California Senate Bill SB1429

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/18

Caption

Sales and use taxes: revenue allocation: public safety services.

Impact

If enacted, SB 1429 will require counties to reduce the funds set aside for reserves, thereby necessitating that a greater proportion of the collected sales tax revenues are utilized directly for funding immediate public safety services. This legislative change aims to ensure that essential services, which rely heavily on these funds, receive timely support rather than allowing counties to accumulate excessive reserves. The bill aligns with the intent of Proposition 172, which is to allocate revenue directly to public safety needs relating to local first responders.

Summary

Senate Bill 1429, introduced by Senator Mendoza, addresses the allocation of sales and use tax revenues designated for public safety services under Proposition 172. This proposition, passed by voters in 1993, established a one-half cent sales and use tax to specifically fund services vital to public safety, including law enforcement and fire protection. SB 1429 seeks to limit the amount of these revenues that counties can reserve for future use to 5% of their total allocation from the previous budget year.

Contention

The introduction of SB 1429 may spark debate among various stakeholders, especially as it involves issues surrounding local government management of funds and budgetary priorities. Critics may argue that limiting reserve funds could undermine a county's financial flexibility to respond to unforeseen public safety needs or emergencies. Proponents however would likely argue that the legislation is necessary to fulfill the original intent of Proposition 172, ensuring that funds are prioritized for public safety rather than being held in reserve indefinitely.