California Voters Will Decide Tax Future in November
Proposition 3 seeks to permanently extend existing high-earner income tax rates to protect public school funding.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Should California permanently extend income tax rates on high earners to fund public schools?
In November 2026, California voters will decide the fate of high-earner income tax rates by voting on Proposition 3. The measure aims to remove the scheduled 2030 expiration of these tax brackets to secure up to $15 billion annually for public schools and healthcare.
Why it matters
The measure seeks to preserve vital state funding for public education and healthcare systems. Proponents argue that making this revenue stream permanent is necessary to stabilize staffing levels and manage class sizes in districts across the state.
Proposition 3 preserves up to $15 billion annually for state services. Rural districts, including those in Willits, face a potential annual loss of $3.6 million, while Mendocino College projects a $6 million annual shortfall.
The players
Ukiah Unified School District
This rural educational agency serves students in Mendocino County and recently navigated significant budget cuts and the loss of a federal mental health grant.
Mendocino College
The institution serves the Mendocino County region and faces a potential $6 million annual revenue loss if the current tax brackets are allowed to sunset.
Willits Teachers Association
This labor organization represents educators in Willits and warns of potential annual losses exceeding $3.6 million if the tax measure is not extended.
The details
The tax applies strictly to high earners and imposes no new tax burden on middle- or lower-income households. If the measure fails, the expiration of these tax lines is projected to reduce state education revenues for rural districts by 15% to 16%, exacerbating existing fiscal pressures like those seen when Ukiah Unified School District cut 26 positions in early 2026.
Timeline
2012: Proposition 30 was approved.
Early 2026: Ukiah Unified School District trimmed 26 positions.
2030: Current high-earner tax brackets are scheduled to expire.
November 2026: Voters will cast their ballots for Proposition 3.
Roadmap
Proposition 3 follows the precedent set by the 2012 passage of Proposition 30, which initially established these income tax brackets. The measure represents a broader shift in state-level fiscal policy aimed at creating permanent revenue streams to support public infrastructure.
The vote determines whether state funding for local public schools remains stable or faces significant reductions. Residents may see long-term effects on school staffing, class sizes, and available campus services based on the outcome.
The takeaway
Voters face a choice between maintaining current high-earner tax rates or allowing those revenues to sunset by 2030. Ensuring stable funding for rural education districts remains the primary argument for those supporting the permanent extension.
Further reading
For more on the state of local classrooms, read about Secondary Education in California.
Live Poll
Should California permanently extend income tax rates on high earners to fund public schools?
