The measure would establish a half-cent sales tax in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, and a 1-cent sales tax in San Francisco, over the next 14 years. The tax would generate an estimated $1 billion annually and would be used to fund operations at AC Transit, BART, Caltrain, Muni and other transit agencies. It also funds repaving of transit routes, wayfinding and accessibility programs. Passes with a majority of the combined vote from the five participating counties.
Yes Argument
Public transportation is critical to the region’s economic success, environmental health and quality of life. Bay Area transit agencies are facing an existential budget crisis due to drops in revenue and ridership related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Without this new funding source, they will be forced to make catastrophic service cuts, including eliminating two BART lines, for example. This measure is needed to ensure a sustainable future for Bay Area public transit.
No Argument
Bay Area transit agencies already receive around $6 billion a year in taxes, tolls and government grants, and they should use existing funds before asking taxpayers for more money. By diverting money from existing capital projects, renegotiating labor contracts, reducing overtime pay or automating service, agencies could avoid service cuts. Agencies should first cut costs and then come back to voters with a slimmed-down tax proposal in a subsequent election.
Key Supporters
In Support
- Jesse Arreguín, state senator
- Chris Larsen, tech entrepreneur
- Nancy Pelosi, U.S. representative
- Scott Wiener, state senator
- Service Employees International Union Local 1021
In Opposition
- Contra Costa Taxpayers Association
- San Francisco Taxpayers Association