In California elections, you get to be a lawmaker. This guide helps you vote on all seven statewide propositions with confidence.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Nov. 8, 2022, Californians will vote on seven statewide ballot propositions, each a would-be new law that needs voter approval to take effect.
At ABC10, we stand for you, which is why we made the videos below.
There’s no arguing — just clear, concise language to help you understand what a “yes” or “no” vote on each prop would do.
The videos below are meant to give you a basic understanding of each proposed law, empowering you to make an informed choice. If you’re still on the fence, you can find more analysis, pro-con arguments, and the entire text of each prop in the state’s official voter guide.
California Prop 1: Constitutional protection of abortion
Proposition 1 would make access to abortion and contraception a fundamental right in California. It’s the shortest proposition on the ballot.
While abortion is already legal in California, the proposition would give abortion more protection in California by making it part of the state constitution.
California Prop 26 and Prop 27: Legal sports betting
Both Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 would expand legal gambling in California.
To be clear, this isn’t an “either or” situation. People can vote however they want on either one, but there could be court battles if both end up passing. They both focus on changing the constitution to legalize sports betting in California.
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California Prop 28: Spending on arts in public schools
Proposition 28’s goal is to hire more arts and music teachers for California’s public schools.
It sets aside roughly $1 billion for art classes, with most of it going toward hiring new art teachers. That includes music, painting, theater and more. However, Prop 28 has no new taxes, meaning lawmakers will have to find the money to spend on art classes when they make the budget in the future.
California Prop 29: Kidney dialysis clinics — again!
Proposition 29 is the third election in a row where people will be casting a vote regarding dialysis clinics.
The proposition requires a doctor or nurse to be available at each dialysis clinic at least through telehealth. It would also require clinics to disclose ownership information and report infection rates.
California Prop 30: High-earner income tax for electric cars & wildfire spending
Proposition 30 is designed to help pay for California’s transition away from gasoline-powered cars and to reduce wildfire danger.
Passage would result in a new tax on incomes over $2 million. The tax would expire in 20 years or sooner if the state hits its target trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Officials believe the tax would raise between $3.5 to 5 billion.
California Prop 31: Flavored tobacco ban
Proposition 31 is a referendum, or a vote on a bill that lawmakers already passed to ban flavored tobacco.
If the proposition passes, tobacco flavor would be the only flavor legal to sell in California. There would be a $250 penalty per violation of the ban, however there are exceptions for hookah lounges, loose leaf tobacco and “premium” cigars.
A “yes” vote will allow the ban to become law, and a “no” vote rejects the ban.
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You can also drop ABC10 reporter Brandon Rittiman a note at brittiman@abc10.com.
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