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
Listen ad-free on Castria