Taxation: voter approval.
The implementation of ACA29 would significantly alter the process for enacting tax increases in California. By requiring voter approval, the bill would add a layer of public accountability and engagement in decisions that affect taxation, thereby ensuring that citizens have a direct say in fiscal policies that impact them. This change could potentially lead to a reduction in the frequency of new taxes or tax increases, as the requirement for a public vote may deter lawmakers from proposing measures that may not have popular support.
ACA29, introduced by Assembly Member Melendez, seeks to amend Section 3 of Article XIII A of the California Constitution regarding taxation. The current law mandates that any changes to state statutes that would result in an increased tax liability for taxpayers be approved by a two-thirds majority in both legislative houses. This bill proposes an additional requirement that any such changes must also be submitted to voters for approval. If the measure garners a majority of votes from the electorate, it would take effect the day after the election, unless specified otherwise in the act itself.
However, the bill has faced criticism and contention from various sides. Proponents argue that voter involvement is a necessary check on government powers to impose taxes, allowing for greater democratic control over fiscal matters. Yet, opponents warn that such requirements could hinder the state’s ability to respond swiftly to economic needs. Critics assert that subjecting tax-related legislative changes to public vote could create a bottleneck in fiscal policy-making, especially in urgent situations. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the practicality of consistently mobilizing the electorate to participate in votes on tax issues, which may render tax policy vulnerable to fluctuating political sentiments.