California Voters Decide Key Propositions and Measures

In the recent California elections, several propositions and measures were decided, reflecting ongoing debates on social and economic issues. Proposition 33, which sought to repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act to expand rent control, was rejected by voters. Conversely, Proposition 35, which introduced a permanent tax on health insurance providers to increase Medi-Cal reimbursement rates, was approved. Proposition 36, which aimed at strengthening penalties for repeated shoplifting and drug-related crimes, passed despite criticism for potentially increasing costs and disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. Additionally, Sacramento County's Measure O, a $415 million bond for fire district upgrades, showed strong support in early results, while Fresno Unified's Measure H for school improvements and Elverta's Measure J for school infrastructure were on the ballot.