THE GOVERNOR HAS SIGNED SB 42 

Voters now have the opportunity to lift the ban on public financing in California. We have the Governor’s signature on SB 42 (Umberg). It will go on the November 2026 ballot.

Big money in politics is drowning out voters – and Californians have had enough. Wealthy donors and special interests have too much power over our elected officials. Mega-donors and corporate-funded independent expenditures are dominating our elections, sidelining everyday voters and eroding trust in government. That’s why the League of Women Voters of California sponsored SB 42.

SB 42 is a bold step to take back our democracy. It would lift California’s outdated ban on public financing of campaigns. SB 42 doesn’t impose public financing – it gives voters the power to choose it.

• Public financing amplifies the voices of small donors and everyday voters.
• It lowers barriers to running for office, helping build a more diverse and representative democracy.
• It restores trust by reducing the stranglehold of wealthy special interests on our political system.