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Sept. 23: What To Know About A Voter Plan To Tax California Billionaires

Sep 23, 2026 · 15m

Summary

This episode examines California’s Proposition 40, a proposed one-time 5% wealth tax on billionaires to fund healthcare and offset federal cuts. Guest Chris Haney explains the distinction between wealth and income, noting the tax is unprecedented at the state level. The discussion also covers opposing measures, Propositions 41 and 42, which aim to block or invalidate the wealth tax. Current polls show voters are nearly evenly split among the three measures, highlighting significant confusion and a tight race ahead of the election.

Topics discussed

Sponsor and show introduction Preview of Proposition 40 wealth tax story Yosemite helicopter crash pilot identifications Wildfire death toll update California truck drivers consider strike over diesel prices Measles vaccination rates falling in San Joaquin Valley Valley grape growers struggle with low wine sales KVPR community support appeal Introduction to Proposition 40 and its goals Interview: Estimated revenue and funding allocation Explaining the difference between wealth and income tax Precedents for wealth taxes in other countries Concerns about billionaire migration and tax avoidance Debunking opponent arguments and scare tactics Overview of counter-propositions 41 and 42 Current polling data for Props 40, 41, and 42 Closing remarks and credits Promo for 'Where Is Austin Tice' podcast
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