California Supreme Court Blocks Taxpayer Protection Ballot Measure

The measure would have subjected tax hikes to voter approval and broadened the definition of taxes. The court found it unconstitutional.

The California State Capitol building Sacramento, Calif., on April 18, 2022. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times

In an opinion released on June 20, the California Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s and the state Legislature’s request to remove a ballot measure that would make it more difficult for the government to raise taxes.

At issue is an initiative known as the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, which would define taxes to include any fees or charges imposed by the state and would require approval by the electorate and a two-thirds vote by lawmakers.