California voters face 14 ballot measures in 2026 general election
The November 3 vote includes a $11.25 billion housing bond, tax extensions, and new rules for voting and healthcare.
By Nadia Singh ·
California voters went to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide on 14 statewide propositions. The largest financial measure on the ballot asks for authorization to sell $11.25 billion in bonds. This funding would primarily support affordable housing projects, with $1.25 billion specifically allocated for veteran housing.
Several other measures target the state's fiscal structure. Proposition 2 seeks to expand the existing rainy-day fund, allowing the state to set aside more money for emergencies or economic downturns. Proposition 3 aims to make current tax rates permanent for residents earning more than $371,000 annually. Without this measure, those rates would expire in 2031.
Campaign finance and election procedures are also up for debate. Proposition 4 would allow for public funding of political campaigns. Proposition 5 proposes changes to the recall election process for officials who hold statewide offices. In a separate effort to standardize voting access, Proposition 39 would require voters to present a government-issued ID when casting a ballot in person.
Healthcare and research funding occupy several lines on the ballot. Proposition 38 authorizes $8.4 billion in general obligation bonds to support immunology and immunotherapy research at California universities and research institutes. Proposition 40 attempts to fund the state's healthcare system by imposing taxes on the ultra-wealthy. Proposition 44 would mandate that non-profit federally qualified health centers spend 90% of their revenue on expenses that advance their mission.
Remaining measures address housing, taxes, and environmental review. Proposition 37 would create a loan program to assist Californians in purchasing newly constructed homes. Proposition 41 requires audits of special tax programs approved by voters. Proposition 42 prohibits new state personal property taxes and certain retroactive state taxes. Proposition 43 raises the threshold for passing a special tax from a simple majority to a two-thirds majority vote. Proposition 45 sets deadlines to speed up the review process under the California Environmental Quality Act.
