California Proposition 140

Definition

California Proposition 140 was a ballot initiative passed in 1990 that established term limits for state legislators in California. This measure aimed to promote fresh ideas and reduce the influence of career politicians by limiting Assembly members to three two-year terms and state Senators to two four-year terms. The passage of Proposition 140 has had a significant impact on the state's legislative professionalism and the overall dynamics of governance in California.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Proposition 140 was passed with approximately 52% of voters in favor, reflecting a desire among Californians for political change and accountability.
2. The measure led to a significant turnover in the California legislature, impacting both the continuity of policy-making and the experience level of legislators.
3. Post-Proposition 140, the number of former legislators who became lobbyists increased, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of money in politics.
4. California's term limits were among the most stringent in the nation at the time of Proposition 140's passage, influencing other states to consider similar measures.
5. In 2012, voters approved Proposition 28, which modified the term limits established by Proposition 140, allowing legislators to serve a total of 12 years in either chamber rather than being limited by the number of terms.

Review Questions

• How did California Proposition 140 change the dynamics of the state's legislature?
  • California Proposition 140 significantly altered the dynamics of the state's legislature by instituting term limits for elected officials. With Assembly members limited to three two-year terms and Senators to two four-year terms, this led to increased turnover among legislators. As a result, new representatives frequently entered the legislature, which brought fresh perspectives but also decreased institutional knowledge and legislative continuity, affecting long-term policymaking.
• Evaluate the impact of California Proposition 140 on legislative professionalism within the state government.
  • The impact of California Proposition 140 on legislative professionalism was profound. With term limits restricting how long legislators could serve, many experienced politicians left office sooner than they might have otherwise. This resulted in a less experienced legislative body, as new members often lacked the institutional knowledge necessary for effective governance. Additionally, it created challenges in building relationships with lobbyists and stakeholders, which are critical for successful legislation and governance.
• Analyze the long-term implications of term limits established by California Proposition 140 on governance and policy-making in California.
  • The long-term implications of term limits established by California Proposition 140 on governance and policy-making in California are complex. While intended to promote fresh ideas and reduce entrenched political power, term limits have sometimes resulted in a lack of continuity and expertise among legislators. As new members frequently cycle in and out of office, there is often less focus on long-term solutions to pressing issues. Moreover, increased reliance on lobbyists and special interest groups has emerged as former lawmakers transitioned into lobbying roles, potentially undermining accountability and complicating policymaking processes.

Related terms

Term Limits: Regulations that restrict the number of terms an elected official can serve in a particular office, intended to prevent the entrenchment of political power.

Legislative Professionalism: The extent to which legislative bodies are comprised of full-time, career politicians with professional staff, emphasizing expertise and stability in governance.

Ballot Initiative: A process by which citizens can propose legislation or constitutional amendments for a vote, allowing direct participation in the legislative process.