As explained on the California Secretary of State website under Ballot Measures, there are two ways a measure can be places on a ballot for people to vote:
- The Legislature has the ability to place constitutional amendments, bond measures, and proposed changes in law on the ballot
- Any California voter can put an initiative or a referendum on the ballot by following initiative procedures and requirements
A statewide ballot measure can be approved by a majority vote of the people. Certain local ballot measures require approval by a 55% or a two-thirds vote of the electorate.
More information can be found by visiting the California Secretary of State website.