Experienced lawmakers, more informed voters

Term limits for legislatures are a reality in 15 states. For these states, term limits serve as a vehicle to maintain consistent turnover. They ensure a constant supply of fresh faces and new ideas.

In California, term limits have helped make our state Legislature one of the most diverse representative bodies in the country — if not the world. But because California was one of the first states to institute term limits, ours were not well conceived. They impede efficient, effective government.

California's term-limits law — known as Proposition 140 — was passed by 52% of voters in 1990. On Feb. 5, voters will have the opportunity to approve Proposition 93.

The reforms in this initiative would make the state Legislature more efficient and effective — and allow greater accountability for legislators and choice for voters. Ultimately, be it through legislative races or term limits reform, voters make the ultimate choice as to who will represent them.

Proposition 93's reforms are significant because of the broader impact they would have on making the state Legislature more functional.

Currently, 12 of 34 legislative committees are chaired by first-year lawmakers. These committees determine the laws that affect our schools, housing, jobs, public safety, transportation and the environment. Under Proposition 93, legislators could gain experience before chairing a committee. This would benefit the process and, ultimately, the voters.

Proposition 93's reforms would also slow the constant campaign cycle that exists now. Termed-out legislators start campaigning early to win a seat in the other house or another office. Instead, legislators would continue to work for — and campaign to — constituents in their home district.

Overall, voters would become more familiar with their legislators, giving them the opportunity to make more informed choices at the ballot box.

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