Calif. leaders propose $23B plan to protect science research
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A coalition of California leaders, scientists and research institutions gathered Monday to formally launch the campaign for a 2026 ballot measure that aims to offset federal cuts to scientific research funding.
Why it matters: The Trump administration's cancellation of billions of dollars in funds has led to lab closures, layoffs and hiring freezes across the nation.
State of play: The measure, spearheaded by state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), would use $23 billion in bonds to establish and fund a state version of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the National Science Foundation (NSF), the New York Times reports.
- The California Foundation for Science and Health Research would have the authority to award grants and make loans to public and private universities, research companies and health care organizations in the state.
What they're saying: "If these funding cuts to research happened a decade ago, I would not be speaking in front of you here today," disability justice advocate Ryan Manriquez, who was born with spinal muscular atrophy, said at a press conference Monday.
- "It's going to be a huge undertaking to get a bond on the ballot ... and then to pass it, but I know that California has what it takes to step up and to lead when it comes to science," Wiener added.
The big picture: At $6.2 billion, California received the most combined NIH and NSF funding in fiscal 2024.
- The University of California expects to lose $4–5 billion annually if the Trump administration eliminates more research funding from next year's federal budget, UC president James B. Milliken said in September.
- At UCSF, 104 grants were terminated this spring alone, UCSF vice chancellor for research Harold Collard noted at the press conference.
What's next: To be placed on the 2026 ballot, the measure must secure two-thirds of the vote in each chamber of the California Legislature.