About 18 million Californians voted on 17 propositions, which was the most to ever appear on the state’s ballot. The propositions highlighted wide range of issues.
Let’s have a look on the most influential ones from them and they shall affect the industries and their businesses:
Proposition 51: School Bonds:
School districts update older school buildings and build new ones with a blend of state and local money which is financed via bonds. Proposition authorizes an amount of $9 billion in bonds to modernize old schools and build new. Many old campuses need tech upgrade and safety repairs. Proposition 51 shall provide a better learning environment without raising taxes directly and expand community colleges and K-12 public school so that more students could attend. The education businesses shall benefit a lot.
Proposition 52: Private Hospital Fees for Medi-Cal:
Low-income Californians are provided health care services by Medi-Cal and private hospitals are required to pay so that the cost of Medi-Cal be covered. Proposition 52 shall make that fee permanent and difficult to change which shall guarantee funding for Medi-Cal and stop the state lawmakers from using the funds for something else resulting in betterment of medical facilities.
Proposition 53: Public Vote on Revenue Bonds:
These bonds are frequently utilized for payment of construction projects. The bonds are paid back by the state by using the money attained from completed project. Proposition 53 shall require revenue bonds greater than $2 billion for state project in order to be approved by the voters. This way states shall have voter approval on extensive projects and it will allow voters voice to demand accountability from state. It shall be in advantage of the state as it will discourage spending that adds to state debt.
Proposition 56: Tobacco Tax:
Tax on cigarettes shall be raised by $2 a pack according to Proposition 56 and also raise taxes on other tobacco products along with e-cigarettes containing nicotine. The revenue generated from tax shall provide millions for health care programs along with raising awareness for prevention of smoking. Most importantly, tobacco users shall aid in off-setting tobacco-related healthcare costs which the taxpayers.
Proposition 57: Parole, Sentencing and Court Procedures:
Inmates that had been convicted of non-violent felonies can be granted parole after serving time for the crime under the Proposition 57. They would have the chance to reduce their sentences by exhibiting good behavior and educational activities. This would require the judge of juvenile court to decide whether teenagers from 14-17 could be tried in adult court. This would over all save money as prisons shall be less crowded along with boosting education and rehabilitation of inmates.
Proposition 61: Prescription Drug Costs:
According to this proposition, the amount state can pay for prescription drugs is limited. They cannot pay more than the Department of Veterans Affairs for any medication. The managed care system of California covering 75% of people on Medi-Cal is exempt. This initiative shall prevent price from going up for prescription drugs and save money for healthcare costs.