Major changes could be in store for California homeowners and businesses this fall, depending on the outcome of two property tax propositions on the ballot. Voters will be considering two controversial measures that will overturn parts of the state’s Proposition 13 law, including:
- Proposition 15, which would increase property taxes on businesses.
- Proposition 19, which would allow California homeowners over the age of 55, the disabled, and victims of natural disasters to transfer lower property tax rates to new homes.
In the first of our five “Props to You” election events, CalMatters talked to people on both sides of these measures about what the results, whether it’s a “Yes” or a “No” vote, will mean for Californians.
Prop 15 Discussion
Prop 15 would hike property taxes on businesses, raising billions of dollars for schools and local governments.
Panelists:
FOR Prop 15 – Ben Grieff, campaign director and spokesperson for Evolve California
AGAINST Prop 15 – Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
The Prop 15 debate was moderated by CalMatters political reporter Ben Christopher.
Prop 19 Discussion
Prop 19 would give California homeowners 55 or older a property tax break when buying a new home. It would also close an inheritance tax break to fund schools, local governments and the state, with a big chunk going to firefighters.
Panelists:
FOR Prop 19 – Laiza Negrete, vice-president of political affairs, California Association of Realtors
AGAINST Prop 19 – Susan Shelley, vice-president of communications, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
CalMatters data and housing reporter Matt Levin moderated this discussion.
You can learn more about the state ballot measures and election candidates in our California 2020 Voter Guide. You can also watch our full playlist of videos that explains each proposition in one minute here.