Court decision safeguards crucial funding and upholds voter power against corporate influence
This morning, the California Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision ruling the “Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act” initiative cannot be included on the November 2024 ballot.
Working Partnerships USA Executive Director, Maria Noel Fernandez, emphasizes, “In striking down the unconstitutional Taxpayer Deception Act, the California Supreme Court has boldly confronted corporate influence and defended our communities. This victory not only preserves billions in critical funding for schools, reproductive healthcare, and paid family leave but also underscores the power of voters in our state. We know that the same corporate interests aligned on this measure are also moving to roll back other wins — including life-changing criminal justice reform and critical environmental and health regulations. We stand alongside our diverse local coalition of elected representatives, community and labor leaders, workers and residents of Santa Clara County, as well as our legislative champions and regional partners, ready to protect our progress and defend against any future assaults on our safety and well-being, and democratic principles.”
The court’s decision was based on recognizing that the “Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act” initiative posed a serious threat to our community’s ability to fund essential services without unnecessary hurdles. By requiring voter approval for tax increases already approved by elected officials, this measure would have tied the hands of local leaders in responding to our community’s needs promptly. The court rightly saw this as a major overhaul (a revision) of our state’s governance structure rather than a simple tweak (an amendment). They emphasized the importance of following the strict procedures outlined in Article XVIII of the California Constitution for making such profound changes. This ensures that any proposals with significant implications for governance undergo thorough scrutiny and respect the democratic processes designed to protect the interests of all Californians.
This is a huge victory against a handful of big real estate developers and corporations who want to illegally change our Constitution and shift taxes to working people so they can continue to profit and enrich themselves. We’re grateful for our fierce coalition of community and labor leaders, local city and county representatives and residents who have been advocating against this deceptive and unconstitutional measure alongside us.
