Overview

• The Democratic proposal requires a simple majority to get on the November ballot, unlike the two-thirds majority needed for the Republican-backed measure.
• The initiative includes jail time for repeat shoplifters and harsher penalties for selling fentanyl.
• Democrats secured support from the California Retailers Association, which sees the measure as a balanced solution.
• Critics accuse Democrats of political maneuvering to undermine the more stringent Republican initiative.
• If both measures pass, the one with the most votes will take effect, leading to potential voter confusion.