Editorial: Daily Journal proposition recommendations for the November 2018 election

Proposition 3-YES: Authorizes $8.877 billion in bonds for various infrastructure projects, saving local governments money for water-related projects. Because of the drought, the importance of water storage and conveyance is known more than ever. This proposition will help solidify our state’s watersheds and water supplies. Vote YES.

Proposition 4-NO: Authorizes $1.5 billion in bonds to fund construction at hospitals providing children’s health care. There are many hospitals throughout California that provide children’s health care, both private and public. Those run by private companies, while typically nonprofit, don’t require the benefit of public money. Vote NO.

Proposition 5-YES: Allows for homeowners over 55 years old or severely disabled to transfer their property tax base to a new residence. It also removes certain restrictions already in place for such transfers. Opponents suggest older homeowners already receive the benefit of low property taxes because of Proposition 13. While that is largely true, this would provide an incentive for property owners to downsize or move elsewhere in retirement and free up much-needed housing near employment centers like San Mateo County. Vote YES.

Proposition 6-NO: Repeals Senate Bill 1, the gas tax and fee provisions that aim to provide repairs and improvements to roads, highways and public transit. No one likes paying more at the pump, but SB 1 addressed a shortfall in gas taxes and raised them to meet today’s needs. Improvements to our roads and public transit systems will suffer if this proposition passes. Vote NO.

Proposition 7-YES: Allows the state Legislature to permanently change to Daylight Saving Time. Changing our clocks twice a year is archaic. This will allow us to stop doing that and stick with one time all year long. Vote YES.

Proposition 8-NO: Regulates the amount outpatient kidney dialysis clinics charge for treatment. While high health care costs are a burden, most are covered by insurance. This proposition could disincentivize clinics from opening or staying in business and such facilities are needed. Vote NO.

Proposition 10-NO. Repeals the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, that restricts the scope of rent-control policies local government can enact. Costa-Hawkins was enacted in 1995 after rent control policies began in several California cities and out of concern its spread would eliminate incentives to construct new housing. While rents are too high in many places, this would enable more rent control policies, which have been proven time and again to not help the overall renter population. Vote NO.

Proposition 11-NO. Requires private-sector emergency ambulance workers to remain on call during work breaks. This is a labor issue and should be dealt with in the typical fashion, not through state initiative. Vote NO.

Proposition 12-YES. Establishes new standards of confinement for specified farm animals. Opponents say this initiative doesn’t do enough, proponents say it is a step in the right direction. Animal practices are changing and this proposition provides more space for animals. Vote YES.