March 15
This measure proposes to provide additional funding for emergency medical care services by increasing the surcharge on criminal fines, forfeitures, and penalties, including vehicle code violations, but not including parking offenses.
February 26
The measure increases the state minimum wage from the current $6.75 per hour to $10.29 per hour, effective January 1, 2003. In addition, the measure requires the Industrial Welfare Commission to adjust annually the minimum wage rate based on a consumer price index. The first adjustment would be effective January 1, 2005.
January 29
This measure would make major changes in the way in which California’s state and local governments raise revenues and finance programs. This would be accomplished by (1) replacing the existing sales and use tax (SUT) with a value added sales tax on certain tangible personal property, (2) replacing various excise taxes, (3) eliminating certain local taxes and fees, (4) eliminating taxing authority of certain local governments, and (5) making certain other changes in the law governing taxation.
January 29
The proposed initiative would establish the Correctional Education Board within the California Department of Corrections (CDC) to manage prison education programs. The board, comprised of 15 representatives from various academic and nonacademic institutions, would be responsible for ensuring that prison education programs meet certain minimum standards. The measure also requires the board to provide every inmate with the opportunity to achieve functional literacy, the equivalent of a high school education, and college-level academic programs for some. The measure further requires that inmates have improved access to vocational training programs.
January 15
The measure specifies the minimum and maximum injury and death benefits and ties them to the state average weekly wage for the previous calendar year. The specified amounts are higher than the benefits provided under current law.
January 15
The measure amends the State Constitution to require that workers’ compensation benefits for injuries that occur on and after January 1, 2003 be based on the state average weekly wage and be increased annually thereafter. To implement this provision, the measure specifies the minimum and maximum injury and death benefits and ties them to the state average weekly wage for the previous calendar year. The specified amounts are higher than the benefits provided under current law.