Legislation Introduced to Ease Local Cities' Transportation-Funding Efforts

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA – Legislation announced today by state Sen. Scott Wiener would make it easier for local governments to pass transportation funding measures.

The legislation, Senate Constitutional Amendment 6, would lower the voter approval threshold for transportation measures to 55 percent from its current level of two-thirds, or 66.6 percent.

"California is in a world of hurt when it comes to transportation," he said, "and we need to step up now to avoid a future of widespread, perpetual, crippling congestion and gridlock."

The change would put transportation measures on the same footing as school bond measures, which also require only a 55 percent majority for approval.

"We've neglected our transportation systems for decades, and we're now paying the price with deteriorated roads, bridges, and public transportation systems," Wiener said today in a statement.

"To meaningfully address our transportation needs -- which will reduce congestion, grow our economy, fight climate change, and help low-income workers -- we need to change how we approve these funding measures," he said.

The legislation requires an amendment to the state Constitution, and must be approved by two-thirds of the Legislature before it is placed on the ballot for the next scheduled statewide election in June 2018. The
measure must win a majority of votes to pass.

Measures must be fully dedicated to transportation-related projects and programs to qualify for the 55 percent threshold under the legislation, but can be designated for capital improvements or operating
costs.

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