Putting local governments on notice about taxation

Abstract

This November, Californians will have the opportunity to vote on numerous state and local ballot measures. The ballot measures include local tax measures seeking approval of various parcel tax hikes, sales tax increases and dozens of other local levies. Under Proposition 13, local special taxes require a two-thirds vote of the local electorate. The Upland decision gave tax-and-spend interests a template on how to slip those tax hikes through on a simple majority vote. A broad coalition of taxpayer organizations, businesses and property owners of all stripes have joined.