2012 California Proposition 29

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2012 California Proposition 29

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Elected California Proposition 29 TBD

California Proposition 29, also known as the California Cancer Research Act, was a California ballot proposition that appeared on the June 5, 2012 statewide primary ballot. The proposition sought to impose an additional $1.00 per pack tax on cigarettes to fund cancer research and tobacco-related disease prevention programs.

Background

Proposition 29 was introduced as a measure to increase funding for cancer research and tobacco-related disease prevention. The initiative was supported by various health organizations, including the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and the American Lung Association. The measure was also endorsed by Lance Armstrong, a cancer survivor and professional cyclist.

Provisions

The key provisions of Proposition 29 included:

• Imposing an additional $1.00 per pack tax on cigarettes.
• Allocating the revenue generated from the tax to fund cancer research, tobacco-related disease prevention, and law enforcement efforts to combat tobacco smuggling.
• Establishing a nine-member committee to oversee the distribution of funds.

Support and Opposition

Support

Supporters of Proposition 29 argued that the additional tax would reduce smoking rates, particularly among youth, and provide much-needed funding for cancer research and prevention programs. They highlighted the potential public health benefits and the long-term cost savings associated with reduced smoking rates.

Opposition

Opponents of Proposition 29 included tobacco companies and some taxpayer advocacy groups. They argued that the measure would create a new bureaucracy, with funds potentially being spent outside of California. They also contended that the tax would disproportionately affect low-income smokers.

Election Results

Proposition 29 was narrowly defeated in the June 5, 2012, primary election. The final vote count was 3,037,530 (50.2%) against and 3,014,327 (49.8%) in favor.

Aftermath

Following the defeat of Proposition 29, supporters continued to advocate for increased funding for cancer research and tobacco prevention programs through other legislative and ballot initiatives. The narrow margin of the vote highlighted the contentious nature of tobacco taxation and public health funding in California.

See also

• California Proposition 56 (2016)
• California ballot proposition
• Tobacco control