Los Angeles County Residents Prioritize Homeless Services, with Mental Illness and Addiction Cited as Top Concerns
Los Angeles County residents see homelessness as a serious problem, with mental illness, addiction, high housing costs, and financial pressures ranking as the top four factors, according to a new USC study. Proponents of Measure A, a proposed one-half percent sales tax to fund homeless services, see this data as proof of supporter. But will it be enough to secure majority support?
A poll conducted by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies and co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times found nearly 50% of respondents favoring the measure, with a three percent margin of error.
Measure A campaign organizers are stepping up their efforts, with a blitz of ads on YouTube and TV screens, as well as phone banking, which they claim increases support. "All polls show voters support Measure A, and more move our way when they hear that it will stop a 25% increase in homelessness and move people from tents into mental health treatment," said Sarah Dusseault, treasurer and advisor to the Measure A campaign.
What would it do?
Measure A would institute a permanent one-half percent sales tax, replacing the current one-quarter percent tax, which is set to expire in 2027. The new tax would generate approximately $1.1 billion in its first year, with 61.25% allocated to L.A. County for homeless services, 35.75% to the L.A. County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency for affordable housing and prevention, and 3% to the L.A. County Development Authority for Local Housing Production.
Arguments: Pro and Con
Supporters of Measure A argue that without the new tax, more than 57,400 people in shelters or permanent housing could be forced back onto the streets, with the San Fernando Valley and Central Los Angeles being the hardest hit.
Opponents, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, argue that the tax is too high, with sales taxes already above 10% in many areas, and that Measure H, the previous sales tax, has not effectively addressed the issue.
Conclusion
Measure A is a vote on the future of homelessness in Los Angeles County, with fresh funding and a new approach to address the problem. While some argue that more needs to be done, proponents claim that this measure would provide a vital lifeline to those struggling with mental illness, addiction, and housing instability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Measure A do?
A: Measure A would institute a permanent one-half percent sales tax to fund homeless services, replacing the current one-quarter percent tax set to expire in 2027.
Q: What are the funds allocated for?
A: 61.25% is allocated to L.A. County for homeless services, 35.75% to the L.A. County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency for affordable housing and prevention, and 3% to the L.A. County Development Authority for Local Housing Production.
Q: What are the goals of Measure A?
A: The measure aims to provide funding for homeless services, including mental health care and addiction treatment, as well as create and preserve affordable housing.
Q: How will the funds be used?
A: The funds will be used to support a range of programs, including emergency shelters, permanent housing, and services for individuals struggling with mental illness and addiction.
