California Voters Will Decide Tax Future in November 2026
Proposition 3 seeks to permanently extend high-earner income tax rates that currently fund state schools.
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?
California voters will decide in November 2026 whether to approve Proposition 3, a measure that would permanently extend income tax rates on high earners. If passed, the measure would preserve approximately $15 billion annually for public schools and healthcare across the state.
Why it matters
The measure aims to prevent a sharp decline in educational funding that would occur if current tax brackets expire in 2030. Rural districts face potential losses of 15% to 16% in state revenue if the funding is not made permanent.
The state currently spends roughly $20,000 per student, a figure that remains at risk as rural districts like Willits face a potential $3.6 million annual loss. Ukiah Unified School District, which already cut 26 positions in early 2026, could see further strain on its current 21% math and 34% reading proficiency levels.
The players
Ukiah Unified School District
A rural California public school system managing student proficiency levels and budget cuts.
Willits Teachers Association
A representative body for educators currently facing a potential $3.6 million annual budget reduction.
Mendocino College
A regional higher education institution projecting a $6 million annual loss if tax revenues expire.
The details
Proposition 3 removes the scheduled 2030 expiration date for existing income tax brackets applicable only to high-income earners. By establishing this as a permanent funding stream, the state aims to maintain support personnel and manage class sizes in public schools. The tax carries no increase for middle- or lower-income households, focusing instead on stabilizing the revenue base currently supporting public education and healthcare infrastructure.
Timeline
2012: Proposition 30 was initially approved.
Early 2026: Ukiah Unified School District trimmed 26 positions.
November 2026: Voters will decide on Proposition 3.
2030: Current tax brackets are scheduled to expire.
The Home Front
Proposition 3 serves as a direct extension of the funding mechanisms established by the 2012 approval of Proposition 30. This measure marks a significant shift from temporary tax-based school funding toward a permanent revenue structure for state education.
Families with students in rural districts should monitor local school board updates regarding potential budgetary adjustments ahead of the November 2026 election. Residents can track state-level education budget proposals to understand how these revenue shifts might affect class sizes and district staffing in their specific area.
The takeaway
Proposition 3 seeks to stabilize long-term public school funding by permanently extending tax rates on high earners. Homeowners and parents should monitor their local district budget reports to see how potential revenue changes impact student resources.
Further reading
Learn more about local school funding trends and policy updates in the California Secondary Education section.
Live Poll
Should California permanently extend income tax rates on high earners to fund public schools?
