Everything You Need to Know About LA County’s Measure ER Sales Tax Increase Proposal
Los Angeles County to Vote on Sales Tax Increase for Public Health
Los Angeles County voters will soon determine whether to approve a five-year increase in the sales tax, aimed at raising $1 billion to bolster public health care and essential services. Supporters assert that this funding is crucial, as many residents face potential loss of health coverage due to recent federal funding cuts linked to the "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act.
Advocates emphasize that the revenue generated would be vital for maintaining public health clinics and services amid these anticipated coverage losses. "We need to ensure that those losing Medi-Cal do not end up sicker in emergency rooms," a proponent noted.
Opponents, however, express concerns that the additional tax could further strain families already grappling with rising living costs.
Measure ER Explained
The proposed Essential Services Restoration Act, known as Measure ER, seeks to implement a temporary half-cent increase per dollar spent in LA County, translating to approximately 5 cents for every $10. With a projected annual revenue of about $1 billion from October 2026 to 2031, this measure would exempt essential items such as groceries, prescription drugs, and medical equipment.
The tax would expire in October 2031 and cannot be renewed without new voter approval.
Support for Measure ER
Supporters highlight that the measure could assist around 700,000 residents losing health insurance as federal funding for Medi-Cal decreases. Proponents, including health organizations like the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, describe Measure ER as an "urgent and necessary step" to safeguard access to life-saving care.
LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell has also publicly endorsed the initiative. Earlier this year, the LA County Department of Public Health reported the closure of seven clinics due to a substantial loss of funding exceeding $50 million, underlining the urgency of the proposed tax increase.
Opposition to Measure ER
Critics, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, argue that the current sales tax in LA County is already excessive. They label the proposed increase "unreasonable and unfairly harsh," particularly for those with limited financial means.
LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger has voiced strong opposition to the measure, citing existing economic strains on residents. "This proposed half-cent increase would push us even higher, making our county less affordable for families and less appealing for consumers and businesses," Barger stated.
A recent poll conducted by the California Democratic Party indicated that 14% of voters remain undecided on the measure. The outcome will have significant implications for health care funding and public services in the region.
