Measure FD is a proposed half-cent sales tax increase on the Nov.

Why is the LAPD union opposing Measure FD?

The LAPD union opposes Measure FD primarily because it is a permanent tax with no end date, which they view as an affordability issue for residents.

LAPD Union to Oppose Firefighters' Sales Tax Measure

The Police Protective League plans to spend millions to fight Measure FD, a half-cent sales tax increase aimed at funding the Fire Department, citing concerns over its permanent nature.

Flat illustration of Ballot box, Fire hydrant, Flashing blue light, Stack of currency, Palm tree, Freeway overpass

2026-10-06 · Updated 2026-10-06

The union representing Los Angeles police officers announced Tuesday it will oppose Measure FD, a proposed half-cent sales tax increase that will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. The measure, championed by the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112, aims to generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually for the Fire Department to fund new stations, hire more personnel, and upgrade equipment.

The Police Protective League stated its intention to allocate several million dollars towards advertising and mailers to campaign against Measure FD. Union President Ricky Mendoza expressed concerns about the tax being a "permanent tax" with no specified end date, emphasizing that while the union supports public safety and hiring firefighters, the perpetual nature of the tax is an "affordability issue."

Firefighters' union president Doug Coates defended Measure FD as a critical public safety decision for the city, urging voters to approve it. He suggested that opposing the measure would put the public at risk, particularly in vulnerable communities. The firefighters' union has also called for a special meeting to potentially authorize an additional $3 million in spending to support the measure, having already invested over $2 million.

Internal polling cited by the firefighters' union indicates Measure FD is positioned to gain majority support, but they acknowledge the need for a robust response to opposition from the police union and potential negative campaigns. The measure requires a simple majority to pass and would increase the city's sales tax to 10.75%, costing an average of $86 per person annually. If approved, the Fire Department, which has a budget nearing $1 billion, could see an additional $345 million each year, potentially enabling the construction of 30 new fire stations and an increase of approximately 1,400 personnel by 2050.

FAQ

What is Measure FD?: Measure FD is a proposed half-cent sales tax increase on the Nov.
Why is the LAPD union opposing Measure FD?: The LAPD union opposes Measure FD primarily because it is a permanent tax with no end date, which they view as an affordability issue for residents.