Pasadena Chamber Board Takes Stance on California Ballot Measures

The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association’s Board of Directors has announced its positions on several California ballot initiatives slated for the November election. The Board’s recommendations, based on initial reviews by the Legislative and Government Affairs Committee, span a range of issues.

The Chamber Board opposed Proposition 32, which would raise California’s minimum wage to $18 per hour. The Board argued that such increases “do not have the intended result” of improving living standards for workers and negatively impact employers.

The Chamber also stood against Proposition 33, which would allow local governments to impose rent control on all rental units in California. Paul Little, the Chamber’s President and Chief Executive Officer, warned that this measure “would significantly stifle the development of housing in California, exacerbating our housing shortage.”

On the environmental front, the Board supported Proposition 4, a statewide bond measure to fund climate-impacted programs.

Little said, “We are experiencing the effects of climate change every day,” emphasizing the need for funding to address issues like wildfires and water shortages.

The Chamber backed Proposition 36, which aims to increase penalties for theft and drug trafficking. It would aggregate dollar amounts of thefts that can be counted as felonies and increase penalties for trafficking in fentanyl. Little commented that the measure “would enhance public safety in a measured and effective manner.”

The Board supported Proposition 34, requiring certain health providers to use federal prescription drug program revenue for patient care. Little described this as “a basic taxpayer protection” measure.

The Chamber opposed Proposition 2, a $10 billion school construction bond, citing its hasty placement on the ballot without serious consideration or specific project identification. It also rejected Proposition 5, which would lower voting thresholds for local infrastructure and housing measures.

On social issues, the Board supported Proposition 6, limiting forced labor in prisons, viewing it as a human rights issue. The Chamber also backed Proposition 35, which would make permanent a tax on managed healthcare insurance plans.

The Chamber’s recommendations aim to guide voters on measures impacting local businesses and the economy, considering whether propositions will have a local impact on businesses, the business community, or the economy.

The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association, founded in 1888 as the Board of Trade, serves over 1,250 members. It does not endorse individual candidates or fund campaigns of candidates or those in support or opposition to ballot measures.