Yes, the much talked-about billionaire tax is on the ballot this November, but it’s just one of 14 statewide propositions.
If you’re not a policy wonk who knows the ins and outs of state election, tax or environmental law, don’t worry — you’re not alone, and we’re here to help. The CalMatters voter guide has full explainers, videos and even quizzes to help you decide how these measures line up with your values and priorities.
But if you do want the lowdown on who is supporting what, here’s an even shorter, last-minute summary.
Taxes: Props. 2, 3, 40, 41, 42 and 43
If it seems like this year’s ballot has an unusually high number of tax-related ballot propositions, well, you’re right. It does.
Prop. 2 would allow the state to deposit more money into its reserves, otherwise known as the rainy-day fund. The state has strict rules about how much money it can save for lean times in part because of limits imposed during the state’s 1970s taxpayer revolt. But California also has a fairly volatile tax system that rises and falls with the incomes of its highest earners. Democrats want more flexibility to sock money away for downturns. Many Republicans say leftover money should…
