California Ballot Initiatives 2010

Written by: the Women's Foundation of California                      

Because many of the propositions on the ballot affect the state budget and the generation of revenue, they will have an effect on balancing the budget. Too often, that’s done through cutting critical safety net programs, which disproportionately affect low-income women and children. Central to the Foundation’s work is a commitment to supporting the health and well-being of low-income women and families, immigrants and communities of color. Our positions reflect that commitment.

VOTE YES on Proposition 19

Marijuana

Allows adults 21 years of age and older to possess, transport and cultivate one ounce of marijuana for personal consumption

This proposition lets local government regulate and tax commercial marijuana-related activities, which will generate much needed revenue for the state. Decriminalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana will reduce the costly incarceration of nonviolent women and men accused of petty drug charges. Allowing law enforcement to focus on violent crime will enhance safety for all.

VOTE NO on Proposition 20

Congressional Redistricting by Commission

Amends the constitution to expand the authority of the Citizens Redistricting Commission so that they can determine the districts for the US House of Representatives

The Citizens Redistricting Commission is a new entity. Currently the Commission is charged with drawing lines for California’s Senate, Assembly and State Board of Equalization districts. Before expanding its authority to draw districts for Congress, the Commission should demonstrate that its existence reduces partisanship and increases accountability.

VOTE YES on Proposition 21

State Parks

Creates a yearly license surcharge of $18 to fund state parks and wildlife programs

This proposition creates a dedicated revenue stream for California’s parks and wildlife. It frees up money from the state’s General Fund that could be reallocated to other critical safety net programs. Surcharged vehicles gain free entrance to state parks.

VOTE NO on Proposition 22

Transportation and Local Government Funds

Prohibits the state from using tax revenues that fund transportation or local government projects and services

This measure amends the constitution and severely restricts the state’s ability to use and borrow from local and state tax revenues to balance the budget. It increases General Fund costs by at least $1 billion and ups the odds that the budget will be balanced through cuts that disproportionately affect low-income women and families.

VOTE NO on Proposition 23

Global Warming Law

Suspends AB 32 until unemployment is below 5.5% for a full year

This measure halts efforts to address climate change. AB 32 encourages innovation in the growing green sector, which offers training opportunities and well-paying jobs for low-income women and men. The current rate of unemployment is 15.3% and economists don’t think it will drop to 5.5% for years to come.

VOTE YES on Proposition 24

Business Taxes

Repeals recent legislation that allows businesses to carry back losses, share tax credits and lower taxable income

Repealing this measure closes a corporate tax loophole. Businesses would be taxed the way they were prior to the 2008 and 2009 changes. California would receive roughly $1.3 billion in revenue to fund schools and other General Fund programs that enhance the well-being of women and families.

VOTE YES on Proposition 25

2/3 Vote to Pass State Budget

Amends the constitution to reduce the vote requirement to pass the budget from 2/3 to a simple majority

This measure aligns California with the 47 other states that pass a budget through a majority vote. It’s one step toward improving governance in California. To ensure timely passage of the budget, a further step would be companion legislation that reduces the 2/3 vote on raising taxes to a simple majority vote.

VOTE NO on Proposition 26

2/3 Vote to Raise Taxes and Fees

Amends the state constitution and requires a 2/3 vote to enact or increase fees

This measure shifts the financial burden of environmental hazards from industry to the state. It reverses the Sinclair decision which allows California to “impose fees on industries whose activities result in health, environmental, or social burdens on society.” It would be almost impossible to raise revenue to ensure Californians are protected from the damage caused by pollution, hazardous waste and other toxins.

VOTE NO on Proposition 27

Redistricting by the Legislature

Amends the constitution to return the redistricting process to the legislature It seems short-sighted to dismantle the Citizens Redistricting Commission before it’s been tested. The selection process for Commission members was rigorous so as to have fair representation from citizens. The Commission needs a chance to fulfill its mandate to advance competitive elections.