California Fair Elections Act of 2026 (Public Campaign Financing)
Plain-English Summary
A legislatively referred measure that would amend the Political Reform Act of 1974 to allow state and local governments to establish public financing programs for political campaigns, with restrictions on how those public funds may be spent.
What each outcome does
If approved, state and local governments could create public financing programs for candidates who agree to spending limits and qualification rules; public funds could not be used for legal defense, fines, or repaying personal loans, and foreign-contribution violations would carry misdemeanor penalties.
If rejected, current restrictions on public financing of campaigns at the state and most local levels remain in place.
Who is funding each side
BallotPulse is non-partisan. We summarize each outcome in plain English and disclose the money on both sides. We do not tell you how to vote. Always read the official ballot text and decide for yourself.