What is the main goal of Proposition 43?

Proposition 43 aims to require a two-thirds voter approval for all local special taxes, making it harder for them to pass.

Who supports and opposes Proposition 43?

Anti-tax advocates support Proposition 43, while local officials, labor unions, and affordable housing advocates oppose it.

California Proposition 43 Would Raise Threshold for Local Special Taxes

The ballot measure aims to require a two-thirds voter approval for local special taxes, a change opposed by local officials who fear it will hinder funding for essential services.

Flat illustration of Ballot box, Tax form, Pillar, Golden poppy, Voting booth, Balance scale

2026-10-09 · Updated 2026-10-09

California voters will consider Proposition 43 in the upcoming election, a measure that would mandate a two-thirds majority vote for the passage of any local special taxes. Currently, citizen-led initiatives for special taxes can pass with a simple majority. Anti-tax advocates, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, support the proposition, arguing it would create a more equitable and difficult process for governments to impose taxes on Californians.

Supporters contend that Proposition 43 would clarify a long-standing ambiguity regarding voter thresholds for special taxes. Following a 2017 state Supreme Court ruling that limited the two-thirds requirement to taxes proposed by local officials, several tax measures have passed with a simple majority. Proposition 43 seeks to apply the higher threshold to all special taxes, regardless of who proposes them.

Opponents, including local government officials, labor unions, and affordable housing advocates, argue that the measure would significantly impede the ability to fund essential services like firefighting, education, and healthcare. They express concern that it could lead to "minority rule," where a smaller portion of the electorate could block taxes needed for public services.

The proposition is a compromise from a more extensive measure that was blocked by the courts. The current version, negotiated with legislative leaders, focuses solely on the vote threshold and does not retroactively affect existing taxes. Despite this narrower scope, some lawmakers remain opposed, viewing it as detrimental policy.

Campaign finance records show significant support for Proposition 43, with substantial contributions from groups like the California Business Roundtable PAC. Opponents have also raised funds, with the Service Employees International Union of California among the major donors. Polling data suggests a divided electorate, with a slight majority indicating opposition in a recent survey.

FAQ

What is the main goal of Proposition 43?: Proposition 43 aims to require a two-thirds voter approval for all local special taxes, making it harder for them to pass.
Who supports and opposes Proposition 43?: Anti-tax advocates support Proposition 43, while local officials, labor unions, and affordable housing advocates oppose it.