November 2, 2004 General Election

Click on Proposition number to see a more detailed analysis.

YES ON PROPOSITION 59

GOVERNMENT OPEN TO THE PEOPLE

Support Proposition 59--Public Records. Open Meetings.

This measure will add to the State Constitution the requirement that meetings of public bodies and writings of public officials and agencies be open to public scrutiny. California's open government laws have been weakened by special interest legislation, court decisions that put the burden on the public to justify disclosure, and government officials who want to avoid scrutiny and keep secrets. Prop. 59 establishes a new civil right of access to meetings of government bodies and writings of government officials. It protects personal privacy and allows reasonable exceptions in the public interest. Citizens should not have to prove to government officials why they should have access to "public" records and procedures. Prop. 59 shifts the burden, requiring government officials to prove their need for secrecy.

For more information: www.yesonprop59.org

NO ON PROPOSITION 69

FIGHT ATTACK ON PRIVACY RIGHTS

Oppose Proposition 69--DNA Samples. Collection. Database. Funding.

More than a fingerprint, DNA exposes personal, private medical information about you and your family. California already has a DNA database for criminals who have committed sexual assault and other serious, violent crimes. Proposition 69 would expand the collection of DNA to include all convicted felons and some nonfelons, and, beginning in 2009, all adults arrested for any felony. This expansion is an invasion of privacy not needed for criminal justice. Once individuals are put into the criminal DNA database, they must request a court order to be removed--even if they are factually innocent and never charged with a crime--and the government has no obligation to remove them. Prop. 69 violates the principle that one is innocent until proven guilty.

For more information: www.protectmydna.com

YES ON PROPOSITION 72

SUPPORT CALIFORNIA HEALTH CARE

Support Proposition 72--Health Care Coverage Requirements. Referendum.

Prop. 72 allows a 2003 law (SB 2) to go into effect, giving health coverage to a million uninsured employees and dependents. Prop 72 requires large and mid-sized employers to provide health benefits or contribute to a statewide purchasing pool. About 80 percent of those who will be covered are employees of large companies ( 200 or more workers) and their families. Small businesses with under 50 employees are exempt from Proposition 72. Rising healthcare costs are a concern to all Californians. Prop 72 will help employees by limiting their share of premiums and out-of-pocket costs; it gives employers marketing power to lower premiums. It will level the playing field for companies that provide health insurance benefits but have to compete against those who don't.

For more information: www.yesonprop72.com

BE AN ADVOCATE FOR GOOD GOVERNMENT
VOTE WITH THE LEAGUE ON NOVEMBER 2