Proposition 99 Funds

In 1988, California voters passed Proposition 99, which raised the state tax on cigarettes by 25 cents per pack. These funds were to be used for purposes outlined in the proposition, including the funding of biomedical research into tobacco-related diseases such as heart and lung disease. Despite this mandate from the voters of California, Gov. Pete Wilson illegally diverted these funds to other programs. The American Cancer Society, American Lung Assn. and Americans for Nonsmoker’s Rights filed a joint lawsuit, and Sacramento Superior Court Judge Roger K. Warren recently ruled that Wilson’s action was illegal and the diverted funds be restored and used for the original intention stipulated in Proposition 99.

The governor has until June 1 to appeal this decision. An appeal would cost the state additional money, would freeze the diverted funds and would continue a policy of disregard for the will of the voters. I implore the governor not to appeal the decision.

H. KIRK HAMMOND MD

Associate Professor

School of Medicine, UC San Diego