ballot measures

Some of the state’s wealthiest residents have spent hundreds of millions to defeat Prop. 40, the “billionaire tax.” Supporters say billionaires should pay their “fair share” and help fund social services.

California voters rejected a ballot measure that would have required people to prove their citizenship in order to vote under Proposition 39.

Prop. 45, billed as a pro-housing development measure, may have the unintended consequence of making it easier to build data centers, opponents say.

Proponents say Prop. 2 would allow the state to shore up its reserves for an economic downturn. Critics say it would only allow state leaders to spend more in the future.

A clever solution or a confusing gimmick? Like it or hate it, almost everyone has questions about Proposition 37. Here are a few of the big ones — with the best available answers.

The measure would require two-thirds of voters to approve any local special taxes, instead of the simple majority for citizen-led initiatives. Anti-tax advocates say it should be that hard for governments to tax Californians, but local officials say it could constrain funding for essential services.

Following the failed 2021 recall of Gov. Gavin Newsom, Democrats had the political will and momentum to call for changes to the recall process. What emerged was Proposition 5 on the November ballot, a measure to change the recall process.

Supporters say Measures E and F would give Shasta County residents more control. Opponents question the cost and possible delays in filling elected offices.

California voters haven’t had to make so many decisions about tax policy at the ballot since 1994. Our analysis shows voters tend to reject new taxes.

In June, lawmakers passed a healthcare tax that could increase premiums in order to combat federal Medicaid cuts. A new lawsuit says that tax violates Proposition 35, passed by voters in 2024.

Proposition 40 would levy a one-time tax on billionaires. Some say the initiative opens the door to tax flight and more aggressive taxation. Others say there’s no way to predict the outcome.

Recent polling shows voters narrowly support Prop. 40 — the billionaire tax — as well as two measures designed to kill it. Only one outcome can prevail.