Editorial

NO TRIP to shopping-cart country is complete without it: a petition-gatherer hunting for signatures for another ballot initiative. But who is backing the proposal, paying the bills and aiming to benefit from its passage?

A bill headed to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk answers that sensible question. The measure, SB1598, written by state Sen. Debra Bowen, a Redondo Beach Democrat, directs that the top-five contributors be listed in large type on all state and local initiatives making the rounds.

Following the money should help a voter decide whether to sign up to put a measure on the ballot. It might also inhibit special interests -- such as labor, business or political groups -- from making an end-run around the lawmaking process in Sacramento. More information is better than less.

Bowen, a candidate for secretary of state in November, pushed through a similar bill last year. It was vetoed by Schwarzenegger, who said he didn't want to hinder the initiative process. He's right to defend access to the ballot, but wrong to oppose an idea that gives puzzled voters a glimpse at the sugar daddies behind a ballot measure.

With this bill, California voters lose none of their historic power to put initiatives on the ballot. What they gain is a clearer look at the political forces at work. Sign SB1598, governor.