California Proposition Guide

19: Legalizing Marijuana: YES

Not going to pass, but it will be close. Not perfect, but pretty good. Arguments against are pretty lame.

20: Redistricting: YES

Leave the panel in place and don't allow politicians to draw their own lines.

21: Parks Fee: NO

Cut the budget in other places and stop assessing taxes disguised as fees.

22: State Borrowing: YES

Keeps the money where it belongs, and prevents the State from raiding local coffers. It's time for the legislature to act responsibly and spend according to the revenues available.

23: Oil Baron Proposition: EMPHATIC NO

The oil companies want to prevent competition with new and renewable energy technology in the state that is their biggest customer. It will not cause job losses, it will create new jobs.

24: Tax Bill: Undecided, but probably no.

I know, you're counting on me to inform, but I really don't know about this. The arguments on both sides are well thought out and present valid points. Unlike politicians, I like to think beyond next week and the next election cycle. I think a better proposition is within this one: the Legislature cannot authorize any new taxes or tax breaks without a 2/3 majority and/or majority vote of the people. I like the idea of this one, but I think it's just not written right.

25: Budget vote changes: YES

This one kind of speaks for itself. Get the budget done, or don't get paid. Does not raise taxes or make it easier to do. It still requires the 2/3 majority for that. This one makes sense.

26: State and Local Fees: No

I'm basing this vote on 2 factors: Who's paying for it and the credibility of those against it. All of the funding comes from big oil and tobacco companies, and it is opposed by groups who have a great deal more credibility than they.

27: Redistricting (again): NO

One of these two was actually pulled, but I don't remember which one. They both will still appear on the ballot, I believe. This one wants to eliminate the commission on redistricting, whereas the other wants to keep it. That's why 20 is yes and 27 is no.

There you have it. Now, GO VOTE!


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