Voters in several states considered ballot measures Nov. 4 focused on healthcare, including several hospital funding initiatives.
Here are the healthcare-related ballot measures that passed — or are expected to:
1. $898 million bond for Valleywise Health
Proposition 409, which would increase funding for Phoenix-based Valleywise Health, is leaning toward approval with nearly 51% of votes in favor, KJZZ reported Nov. 5.
The $898 million bond would expand services and upgrade the publicly funded system’s facilities. Supporters said one of the most significant investments would be a renovation to double the capacity of Valleywise’s behavioral health center, KJZZ reported.
2. Sales-tax increase in California
Measure A, a five-eighths-cent general sales tax, was approved by 57% of voters in Santa Clara County, Calif., KTVU reported Nov. 5. The measure, effective April 1 and expiring April 2031, aims to compensate for federal cuts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Supporters said the tax will generate $330 million annually for Santa Clara County and support emergency departments, behavioral health and public safety services, KTVU reported.
3. Parcel tax to support Washington Health
Measure B, on the ballot in Alameda County, Calif., appears likely to pass, Bay City News reported Nov. 4. The parcel tax would generate $13 million annually for 12 years for Washington Hospital, a 415-bed acute care facility in Fremont, Calif.
If approved, the measure enacts a 5-cent per square-foot tax on residential and commercial property buildings.
4. Texas’ $3 billion dementia research fund
Texas voters passed Proposition 14, which will create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, The Texas Tribune reported Nov. 5. The proposition also authorizes the use of $3 billion in surplus state revenue to establish the fund.
State leaders plan to recruit physicians and researchers with expertise in dementia to Texas.
