On Your November Ballot: Prop 38 Would Allocate $8.4 Billion to Immunology and Immunotherapy Funding

September 14, 2026

California's Proposition 38 asks voters in November to authorize $8. 4 billion in state bonds to fund immunology and immunotherapy research aimed at developing treatments for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. The measure requires at least half the funds to go exclusively to research, mandates a partnership with a University of California-affiliated nonprofit research institute, and directs remaining funds to California medical institutions through peer-reviewed grants.

Who is affected

California taxpayers (who would repay the bonds over 20 years)
California voters (who will decide on the proposition in November)
A University of California-affiliated nonprofit research institute focused on immunology and immunotherapy
California-based public and nonprofit medical institutions (eligible for grant funding)
Patients with cancer, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, ALS, Parkinson's, and other conditions targeted by the research
The Advisory and Accountability Research Council (to be created)

What action is being taken

The "Yes on 38" campaign (Californians for Life-Saving Immunology Research and Cures) is leading the support effort
The "No on Proposition 38" campaign is leading opposition to the measure
Various organizations including the California Democratic Party, The ALS Association, Alzheimer's organizations, California Black Health Network, Parkinson Association of Northern California, and League of Women Voters of California are publicly taking positions on the initiative

Why it matters

This proposition matters because it would commit California to significant long-term debt ($8.4 billion in bonds with $500-600 million annual payments for 20 years) from the state's General Fund, which also supports schools, healthcare, and other public services. The research could potentially lead to breakthrough treatments for major diseases affecting millions of people by harnessing the immune system rather than attacking cells directly. The measure represents a continuation of California's investment strategy in cutting-edge medical research, following similar voter-approved initiatives for stem cell research, and could position the state as a leader in immunotherapy development while potentially generating future revenue if research discoveries prove successful.

What's next

California voters will decide on Proposition 38 in November
If passed, the state must enter into an agreement with a qualified University of California-affiliated nonprofit research institute within 90 days of the initiative's effective date
If passed, an Advisory and Accountability Research Council would be created to set criteria and research priorities for the grant process
If passed, the state would issue $8.4 billion in general obligation bonds to support the research

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint