“We The People” of California (specifically, those who voted) have created some new laws and government programs, and rejected others, in the November 2018 election.

The ballot measures that passed will go into effect soon (except for those that specify a different effective date). How soon, you ask? December 19, 2018, to be specific. (Based on a proposition that passed in May, ballot propositions are effective as of the 5th day after the Secretary of State certifies the vote.)

As for those that failed? They remain simply words on a page. That is, unless someone wants to try again in 2020. See the basics for getting a proposition on the ballot at our Guide to the Rules for California Ballot Propositions.

What passed?

Animal rights (Prop 12) – Phased in over the next 4 years, certain farm animals must not be confined in spaces smaller than the following: starting in 2020, calves raised for veal must have at least 43 square feet of space, and egg-laying hens (chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and guinea fowl) must have at least 1 square foot of space; and starting in 2022, breeding pigs must have at least 24 square feet. And meat cannot be sold in CA that does not meet these requirements.

Ambulance workers (Prop 11) – Ambulance providers may now require their ambulance workers to remain on call during breaks.

Daylight savings change (Prop 7) – California is now allowed to move to permanent Daylight Savings Time all year IF Congress allows it (a big IF).

Housing for those with mental illness (Prop 2) – The state agency dealing with mental health is now authorized to use its existing funds on housing for those with mental health issues.

Money for housing and childrens hospitals (Props 1 & 4) – The state can now borrow billions for housing programs, for veterans and others, and for building and maintaining childrens hospitals.

What didn’t pass?

Rent control (Prop 10) – would have allowed cities to enhance rent control rules

Repeal of gas tax (Prop 6) – would have repealed a gas tax passed in 2017

Dialysis cost control (Prop 8) – would have required dialysis clinics to issue refunds for charging above a certain amount

Transfer of tax benefits (Prop 5) – would have allowed seniors and severely disabled persons to transfer their property tax benefits to new property

Money for water infrastructure (Prop 3) – would have borrowed almost $9 billion for water projects

What now?

If you are not pleased with any of these results, you might want to pick up where they left off and try again in 2020. Or propose a completely new law for voters to consider!* Check out our Guide to the Rules for California Ballot Propositions.

See you next time!

Featured image: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2006-ca-turkey.jpg