What Is Proposition 52? Voter Guide for 2016 California Measures

LOS ANGELES, CA --Proposition 52 would extend the soon-to-expire hospital fees used to fund things such as Medi-Cal health services, uninsured patient care and children's health services.

The fee is set to end Jan. 1, 2018. It's opponents argue that the measure offers no accountability for the more than $3 billion raised by the fee. However, its supporters say it would fund critical programs and prevent diversion of funds for other purposes without voter consent. Ultimately, it would alter the state constitution to require a public vote for changes to the hospital fee program and make it harder for lawmakers to use potions of the funds for any purpose other than supporting hospital care to Medi-Cal patients and medical care for low-income children.

The measure has widespread bipartisan support of both parties and lawmakers as well as unions, hospitals and most major medical associations. Proponents say the fee helps ensure access to medical care for all while also tapping into $3 billion in federal matching funds.

It's most notable opponent is the Libertarian Party. Opponents contend there is a lack of accountability for the spending and it favors corporations and hospital CEOs..

According to Ballotpedia, the measure:

• "Extends indefinitely an existing statute that imposes fees on hospitals to obtain federal matching funds.
• Uses fees to fund Medi-Cal health care services, care for uninsured patients, and children’s health coverage.
• Requires voter approval to change use of fees or funds.
• Permits other amendments or repeal by Legislature with a two-thirds vote.
• Declares fee proceeds do not count as revenue toward state spending limit or Proposition 98 funding requirement"

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8

Your polling place is listed on the back of the sample ballot you receive in the mail. It can also be found by visiting www.sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place or by calling (800) 345-VOTE (8683)

For more on all of California's measures, see below:

• What Is Proposition 51?
• What Is Proposition 52?
• What Is Proposition 53?
• What Is Proposition 54?
• What Is Proposition 55?
• What Is Proposition 56?
• What Is Proposition 57?
• What Is Proposition 58?
• What Is Proposition 59?
• What Is Proposition 60?
• What Is Proposition 61?
• What Is Proposition 62?
• What Is Proposition 63?
• What Is Proposition 64?
• What Is Proposition 65?
• What Is Proposition 66?
• What Is Proposition 67?

Patch file photo