My Take on Head-Scratching California Ballot Measures

Voting: A Guide to the 10 California Propositions

Introduction

Voting early is a mistake, I figure. Take all the time you’re allowed. Something could happen right before the election to change your vote.

The Puzzling Propositions

Many of the 10 state propositions are head-scratchers. Some shouldn’t even be on the ballot. Others are worthy of support.

Proposition 2: School Bond Issue

A $10-billion bond issue to repair, modernize, and build facilities at K-12 schools and community colleges.

Yes. Although the 35-year payoff period is too long — eating up billions in interest — the need is real. And borrowing is the only way these projects will be funded.

Proposition 3: Marriage Equality

Deletes obsolete language in the California Constitution that states marriage can only be between a man and a woman.

A no-brainer. Yes.

Proposition 4: Water and Wildfire Bond

A $10-billion bond for water storage, cleansing polluted water, wildfire prevention, and various climate-related projects.

Yes — for the same reason as the school bond. This 40-year payoff is excessively long, but bonds are the only practical way to pay for these worthy projects.

Proposition 5: Affordable Housing and Public Infrastructure

Reduces from two-thirds to 55% the vote required to pass local bonds for affordable housing and public infrastructure such as roads. Local school bonds already need just 55%.

Yes. One-third of the electorate shouldn’t be allowed to make decisions for the other two-thirds.

The Rest of the Propositions

The above measures were placed on the ballot by the Legislature.

• Proposition 6: Inmate Work: Forbids prisons from forcing inmates to work. They still could work voluntarily and potentially have their sentences reduced.
• Proposition 32: Minimum Wage: Raises the state’s current $16 minimum wage to $18 in January with annual increases for inflation.
• Proposition 33: Rent Control: Prevents the state from limiting local government’s expansion of rent control.
• Proposition 34: Prescription Drug Discount: Requires healthcare providers to spend 98% of their federal prescription drug discount revenue on patients.
• Proposition 35: Healthcare Tax: Makes permanent an existing tax on managed healthcare plans and boosts provider reimbursement rates for treating low-income Medi-Cal patients.
• Proposition 36: Punishment for Repeat Offenders: Increases punishment for repeated theft and hard drug offenses, including deadly fentanyl, and requires treatment for repetitive criminal addicts.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve broken down the 10 California propositions, providing a clear and concise guide for voters. From the bond issues to the social justice measures, we’ve tried to help readers make informed decisions at the polls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the purpose of Proposition 2?
  A: A $10-billion bond issue to repair, modernize, and build facilities at K-12 schools and community colleges.
• Q: What is the difference between Proposition 3 and Proposition 4?
  A: Both are bond issues, but Proposition 4 is for water and wildfire projects, while Proposition 3 is for school facilities.
• Q: Is Proposition 32 a good idea?
  A: No, California’s minimum wage is already among the nation’s highest, and there’s an annual inflation adjustment.
• Q: What is the main issue with Proposition 35?
  A: It’s too complex and deals with provider reimbursement rates, which is better handled by the Legislature.