Lawmakers in California have introduced a bill on Apr. 15 that would place a $23 billion bond on the November 2026 ballot, giving voters the chance to decide whether the state should fund scientific research. The proposed Senate Bill 895, known as the California Science and Health Research Bond Act, is co-sponsored by the University of California and authored by state Senator Scott Wiener.
The measure aims to support ongoing research efforts in California, which are seen as crucial for maintaining economic growth, medical advancements, and public health across communities. The bill has received bipartisan backing and is also co-sponsored by United Autoworkers Region 6 and the Union of American Physicians and Dentists.
If passed, SB 895 would establish the California Foundation for Science and Health Research. This foundation would provide competitive grants, low-interest loans, and modernized facilities focusing on urgent statewide priorities in scientific research.
Supporters say that scientific research forms the backbone of innovation in key industries such as biotechnology, agriculture, clean energy, computing, and semiconductors—sectors that drive jobs and investment throughout California. They highlight past achievements from University of California researchers including breakthroughs like the first flu vaccine, treatments for premature infants’ breathing difficulties, discoveries about cholesterol’s role in heart disease, advances in gene editing technology, among others.
As one of California’s largest employers with more than 266,800 employees statewide—including researchers as well as support staff—the University of California emphasizes that stable funding helps preserve these jobs while offering students hands-on experience vital to their education. The university also notes its leadership role nationally in receiving federal funding from agencies such as NIH (National Institutes of Health) and NSF (National Science Foundation), stating that continued state support is especially important amid uncertain federal budgets.
Community members are encouraged to contact their lawmakers about supporting SB 895 or discuss its importance with friends or neighbors ahead of November’s vote.
