We are one step away from giving voters the opportunity to lift the ban on public financing in California. All we need is the Governor’s signature on SB 42 (Umberg) and then it will go on the November 2026 ballot.

Big money in politics is drowning out voters – and Californians have had enough. Wealthy donors and special interests have too much power over our elected officials. Mega-donors and corporate-funded independent expenditures are dominating our elections, sidelining everyday voters and eroding trust in government. That’s why the League of Women Voters of California is sponsoring SB 42. 

SB 42 is a bold step to take back our democracy. It would lift California’s outdated ban on public financing of campaigns.  SB 42 has passed the Legislature, and now we need the Governor to sign it to put the measure on the November 2026 ballot. SB 42 doesn’t impose public financing – it gives voters the power to choose it.

• Public financing amplifies the voices of small donors and everyday voters,
• It lowers barriers to running for office, helping build a more diverse and representative democracy.
• It restores trust by reducing the stranglehold of wealthy special interests on our political system.

The League has fought for decades to curb big money’s grip on politics and restore equity, transparency, and accountability. SB 42 is our next crucial step—and it needs your voice.

We can’t afford to wait. Help us return power to voters – where it belongs.