As California voters prepare for the statewide election on November 5, 2024, it’s important to understand the propositions on the ballot. Below are simplified summaries of each measure to help you make an informed decision.
Proposition 2: Bonds for Public School and College Facilities – Vote NO
This measure allows the state to borrow $10 billion to repair and upgrade K-12 schools, charter schools, community colleges, and career education programs. The money would be used to improve health and safety in classrooms and other facilities. The state would pay about $500 million annually for 35 years to cover the cost.
Supporters: Teachers, School Nurses, Community Colleges.
Opponents: Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.
Proposition 3: Right to Marriage – Vote YES
This amendment would update the California Constitution to ensure that marriage is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of gender or race. It removes old language that limits marriage to being between a man and a woman.
Supporters: Equality groups, Religious organizations.
Opponents: Conservative family organizations.
Proposition 4: Bonds for Safe Water, Wildfire Prevention, and Climate Protection – Vote NO
Proposition 4 authorizes $10 billion in bonds to fund projects for safe drinking water, wildfire prevention, and protecting communities from climate risks. The state would repay about $400 million a year for 40 years.
Supporters: Environmental groups, Firefighters.
Opponents: Taxpayer advocacy groups.
Proposition 5: Bonds for Affordable Housing and Infrastructure – Vote NO
This measure allows local governments to borrow money to fund affordable housing and infrastructure projects with a 55% voter approval. This could lead to higher property taxes as the bonds are repaid.
Supporters: Firefighters, Habitat for Humanity, Women’s advocacy groups.
Opponents: Taxpayer groups, Business associations.
Proposition 6: Ending Involuntary Servitude in Prisons – Vote YES
Proposition 6 changes the state constitution to end the use of involuntary labor for incarcerated individuals as punishment for crimes.
Supporters: Human rights advocates.
Opponents: None reported.
Proposition 32: Raising the Minimum Wage – Vote NO
This measure increases the state’s minimum wage to $17 for large employers immediately and to $18 by 2025. Smaller employers would have until 2026 to meet the new minimum.
Supporters: None submitted.
Opponents: Business and restaurant associations.
Proposition 33: Expanding Rent Control – Vote NO
This measure repeals a 1995 law that limits rent control, allowing local governments to set rent control policies on more types of residential properties.
Supporters: Tenant and healthcare advocates.
Opponents: Business groups, Property owners.
Proposition 34: Restrictions on Prescription Drug Revenue – Vote NO
Proposition 34 requires certain healthcare providers to spend most of their federal prescription drug program revenue on direct patient care. It also lets the state negotiate Medi-Cal drug prices.
Supporters: Patient advocacy groups.
Opponents: Women’s rights groups, Consumer advocates.
Proposition 35: Permanent Medi-Cal Funding – Vote YES
This proposition provides long-term funding for Medi-Cal healthcare services by extending an existing tax on managed healthcare insurance plans.
Supporters: Medical professionals, Planned Parenthood.
Opponents: None submitted.
Proposition 36: Felony Charges for Certain Drug and Theft Crimes – Vote YES
This measure allows felony charges for drug possession and theft under $950 if the person has two previous convictions. It aims to increase penalties for repeat offenders.
Supporters: Law enforcement and crime victim groups.
Opponents: Justice reform advocates.
These summaries provide a brief look at the key measures on the ballot. Be sure to research further before casting your vote. We have made recommendations and these are just our opinions do YOUR OWN RESEARCH.
