitled.
  • Requires that victims receive written notification of their constitutional rights.
  • Establishes timelines and procedures concerning parole revocation hearings.
10 pdf Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Renewable Energy Bonds.
Initiative Statute
No
Pub. Res. §§ 26410-26437
  • Provides $3.425 billion to help consumers and others purchase certain high fuel economy or alternative fuel vehicles, including natural gas vehicles, and to fund research into alternative fuel technology.
  • Provides $1.25 billion for research, development and production of renewable energy technology, primarily solar energy with additional funding for other forms of renewable energy; incentives for purchasing solar and renewable energy technology.
  • Provides grants to cities for renewable energy projects and to colleges for training in renewable and energy efficiency technologies.
  • Total funding provided is $5 billion from general obligation bonds.
11 pdf Redistricting.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment and Statute
Yes
Const. Art. XXI title change & §§ 3.2-.3.4
  • Changes authority for establishing Assembly, Senate, and Board of Equalization district boundaries from elected representatives to 14 member commission.
  • Requires government auditors to select 60 registered voters from applicant pool. Permits legislative leaders to reduce pool, then the auditors pick eight commission members by lottery, and those commissioners pick six additional members for 14 total.
  • Requires commission of five Democrats, five Republicans and four of neither party. Commission shall hire lawyers and consultants as needed.
  • For approval, district boundaries need votes from three Democratic commissioners, three Republican commissioners and three commissioners from neither party.
12 pdf Veterans' Bond Act of 2008 Yes
Mil. & Vet. §§ 988.400 – 988.414
  • This act provides for a bond issue of nine hundred million dollars ($900,000,000) to provide loans to California veterans to purchase farms and homes.
  • Appropriates money from the state General Fund to pay off the bonds, if loan payments from participating veterans are insufficient for that purpose.
Read more...

Remote Resources

Written by Published in Legal Research

Electronic resources can provide powerful research tools such as keyword searching.

LA Law Library is pleased to offer remote access to valuable databases!

In our continuing efforts to reach those we serve wherever they are, we are excited to offer access to a limited number of resources remotely – whether from your home, office, school, neighborhood library or anywhere else with internet access. Our currently available remote databases are listed below.

EBSCO Legal Information Reference Center (LIRC)

The LIRC database offered by EBSCO allows for remote access to Nolo Press titles.  Nolo Press specializes in resources for people who will be representing themselves in court or who need to address a legal issue without the help of an attorney.

To access LIRC, please click the link below.  When you reach the login page, please use the credentials as provided in this PDF document: CLICK HERE

LexisNexis Digital Library

LA Law Library is also very excited to offer remote access to eBooks through the LexisNexis Digital eBooks platform!  You can now borrow digital copies of Lexis books using your library card without visiting the Library in-person.

To access this service, click the link below and, when you arrive at the sign in page, choose the “Library Card Access” option. Enter your library card number.  You will be able to borrow seven eBooks at a time, for up to seven days.  Renewals are available for eBooks, unless another library card holder has placed a hold on the title.  Books will automatically be removed from your account at the end of the loan period.  For additional information, please review the following PDF document: CLICK HERE

 

RESOURCE
DESCRIPTION

Legal Information Reference Center

Searchable full text database of Nolo Press self-help publications.

Click here to access this database remotely.

LexisNexis Digital Library

Borrow eBook versions of Lexis practice guides, form books, and treatises.

Click here to access this database remotely.

Read more...

Hours / Location

LA Law Library
301 W. First Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-785-2529
Click Here for Directions

Hours:

Monday - Friday:
8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday:
9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Join Our Mailing List

To get more information about upcoming classes and events, please click here to join our mailing list.

Follow Us...Like Us...

Follow the LA Law Library on Instagram to see our latest posts.

Federal Depository

Federal Depository Logo

The LA Law Library is a selective government depository for both the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) and State of California materials.

Accommodation Requests

CLICK HERE to fill out the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form.

© LA Law Library 2022