California Voters to Decide on Proposition 45 in November

The upcoming ballot measure aims to reform the state's environmental review process for major infrastructure projects.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Data Centers

California Voters to Decide on Proposition 45 in November

Live Poll

Should California streamline environmental review processes to help accelerate housing and infrastructure development?

California voters will decide the fate of Proposition 45 in the upcoming November 3, 2026 midterm elections. The measure proposes significant changes to the 1970 California Environmental Quality Act to expedite specific infrastructure developments.

Why it matters

Proponents claim the amendment will lower housing and energy costs by streamlining project timelines, while opponents argue it undermines critical environmental and civic safeguards. The outcome may shift how the state approaches long-term growth and infrastructure deployment.

Proposition 45 targets eight infrastructure categories including data centers and clean energy, with administrative costs projected at $100 million annually. Campaign financing has reached $40 million for proponents and $20 million for opponents.

The players

Eric Schmidt

The former Google executive is a prominent supporter of the ballot initiative.

Wendy Schmidt

She is a notable philanthropist and opponent of the proposed legislative changes.

California Chamber of Commerce

This business advocacy organization is the primary sponsor of the proposition.

California Republican Party

The state party organization has formally voiced its support for the measure.

California Democratic Party

The state party organization is currently leading the opposition to the proposition.

The details

The measure seeks to shorten environmental review periods and limit the scope of judicial decisions regarding project challenges. Legal experts anticipate that passage will lead to immediate litigation concerning the construction of data centers across the state.

1970: The California Environmental Quality Act is enacted.
July 2026: Polling indicated 73% support for the proposition.
November 3, 2026: The California midterm elections take place.

The Tech Race

Proposition 45 marks a pivotal shift in how the state manages infrastructure, potentially ending current local building bans that hamper data center expansion. This development sets the stage for a broader conflict between regulatory oversight and the urgent demand for digital infrastructure.

If passed, the measure could alter local building regulations, potentially accelerating the development of data centers in residential or business areas. Residents should prepare for potential shifts in local infrastructure planning and associated environmental oversight.

The takeaway

Proposition 45 highlights the ongoing tension between rapid infrastructure development and established environmental protections. Voters must weigh the potential for lower utility costs against the loss of traditional oversight mechanisms.