In the preliminary voting results announced on the evening of November 3, California voters have approved seven ballot measures while rejecting another seven. Among the high-profile measures, Proposition 39, which aimed to require voters to present identification at the polls, was not passed. Additionally, Proposition 40, which proposed a one-time wealth tax on billionaires, also failed to gain approval. On a positive note, Proposition 41, aimed at protecting personal property and prohibiting new retroactive taxes, was voted in favor.
Although the final election results will not be confirmed until December 11, the outcomes of the ballot measures are not expected to undergo significant changes. As of 11:29 PM on November 3, the results for the approved measures are as follows:
**Approved Measures:**
**Proposition 1:** Issuance of Bonds for Veteran and Housing Assistance Programs
Submitted by the state legislature, this proposition will allow the issuance of bonds totaling $11.25 billion, of which $1.25 billion is allocated to veterans to assist in purchasing farms, homes, and mobile homes. The remaining $10 billion will be used to construct affordable housing and facilitate home purchase programs. The total cost, including principal and interest, is projected to be about $25 billion.
**Proposition 2:** Increase in the Budget Stabilization Account Cap and the Gann Limit
This measure, also put forth by the state legislature, raises the cap on the state Budget Stabilization Account (BSA), commonly known as the “rainy day fund,” from 10% to 20%. It also expands the range of state debts that the account can be utilized to repay, which includes federal debts related to unemployment insurance.
**Proposition 3:** Permanent Extension of Temporary Taxes to Fund Schools and Healthcare Initiatives
Supported by a coalition of California educators, this citizen initiative seeks to make the previously temporary tax on high-income earners, which was set to expire in 2031, a permanent fixture. It is anticipated to generate between $5 billion and $10 billion annually for educational and healthcare funding.
**Proposition 5:** Repeal of the Law Requiring Elected Successors for Removed State Officials
For 115 years, California has mandated that successors for removed officials be elected. This new measure allows the governor to appoint successors of officials who have been recalled, eliminating the need for another election. Additionally, those removed from office will still be eligible to run for the same position again.
**Proposition 37:** Second Mortgage Loan Plan and Bond Initiative for Homebuyers
Led by the government, this initiative plans to issue $25 billion in bonds to provide second mortgage loans for families living in California who have resided in the state for at least one year, have an income that does not exceed 200% of the area median, and who have made a down payment of at least 3%.
**Proposition 38:** Issuance of Bonds to Fund Immunology Research
This proposition establishes a research entity affiliated with the University of California (UC) and seeks to issue $8.4 billion in bonds, with $4.2 billion specifically earmarked for research into cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The measure also limits administrative costs to 2%, with 10% of the revenue generated from research findings to be directed to the state’s General Fund.
**Proposition 42:** Ban on New Taxes on Retirement Assets and Personal Savings with Restrictions on Retroactive Taxation
This measure prohibits any new taxation on retirement assets, personal property, and savings that are created on or after January 1, 2026. Additionally, it bans any retroactive taxation, providing more financial security for individuals regarding their retirement and savings plans.