Sacramento Voters Will Decide on Measure M in November

The proposed parcel tax aims to boost funding for special education services in the school district.

Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Special Education

Isometric editorial illustration of a school silhouette and circular fiscal symbol, representing a local ballot initiative for special education funding. — Sacramento City Unified School District voters will decide this November on Measure M, a $95 parcel tax for special education services. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your local district levy new property taxes to fund special education services?

Sacramento City Unified School District voters will head to the polls in November 2026 to decide on Measure M. The ballot initiative proposes a $95 annual parcel tax to fund special education services, which are currently facing rising costs.

Why it matters

The measure seeks to address a gap in funding, as federal support currently covers only 12% of special education costs against a 40% target. Supporters believe this local revenue is essential to maintain district services.

The measure would cost property owners $95 per parcel annually, with exemptions available for some seniors and disability benefit recipients. It is expected to generate $10 million in annual revenue for the district.

The players

Sacramento City Unified School District

This is the local school district responsible for overseeing the public education of students within Sacramento.

California Teachers Association

This organization is a major labor union representing educators throughout the state of California.

California Association of Realtors

This is a trade association that represents real estate professionals and advocates for property owner interests.

The details

The Sacramento City Unified School District board approved the measure in July 2026 to combat rising costs across California. While the California Teachers Association has contributed $470,800 to support the effort, the California Association of Realtors Issues Mobilization PAC has donated $200,000 to oppose the tax.

The district board approved the measure in July 2026.
The tax takes effect July 1, 2026, if voters pass the measure.
The NEA President endorsed the measure in September 2026.
Voters will cast their ballots on the measure in November 2026.

Culture Shift

This ballot measure reflects a growing trend of local school districts attempting to bridge chronic public funding shortfalls through property taxation. It highlights the strain on local budgets as they attempt to fulfill mandates that federal funding targets have failed to reach.

If approved, homeowners will see a new $95 charge on their annual property tax bills starting July 1, 2026. Residents who qualify as seniors or recipients of disability benefits may be eligible for exemptions from this tax.

The takeaway

Voters must weigh the local financial burden against the district's need to maintain critical student support programs. Property owners should review their tax status to determine if they qualify for the planned exemptions.