2020 Election Tracker: All The State Ballot Healthcare Initiatives – Forbes

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Citizens from some U.S. states will be voting on November 3rd on matters that could directly affect healthcare in their regions. From abortion rights to medical marijuana, here are the measures on the ballots and the results as they roll in.

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Only nine states have measures on the ballot related to healthcare this year.

Three states are voting on a tax increase on tobacco products to fund government healthcare programs.

Two states are voting on whether or not to legalize marijuana for medical purposes (other states are voting to legalize marijuana more broadly, but since that isnt explicitly healthcare related it isnt covered here).

Other issues that the voters can decide on include abortion access, comprehensive sex education in schools, and government funds for stem cell research.

Proposition 14: Stem Cell Research

This proposition would authorize $5.5 billion in bonds for stem cell research in the state. Proponents point to the many advances of healthcare treatments from Californias stem cell research, while opponents think that there are other things the government could be using money on during the pandemic.

Result:

Proposition 23: Dialysis Clinics

Passing this proposition means that kidney dialysis clinics must have a doctor on site while patients are treated. Supporters say this will improve dialysis safety, while opponents argue that the measure would increase costs and cause some clinics to close.

Result:

Prop 115: Prohibits Abortion After 22 Weeks

This measure would ban abortion after 22 weeks of gestation. Colorado is one of the few states where there are no time restrictions on abortions. Supporters say that 22 weeks is a reasonable limit, while opponents say that a womans right to choose should not be restricted and that late-term abortions are usually for medical reasons.

Result:

Prop 118: Paid Medical Leave

This would establish a paid medical and family leave program for 12 to 16 weeks in the state. Supporters say this would allow employees to take time off work after childbirth or to care for a sick relative. Opponents say that the bill would place a financial burden on both employers and employees.

Result:

Prop EE: Tobacco Tax For Health & Education

This measure would increase taxes on tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes. Revenues would support state health and education programs. Supporters say that this will help curb teenage vaping and fund needed programs. Opponents point to the financial impact on low-income tobacco users, and argue e-cigarettes should not be taxed the same because some people use them to quit smoking.

Result:

Amendment 1: No Constitutional Right To Abortion

This constitutional amendment will add a term stating: Nothing in this constitution shall be construed to secure or protect a right to abortion or require the funding of abortion." Supporters say that this will allow voters, rather than courts, to decide on abortion rights. Opponents say that this could restrict abortion access and funding in the state.

Result:

Ballot Measure 1: Legalizing Medical Marijuana

Voters will decide on two measures that will allow qualified patients to use marijuana legally in a medical capacity. One allows patients with certain conditions to use medical marijuana, while the other restricts it to only terminally ill patients. Supporters say that this is an important treatment option for critically ill patients, while opponents say that marijuana is still illegal under federal law and this would be a burden for law enforcement.

Result:

Question 814: Tobacco Settlement To Fund Medicaid

This provision would move more money received from tobacco company settlements to fund state Medicaid expansion, and away from smoking prevention programs. Supporters say that this measure would help fund the states recently-approved Medicaid expansion, while opponents argue that this will hamper tobacco-caused cancer prevention.

Result:

Measure 108: Increase Tobacco Taxes For Healthcare Programs

This measure would increase taxes on tobacco products and e-cigarettes, with revenues going to fund state healthcare programs. Supporters say that this will help pay for the states Medicare expansion and help prevent smoking and vaping. Opponents say that e-cigarettes are used for smoking cessation and the measure will drive commerce out of the state.

Result:

Measure 26: Legalizing Medical Marijuana

This would establish a legal medical marijuana program for residents with debilitating medical conditions. Supporters say that this will help patients with serious health conditions, while opponents say that marijuana is a non-FDA approved drug that could be dangerous. Note: A different measure in South Dakota will determine whether the state should approve the use of recreational marijuana.

Result:

Amendment G: Tax Revenue To Support People With Disabilities

This amendment would dictate that income and property taxes should fund programs for children and adults with disabilities. Supporters say this would ensure support for children and other individuals with disabilities. Opponents say that this amendment would take away money that is earmarked for public education.

Result:

Referendum 90: Sex Education In Public Schools

This would support a state Senate bill requiring public schools to teach comprehensive sex education to all students unless excused by parents. Supporters say that this bill will promote medically accurate and age-appropriate education about sexual health, domestic violence and consent in schools. Opponents say that children should not be exposed to this subject matter in school and parents should ultimately decide education on these topics..

Result:

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2020 Election Tracker: All The State Ballot Healthcare Initiatives - Forbes

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