California Proposition 43 seeks two-thirds vote for local special taxes

California voters are considering Proposition 43, a statewide ballot measure that would change the approval threshold for local special taxes. Currently, citizen-led tax initiatives require only a simple majority to pass. If approved, Proposition 43 would raise that requirement to a two-thirds supermajority for all local special taxes, regardless of how they reach the ballot.

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, which placed the measure on the ballot, argues the change is necessary to close a judicial loophole and restore constitutional protections. Conversely, opponents, including the California Professional Firefighters union, argue that a two-thirds requirement would make it more difficult to pass essential safety and local service measures.