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California Union Proposes Billionaire Tax for Healthcare Funding

11/19/2025

Center

Union Proposes Wealth Tax

Service Employees International Union–United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) proposes a one-time wealth tax on billionaires to raise $100 billion for healthcare and education.
The proposal offsets anticipated healthcare funding cuts from federal policy changes, and Governor Gavin Newsom opposes similar wealth tax efforts.
Critics say plan could drive wealthy residents to move out of California.
Signature collection would begin in early 2026, needing about 875,000 signatures for the November ballot.

Right

Newsom Rejects Wealth Tax

California Governor Gavin Newsom opposes a proposed wealth tax, calling it an economic disaster for the state.
Critics warn it could drive billionaires away and reduce state revenue, citing capital flight risks.
A Washington Post editorial labels the plan "economic self-sabotage."
Newsom's stance is a strategic move to maintain leadership in the Democratic Party.
The proposal targets a small fraction of the population but could deter future California ventures.

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Union Proposes Wealth Tax

Service Employees International Union–United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) proposes a one-time wealth tax on billionaires to raise $100 billion for healthcare and education.
The proposal offsets anticipated healthcare funding cuts from federal policy changes, and Governor Gavin Newsom opposes similar wealth tax efforts.
Critics say plan could drive wealthy residents to move out of California.
Signature collection would begin in early 2026, needing about 875,000 signatures for the November ballot.

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