In California a proposition, also known as a ballot measure, is a proposed law, constitutional amendment or a bond measure. Propositions are submitted directly to voters for approval. 

• Initiatives are proposed laws of constitutional amendments placed on the ballot by citizens 

• Referendums are citizen petitions to overturn a law that's passed by the California State legislature. 

• Legislative Measure are constitutional amendments, bonds issued or stature changes that California legislature votes to put on the ballot for voter approval. 

This year there are 14 propositions on the ballot for the mid-term elections