One of the key Ionic reforms of Proposition 13 was the two-thirds vote required to change any sales or parcel tax increases. Below are some of the Bills (and their authors) currently awaiting a vote that are DIRECT ATTACKS against this iconic measure.
Assembly Constitutional Amendment 4 recently introduced by Cecilia Agular-Curry of Yolo County is attempting to lower the vote threshold from the mandated 66% to 55% for bonds, local imposition, extension, or special tax to include affordable housing. Under this bill, the definition of special tax includes sales and parcel tax increases. All voters vote on proposed indebtedness but only property owners pay it.
Senate Constitutional Amendment 6 introduced by Scott Wiener of San Francisco has introduced a Bill that allows for special taxes including sales and parcel tax to be approved by local voters also with a 55% vote (rather than 66%). Of course…. everybody votes, only property owners pay!!!
Senate Constitutional Amendment 3 introduced by Bill Dodd wants to lower the 2/3 vote to 55% for local voters to approve Library Bonds. The 66% threshold for local general obligation Bonds has been in existence for 140 years!!! Again, everybody votes, only property owners pay!!!
Senate Constitutional Amendment #22 Introduced by Ben Allen from Los Angeles wants to lower the 66% percent passing vote requirement to 55%. Again, everybody votes only property owners pay!!!