When the state needs more tax money, where should more of it come from?

California ballot, November 3, 2026

The official summary says Proposition 3 "Makes permanent existing voter-approved tax rates for individuals earning over $371,000 (adjusted annually for inflation)." A YES vote keeps a rate already in place rather than adding a new tax, so this link shows no direction.

California ballot, November 3, 2026

The official text says a YES vote moves toward: Mostly from the people with the highest incomes or wealth.

The official guide says a YES vote means: "The state would collect a one-time tax from billionaires equal to 5 percent of their wealth."

Proposition 30, 2012 · Passed

Temporary Taxes to Fund Education. Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding. Initiative Constitutional Amendment.

Raised personal income taxes on earnings over $250,000 for seven years and the sales tax by ¼ cent for four years to fund schools, and guaranteed public safety realignment funding.

The official summary says Proposition 30 "Increases taxes on earnings over $250,000 for seven years and sales taxes by ¼ cent for four years, to fund schools."

Proposition 55, 2016 · Passed

Tax Extension to Fund Education and Healthcare. Initiative Constitutional Amendment.

Extended through 2030 the personal income tax increases on earnings over $250,000 that were enacted in 2012, with the revenue going to K–12 schools, community colleges and, in certain years, health care.

The official summary says Proposition 55 "Extends by twelve years the temporary personal income tax increases enacted in 2012 on earnings over $250,000, with revenues allocated to K–12 schools, California Community Colleges, and, in certain years, healthcare." A YES vote extended a rate already in place rather than adding a new tax, so this link shows no direction (owner ruling, 2026-10-03, as for Proposition 3).