2020 California Proposition 14

2020 California Proposition 14 results map by county

2020 California Proposition 14 was a ballot measure in the state of California, United States, that appeared on the November 3, 2020, general election ballot. Officially titled the California Stem Cell Research, Treatments, and Cures Initiative of 2020, Proposition 14 aimed to authorize $5.5 billion in state bonds to fund stem cell and other medical research, including training; research facility construction; administrative costs; and the development of treatments for diseases and medical conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and heart disease.

Background

Stem cell research has been a significant and controversial topic in both scientific and political circles due to its potential for treating a wide range of diseases and ethical concerns surrounding the use of human embryos. In 2004, California voters approved Proposition 71, which created the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) and funded it with $3 billion for stem cell research. By 2020, the funds from Proposition 71 were nearly depleted, prompting supporters to propose Proposition 14 to continue funding.

Provisions

Proposition 14 proposed to:

• Issue $5.5 billion in general obligation bonds to finance the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM).
• Allocate $1.5 billion specifically for research and therapy development for brain and central nervous system diseases.
• Include provisions for the state to negotiate sharing a portion of certain revenues generated from funded medical discoveries.
• Implement changes to CIRM's governance structure and accountability measures, including increased patient advocate involvement.

Support and Opposition

Supporters argued that Proposition 14 would continue vital research that could lead to cures for deadly and debilitating diseases, boost California's economy, and maintain the state's leadership in stem cell research and therapy development. Major endorsements came from patient advocacy groups, universities, and former California Governor Jerry Brown.

Opponents contended that the measure would increase state debt without guaranteeing successful outcomes from the research. They criticized the lack of financial oversight and the potential for conflicts of interest within CIRM. Fiscal conservatives and some taxpayer groups were among the opposition.

Outcome

Proposition 14 was approved by a majority of California voters, allowing the state to issue $5.5 billion in bonds to fund stem cell research. The approval meant that CIRM would continue its work, with additional oversight and accountability measures in place as outlined in the proposition.

Impact

The passage of Proposition 14 has ensured continued funding for stem cell research in California, which is expected to advance the development of treatments and potentially cures for various diseases. It also reaffirmed California's commitment to leading in the field of regenerative medicine, attracting researchers and investment to the state. However, the long-term impacts on state finances and the success rate of resulting medical advancements remain to be seen.