Proposition 136
In his column about the overuse of bonds by state government (Opinion, Oct. 7), Cary Lowe incorrectly states Proposition 136, which I authored, requires a two-thirds vote for new taxes. In fact, Proposition 136 requires a simple majority vote if the taxes go into the general fund where spending can be prioritized. The two-thirds requirement applies only to “special taxes,” those taxes which are permanently locked in for special purposes.
Lowe also misses the mark when he argues that general obligation bonds should receive a majority vote for passage. The two-thirds vote requirement for passage of local general obligation bonds--a requirement that predates Proposition 13--is an important protection for taxpayers. These bonds are backed by property taxes, that is, people’s homes. Further, under the rent-control laws of Los Angeles, tax increases to cover bonds cannot be passed on to renters. Therefore, Lowe is mistaken when he says the costs of local general obligation bonds are shared by the whole community.
JOEL FOX, President
Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn.
Los Angeles
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