California’s Environmental Props and Measures for November 6th 2018
The time to vote is almost here and we wanted to take this opportunity to break down California’s propositions and measures on the ballot that affect the environment.
Propositions
Proposition 3, Water Infrastructure and Watershed Conservation Bond Initiative (2018) (Source: Ballotpedia.org)
A “yes” vote supports this measure to authorize $8.877 billion in general obligation bonds for water infrastructure, groundwater supplies and storage, surface water storage and dam repairs, watershed and fisheries improvements, and habitat protection and restoration.
A “no” vote opposes this.
Position: The California League of Conservation Voters (CLCV) has opted not to take a position on this proposition. Here’s what they have to say:
CLCV weighed the pros and cons of Prop 3 heavily, but we ultimately have no strong recommendation to support or oppose this initiative. There are some very good elements of Prop 3 that we support, not the least of which is substantial funding for low-income communities in dire need of safe drinking water. But these benefits come with significant trade-offs. If Prop 3 passes, it would permanently take funds from California’s landmark program to combat climate change and spend them on water storage projects that are potentially less environmental-friendly. We are also concerned that some of these funds would be allocated to federal and state water agencies without appropriate oversight and accountability. Do the benefits outweigh the costs? We encourage environmental voters to decide based on their own priorities.
Proposition 6, Voter Approval for Future Gas and Vehicle Taxes and 2017 Tax Repeal Initiative (2018) (Source: Ballotpedia.org)
A “yes” vote supports this initiative to:
- repeal fuel tax increases and vehicle fees that were enacted in 2017, including the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (RRAA) and
- require voter approval (via ballot propositions) for the California State Legislature to impose, increase, or extend fuel taxes or vehicle fees in the future.
A “no” vote opposes this.
Position: The California League of Conservation Voters recommends voting NO on Prop 6 as being the better decision with regard to the environment.
Regional Measures
LA County Measure W, Funding for Water Projects (Source: Ecovote.org)
Measure W would provide $300 million a year to update LA’s aging water system. The stormwater capture and storage projects funded by the measure will result in collecting enough water for 3 million people annually by 2050 –making LA more ready and resilient for droughts.
Position: The California League of Conservation Voters (CLCV) recommends voting YES on Measure W as being the better decision with regard to the environment.
Act on Climate
Next Tuesday, November 6th, we can all do our part by showing up to the polls and voting!
