California Will Decide Proposition 38 Funding in November
Voters will weigh an $8.4 billion bond measure to support immunology and immunotherapy research in November 2026.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Allergies
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Should California issue $8.4 billion in bonds to fund biomedical and immunology research?
In November 2026, California voters will cast ballots on Proposition 38, a measure to authorize $8.4 billion in general obligation bonds for immunology research. The funding aims to bolster regional research initiatives across the state.
Why it matters
Proponents argue the initiative provides critical support to bridge funding gaps created by federal NIH budget cuts. Meanwhile, opponents contend the measure places an undue burden on taxpayers and primarily benefits specific donor-led institutions.
Proposition 38 allocates $8.4 billion in bonds for immunology research, with $4.2 billion earmarked specifically for the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy. Funding eligibility will be determined by the California Department of Public Health.
The players
California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy
This research center is a potential beneficiary of the proposed bond measure and is located at UCLA.
Gary K. Michelson
He is a founder of the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy.
Meyer Luskin
He is a founder of the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy.
California Department of Public Health
This state agency is responsible for determining the eligibility of research institutes for bond funding.
The details
The bond measure designates half of its total funds for research into cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. The California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, founded by Gary K. Michelson and Meyer Luskin, is expected to qualify for half of the total bond proceeds.
Timeline
November 2026 is when California voters decide on Proposition 38.
2027 is the year proposed federal NIH funding cuts would occur.
Health Landscape
Proposition 38 positions its research bond as a regional fiscal response to the National Institutes of Health funding appropriations trajectory. This measure marks a shift toward state-level intervention as federal medical research budgets fluctuate.
The measure could impact healthcare access in California by providing significant state-backed resources for immunology treatments. Residents should note that the state bond may influence future research capabilities and clinical trial availability in the region.
The takeaway
Voters will decide whether to leverage state-issued debt to offset federal research spending declines. Those interested in the ballot measure should review the official language provided by state election authorities before casting their vote.
Further reading
For broader context on medical research funding and local healthcare initiatives, explore the Allergies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC7.
Live Poll
Should California issue $8.4 billion in bonds to fund biomedical and immunology research?
