Short answer
In California, an initiative lets voters propose a new statute or constitutional amendment for a ballot vote. A referendum lets voters decide whether to keep or reject a law the legislature already enacted. Other US states may use these terms or procedures differently, so the state jurisdiction matters. 1 2
Both put a law question to voters, but one proposes change and the other challenges an enacted law.
On this page
At a glance
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| Question | Initiative | Referendum |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Proposed measure from petitioners | Legislature-enacted law being challenged |
| Voter question | Should this proposed change take effect? | Should this enacted law be kept? |
| California example | Proposed tax statute | Vote on a recent state law |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2
What each thing is
Initiative. In the California model, a voter-proposed measure placed on the ballot after a qualifying petition process. 1
Referendum. In the California model, a voter-triggered vote on whether to keep or reject a law already adopted by the legislature. 2
Key differences
Both routes involve petition signatures and ballot qualification, but their targets differ. An initiative can write new law if approved; a referendum can prevent or undo the effectiveness of the challenged law under California rules. 1 2
How to tell them apart
Read the state ballot guide and legal basis. If petitioners authored the measure, it is an initiative in the California model. If the ballot asks voters to keep or reject an already enacted statute, it is a referendum. 1 2
Where they overlap
Both are forms of direct democracy and can appear on a statewide ballot. Both are sometimes loosely called propositions or ballot measures. 1 2
Edge cases
“Referendum” can have broader meanings in other jurisdictions, including legislature-referred questions. Some states do not allow initiatives at all. California time limits and signature requirements are specific and can change; check current official instructions before acting. 1 2
Why the distinction exists
The terms distinguish popular lawmaking from a public veto of a legislature action, which helps voters understand what a Yes or No vote will do. 1 2
Common misconceptions
Every proposition is not an initiative. A California referendum does not start as a brand-new citizen-written statute. 1 2
Examples
Californians petition to put a proposed law on the ballot: initiative. They petition to ask voters to reject a recently enacted state law: referendum. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- California Secretary of State — How to Qualify an Initiative. Initiative process.
- California Secretary of State — About Ballot Measures. Initiative and referendum.