The November election is lower than 100 days away, and CalMatters may have the lowdown on every of the poll’s 10 propositions. At present we’re highlighting Proposition 32, which seeks to boost California’s minimal wage, in addition to Prop. 35, which proposes to make sure that a tax on well being care plans is spent on low-income sufferers.
Whereas staff in well being care and quick meals received main legislative victories final 12 months to safe increased hourly wages, Prop. 32 would elevate the present statewide minimal wage of $16 to $18 by January.
Labor teams say the measure will assist staff with the rising value of dwelling, although $18 nonetheless may not be sufficient to eke out a cushty dwelling within the state. However enterprise teams argue that companies additionally battle with inflation and growing labor prices will pressure them to put off workers, lower hours or elevate costs.
Study extra about Prop. 32 from CalMatters Capitol reporter Jeanne Kuang in our one-minute video. And take a quiz from CalMatters information reporter Erica Yee to see the way you would possibly vote.
Prop. 35 would require tax income that the state receives from managed well being care insurance coverage be spent on look after Medi-Cal sufferers. As a result of Medi-Cal, the state-run medical health insurance program for low-income residents, is funded with each state and federal cash, California can use that tax cash to request matching federal {dollars} and assist cut back the funds hole. With the state dealing with a $56 billion shortfall over the following two years, that’s precisely what Gov. Gavin Newsom did this 12 months.
Prop. 35 would as an alternative lock in that cash — which is predicted to be $35 billion over the following 4 years — for Medi-Cal and its companies, together with main and specialty care, emergency companies, household planning, prescribed drugs and extra.
Well being suppliers, who would obtain increased funds, help the measure, in addition to each the California Democratic and Republican events. No formal opposition is registered, however Newsom has raised considerations that limiting how the state can spend that tax income “hamstrings” future lawmakers and their means to steadiness the funds.
To know extra, watch a video explainer on Prop. 35 from CalMatters well being reporter Kristen Hwang. And take the quiz from Erica.
In different election information: Republican U.S. Senate candidate Steve Garvey has agreed to take part in two statewide televised debates with Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, one hosted by ABC 7 Los Angeles and the League of Ladies Voters California, and the opposite by the Nexstar Media Group.
Schiff hasn’t confirmed, however his marketing campaign is “in communication with both debate organizers,” stated spokesperson Marisol Samayoa.
- Garvey, in an announcement: “I look forward to a civil and substantive discussion about our state’s future and how we can work together to solve the challenges we face.”
Garvey and Schiff debated 3 times earlier than the March 5 main, together with Democratic Reps. Barbara Lee and Katie Porter. The previous L.A. Dodgers star trails Schiff considerably within the polls, although he has closed the hole in fundraising.
November election: It’s not too early to get knowledgeable. Sustain with CalMatters protection by signing up for 2024 election emails. Learn up on the ten poll measures and the historical past of propositions in California. And take a look at our Voter Information, together with a FAQ on how you can vote.
