From Sfchronicle · · 1m 50s
Prop 38: California's Medical Research Bond Sparks Unlikely Alliances
California's Prop 38 ballot measure to fund medical research faces unexpected alliances from both sides as it prepares for the 2028 vote.
In brief
California's Prop 38 ballot measure to fund medical research faces unexpected alliances from both sides as it prepares for the 2028 vote. California voters will decide in November 2028 whether a $8.4 billion bond measure for immunology research passes, drawing support from both major parties and opposition from parks…
Prop 38 ballot measure
A California ballot measure to fund medical research will appear on the 2028 ballot.
Prop 38 funding details
Prop 38 would authorize $8.4 billion in general obligation bonds for immunology and immunotherapy research.
Funding distribution
Half the funds are earmarked for cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's research.
Yes on Prop 38 supporters
California's Republican and Democratic parties both support Prop 38, with Governor Gavin Newsom planning to vote yes.
No on Prop 38 backers
The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, League of Women Voters, and Common Cause California oppose Prop 38.
Parks opposition
Ruth Coleman, former California State Parks director, warns Prop 38 could cut state parks funding in economic downturns.
Bond repayment costs
The measure would cost $500 million to $600 million annually for about 20 years in bond repayment.
Prop 38 revenue requirements
Prop 38 requires funded research to generate revenue, with 10% going to the state.
Opposition concerns
Opponents say Prop 38 is inflexible and lacks transparency, with critics calling it 'naked self-dealing'.
Campaign funding
The Yes campaign has raised over $50 million, while the No campaign has less than $10,000.
Prop 38 vs. SB895
State Sen. Scott Wiener's SB895 bond measure was cut from $23 billion to $7.5 billion and postponed to 2028.
Federal research cuts
Trump froze $600 million in UC research funding, reducing NIH grants from 5,000 to 3,900 in 2025.
The main idea
California voters will decide in November 2028 whether a $8.4 billion bond measure for immunology research passes, drawing support from both major parties and opposition from parks advocates and critics.
