June 2010 California Propositions Overview
March 27, 2010
by William P. Meyers

Popular pages:

It is time again to sort through the propositions that will be on the Tuesday, June 8 California primary, with voting beginning a month earlier for Californians who vote by mail.

As usual, the issues are complex. On this page I will simply give summaries of the propositions from the June 8, 2010 California Voter Information Guide. As (or if) I write commentary links to it will be added to the page.

Proposition 13. LIMITS ON PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT. SEISMIC RETROFITTING OF EXISTING BUILDINGS.

Provides that construction to seismically retrofit buildings will not trigger reassessment of property tax value. Sets statewide standard for seismic retrofit improvements that qualify.

California Democracy recommendation: No on 13

Proposition 14. ELECTIONS. INCREASES RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE IN PRIMARY ELECTIONS

Changes the primary election process for congressional, statewide, and legislative races. Allows all voters to choose any candidate regardless of the candidate’s or voter’s political party preference. Ensures that the two candidates receiving the greatest number of votes will appear on the general election ballot regardless of party preference.

California Democracy recommendation: Yes on 14

Proposition 15 CALIFORNIA FAIR ELECTIONS ACT.

Repeals ban on public funding of political campaigns. Creates a voluntary system for candidates for Secretary of State to qualify for a public campaign grant if they agree to limitations on spending and private contributions. Each candidate demonstrating enough public support would receive same amount. Participating candidates would be prohibited from raising or spending money beyond the grant. There would be strict enforcement and accountability. Funded by voluntary contributions and a biennial fee on lobbyists, lobbying firms, and lobbyist employers.

California Democracy recommendation: Yes on 15

Proposition 16 IMPOSES NEW TWO-THIRDS VOTER APPROVAL REQUIREMENT FOR LOCAL PUBLIC ELECTRICITY PROVIDERS.

Requires two-thirds voter approval before local governments provide electricity service to new customers or establish a community choice electricity program using public funds or bonds.

California Democracy recommendation: No on 16

Proposition 17 ALLOWS AUTO INSURANCE COMPANIES TO BASE THEIR PRICES IN PART ON A DRIVER’S HISTORY OF INSURANCE COVERAGE.

Permits companies to reduce or increase cost of insurance depending on whether driver has a history of continuous insurance coverage.

California Democracy recommendation: None Yet