Episode #65: California Passes $10 Billion Bond Measure That Fights Climate Change

California voters approved Proposition 4, a $10 billion plan that addresses the state’s most pressing climate change issues.

Supporters introduced the measure to voters in response to cuts to Governor Newsom’s $54.3 billion state climate package. The bond measure – which passed with an overwhelming 59 percent of the vote - will fund programs that improve clean water supplies, as well as fight wildfires, extreme heat and rising sea levels.

 The rest of the funding will go towards parks and outdoor recreation; land preservation and coastal protections as well as farm and ranch sustainability.

Prop 4 opponents point to the plan’s high cost, with voters paying $400 million in yearly installments over a 40-year period. But supporters say that the plan will save billions in future costs that go towards wildfires and water shortages. 

The measure comes at a critical period, as the nation waits for the newly re-elected president Donald Trump to roll out the Republican transition program, Project 2025. Among other things, the draconian project calls for abolishing all federal programs that address climate change and repealing Biden-backed laws that fund clean energy.

Joining us to discuss the issue is Juliet Christian-Smith,  Western States Regional Director with the Union of Concerned Scientists.