Upcoming Election: The Golden Impact of Prop 4

Last November, California voters helped win a huge victory for our planet by overwhelmingly passing Proposition 4, the statewide $10 billion climate bond. The passing of Prop 4 was an investment for the lives of future generations, and I am proud to have been part of the grassroots effort to make it happen. My work campaigning and advocating for this measure alongside local conservancy partners, Assembly Members Diane Papan and Damon Connolly, and the Yes on Prop 4 campaign was part of the reason I started this organization.

Prop 4 is a comprehensive climate solution. It dedicates funds to address California’s most severe climate risks: wildfires, drought, extreme heat, and flooding. The measure sets a new standard for climate equity by legally mandating that at least 40% of its funding benefits disadvantaged, severely disadvantaged, and vulnerable communities. This clause ensures that the communities most impacted by climate change are the first to receive support.

Since its passing, the bond has been rapidly put into action. Governor Newsom and Legislature have already authorized over $3.3 billion in initial funding, with a focus on wildfire prevention and forest resilience, which is extremely important given our recent devastating fire seasons. Furthermore, dozens of projects, including tribally led initiatives and workforce development programs, are under review or already under contract.

For me, the $765 million allocated to the State Coastal Conservancy is particularly meaningful. This funding is directly benefiting important projects aimed at strengthening shorelines in the Bay Area, with a strong emphasis on nature-based adaptation. Functionally, these investments have restored coastal wetlands and implemented "living shorelines," directly protecting our infrastructure and communities from sea-level rise and coastal flooding.

Prop 4’s momentum and efficacy shows that collaborative policy advocacy truly works. It’s an example of what we can achieve when we unite for a common goal, and it confirms the importance of organizations like Keep California Green and Golden in translating legislative victories into real ecological change. The future of our state is now that much more secure, sustainable, and golden. Please register to vote and make a change!