Union opposes one eminent domain measure, supports the other

To build California’s schools, roads and other public interest projects, state and local government entities buy hundreds of millions of dollars worth of private property each year. Most of the time, the government agrees on a price and purchases the land from a willing seller.

When property owners and the government cannot reach an agreement, the California constitution allows the state and local governments to take private property so long as it is for public use and the government properly compensates the private party.

NO on Proposition 98

 A conservative “property rights” movement financed by anti-tax and landlord groups is seeking to radically change the current law regarding a local government’s ability to control property use by placing Proposition 98 on the ballot. They are also seeking to abolish local rent control laws and eliminate local environmental protections.

 Don’t confuse this new Prop. 98 with the existing and same-numbered Proposition 98, the education funding measure passed by voters in 1988 to guarantee funding for California schools and community colleges.

Prop. 98 on the June 3 ballot contains flawed eminent domain provisions that would increase lawsuits, red tape and taxpayer costs, and jeopardize environmental protections. It prohibits rent control and eliminates laws that protect seniors against landlords. Prop. 98 is opposed by the CFT, California Labor Federation, AARP and the Consumer Federation of California.

YES  on Proposition 99

 In response to Prop. 98, a straightforward eminent domain measure that will constitutionally protect homeowners has been placed on the ballot.

Proposition 99 prohibits the use of eminent domain to take

an owner-occupied home and transfer it to a private developer. It preserves existing protections for renters and environment regulations.

Prop. 99 is supported by a broad coalition of homeowners, business, labor, cities, counties and environmentalists including the California League of Conservation Voters, California Alliance for Retired Americans, and California Fire Chiefs Association.