California voters may decide on a far-reaching tax measure in the November 2024 election that would require voter approval for any new state or local taxes and tax increases. The "Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act" initiative, backed by business groups, would:

Supporters argue the measure is needed to rein in excessive taxation and provide accountability, while critics fear it could severely hamper funding for vital public services, infrastructure, and emergency response efforts.[2][4] The California Supreme Court heard arguments this week on whether to remove the initiative from the November ballot, as requested by Governor Newsom and other Democratic leaders who claim it is an unconstitutional revision of state powers.[4]

The court appears split on the issue, with some justices suggesting a decision could wait until after the election to avoid prejudging voters.[4] If the measure qualifies, it would be one of the most consequential tax initiatives in California since Proposition 13 in 1978 which limited property tax increases.[2]

Sources [1] https://www.theepochtimes.com/us/newsom-and-democrat-leaders-attempting-to-take-proposition-47-repeal-off-ballot-5665059?est=bxOIdh4%2Bshrw2v0LJFIWJjO5505XdlBd2zHxA3zx3V0AQGhx1ov5QE4%3D [2] Will the California Supreme Court Let Voters Decide Tax Hikes? https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/are-california-tax-changes-coming-in-november [3] Referendum - California Secretary of State https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/ballot-measures/referendum?nbbdv=x [4] California Supreme Court appears split on blocking tax initiative https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/08/california-court-tax-initiative-00156834 [5] California taxes: Will limit measure make the ballot? - CalMatters https://calmatters.org/politics/elections/2024/05/california-taxes-ballot-measure/