California to Vote on Establishing $7.5B Scientific Research Fund

California voters will soon decide on creating a state scientific research fund valued at $7.5 billion, similar to the National Institutes of Health. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to place the proposal on the March 2028 ballot. This initiative seeks to counteract federal research cuts during Donald Trump’s administration and to ensure continued scientific advancement by state and private institutions, like the University of California and California State University.

If the measure gains approval, $7.5 billion in bonds will finance scientific and medical research on diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s, and ALS. Additionally, it will support studies on wildfire prevention, pandemic response, and climate change mitigation.

“This is a research and science bond that does the opposite of what Donald Trump is doing that will allow us to double down on what makes this state great — what makes America great,” Newsom stated during a bill signing on the Golden Gate Bridge.

Newsom emphasized California’s position as a key contributor to the U.S. economy because of its focus on future investments.

State Senate Bill 895, drafted by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), aims to safeguard scientific pursuits, enhance lives, and uphold California’s global standing in innovation. The bill’s sponsors include the Union of American Physicians, the University of California, and the United Auto Workers Local 4811, which represents nearly 60,000 UC academic workers.

Initially, the bond measure was conceived as a $23 billion proposal intended for a November vote. After revision, it was reduced to $12 billion but failed to secure legislative approval in time. A compromise was reached for a $7.5 billion bond measure for 2028.

The measure will also establish guidelines for the state fund to recoup part of its investments without hindering innovation.

“This is a major achievement, made possible by an extraordinary coalition of people who understand the importance of investing in scientific research,” stated UC President James B. Milliken.