@RexRed,
This is the second time they've done so. The most amazing thing though is California, often described as the very heart of American liberalism, voted conservative on just about every one of the propositions out there. They did approve assisted suicide, but I think voted against every other 'liberal' proposal. I honestly think the pendulum is beginning to swing back from the far left. We can always hope.
Once the traditional marriage is safe, then I am confident the people will get busy to provide a way for gay couples to enjoy the same protections as married people do, and I think that will pass with scarcely more than a murmor.