Voters must make decisions on each of the eight statewide
propositions on today’s ballot; here are our recommendations.
Prop. 73, would require a waiting period and parental
notification before an unemancipated minor can have an
abortion.
Voters must make decisions on each of the eight statewide propositions on today’s ballot; here are our recommendations.
Prop. 73, would require a waiting period and parental notification before an unemancipated minor can have an abortion. Those opposed say that this measure, which operates only in those families where fear and intimidation interrupt communication attempts to legislate good family relationships, which is of course impossible. However, those in favor say that parents have a right to know about any minor child’s surgery.
Prop. 74 would extend the probation period for teachers from two years to five years, and would make it easier to dismiss tenured teachers. Those opposed say this measure will not improve education. Those in favor say it will give school districts a longer time to evaluate new teachers and make it easier and less expensive to dismiss tenured teachers. With some dissent, we see little cost and great potential benefit in this measure.
Prop. 75, which would require unions representing public employees to gain permission of union members before using their dues for political contributions, split our editorial board. Those opposed say that this measure creates an unfair playing field in two ways: It imposes restrictions on public employee unions that are not placed on private sector unions, and it does not place commensurate restrictions on corporations and other special interests who often oppose unions in political matters. Those in favor say public union members shouldn’t be forced to support causes they don’t like with their union dues.
Prop. 76 would limit state spending, amend minimum school spending requirements, and give additional budgeting power to the governor. Those in favor say radical measures are needed to deal with chronically late and bloated state budgets. Those opposed are against tinkering with the carefully crafted and long-standing balance of power in the branches of state government. If our governor and legislators can’t get the job done, it’s the voters’ job to replace them.
Prop. 77 would change the process for drawing California’s state Senate, Assembly, and U.S. House of Representatives districts. Instead of having state legislators draw districts, this measure would have a panel of retired judges draw districts. Those opposed dislike giving an unelected, unaccountable panel of judges this kind of power. Those in favor say that the current system is irretrievably broken due to self-interest, as evidenced by the complete lack of competitive races. The only way to fix the system is to take out the blatant conflict of interest.
Props. 78 and 79 are competing prescription drug plans, one sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, and the other by consumer, health and senior citizen advocates.
Prop. 80 would reregulate California’s electric industry. Those opposed dislike most regulation on principal. Those in favor ask voters to remember the market manipulation and rolling blackouts caused by deregulation. We’ve experienced deregulation and believe it would be foolish to ignore the lessons of history.
