Why I support term limits reform enough to work for it

by Brian Leubitz [courtesy of Calitics - Front Page]

I do some work for the Yes on Prop. 93, Committee for Term Limits and Legislative Reform

Term limit reform is crucial to finding progressive solutions to the key problems of our state, ranging from education to universal health care to the environment and infrastructure. The Term Limits and Legislative Reform Act will give our legislators the time and experience they need to govern this state for all Californians, thereby reducing the influence of lobbyists and special interests.

That quote is from not from an incumbent legislator, or from some lobbyist trying to get close to said legislator, but from none other than Rick Jacobs, of the Courage Campaign. Prop 93 has built up an incredible array of support, from Mr. Jacobs to Malcolm Burnstein, Co-Chair of the CDP's Progressive Caucus to all sorts of left and right leaning interest groups.  Why? Because our current term limit system contributes to a dysfunctional state government.

If you've read this site long enough, you'll know that I have a bunch of hangups on the structure of our state government. The 2/3 rule for the budget and taxes, the out of control initiative process, and term limits. Well, guess what, let's use one to fix the other, I suppose. In the end the decision on Prop 93 for me came down to one question: Would our government be more effective after this proposition passes? And to me, this is a no-brainer.  The endless parade of leadership, the constant campaigning for the next job, and the outsized importance of staff and lobbyists all suggest more experienced legislators could be more effective.

Like everything in politics, there's sure to be some warts. But for a variety of reasons the concept of changing to a 12 year limit in one house seems to be the most effective, and likely to pass, reform.  I understand that not everybody agrees with me, but I'm happy to be working to get this measure passed. I welcome your comments, in either direction, and I'll try to address them as quickly as possible. I'm headed down to E-board today, but I'll make every effort to respond ASAP.