Ballot Measure

Other states, including Nevada, are deleting references to slavery in their constitutions and banning forced prison labor. California voters rejected that path when they turned down Prop. 6.

Californians overwhelmingly backed Prop. 36 to lengthen criminal sentences for certain theft and drug offenses, and to direct more people to drug treatment after convictions. Voters’ views changed on public safety after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prop. 34 is about healthcare spending. But it will also likely quash the controversial AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s fight for rent control.

California voters approved Prop. 4's $10 billion in bonds for environmental projects, with about $2 billion going toward protecting drinking water.

The California Constitution permits involuntary servitude as criminal punishment, a practice that advocates liken to slavery. Prop. 6 would repeal that language and allow incarcerated people to prioritize rehabilitation.

Lea esta historia en Español With California’s fund for school repairs on empty, voters approved a $10 billion bond to pay for much-needed upgrades at K-12 schools and community colleges. “This is very good news for all students,” said Adam Clark, superintendent of Mt. Diablo Unified in Contra Costa County. “In our district, we have […]

California voters passed Proposition 3, which enshrines the right to marry into the state’s constitution. While same-sex marriage is already legal, Prop. 3 ensures that LGBTQ+ couples can continue to marry even if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns landmark cases.

California voters are deciding whether or not to repeal a past restriction on what properties could be affected by rent control, and whether the state can dictate local rent control policy.

Supporters of Prop. 36 say it would help the state address homelessness, drug addiction and retail theft. Its critics call it a return to the failed policies of the war on drugs.

The six major newspaper editorial boards unanimously agreed on two ballot measures, but disagreed on the rest. While most followed ideological lines, there were a few exceptions.