Ballot Initiatives
Per CSBA bylaws, the Delegate Assembly may consider adopting positions on statewide ballot measures that directly impact the California TK-12 education system. The four CSBA Policy Pillars are used as a guide by Delegates for establishing positions on statewide ballot initiatives.
In May 2026, CSBA’s Delegate Assembly voted to take the following positions on the following two initiatives which will appear on the November ballot:
Proposition 3 (2026): The California Children's Education and Health Care Protection Act of 2026
Policy Pillar: Secure and Fair Funding 2.0
If approved by voters, this constitutional amendment would make permanent the tax rates on high-income earners established by prior voter-approved measures in 2012 and 2016, which are set to expire in 2031. The tax applies to income above specified thresholds (approximately $360,000 for single filers, $721,000 for joint filers, and $490,000 for heads of household, adjusted annually for inflation). By extending these rates, the measure would preserve an estimated $5 billion to $15 billion annually (in current dollars) in state revenue to support education and healthcare programs.
Much of the revenues generated by Proposition 55 have directly benefited public education and how much money public schools receive annually from the state. If Proposition 3 does not pass, it would have a detrimental impact on Proposition 98 funding for public schools.
CSBA position: Support
Proposition 40 (2026): The 2026 Billionaire Tax Act
Policy Pillar: Secure and Fair Funding 2.0
This proposed constitutional amendment would impose a one-time tax of up to five percent on individuals and trusts with assets exceeding $1 billion. Taxable assets would include financial holdings, business interests, intellectual property, art, and collectibles, while excluding real property and certain retirement assets.
The tax is expected to generate tens of billions of dollars, resulting in a temporary increase in state revenues.
The measure would allocate 90 percent of the revenue generated to healthcare and up to 10 percent of the remaining funds to food assistance or education-related programs. It also prohibits these funds from being used to replace existing funding for those purposes.
Of great concern to CSBA is that the revenues generated under the measure would be exempt from Proposition 98 funding requirements, setting up a precedent whereby future ballot measures may attempt to avoid being subject to Proposition 98 as well.
CSBA position: Oppose