September 3, 2026 – San Diego, CA – San Diego Foundation (SDF) and community partners today launched a countywide voter education program to help San Diegans understand Measure B, the San Diego County Health & Safety Act, before the Nov. 3 election.

A citizen’s initiative, Measure B asks voters to consider a countywide half-cent sales tax that would create a new local funding source for healthcare, childcare, nutrition and food security, Tijuana River environmental mitigation and public safety.

If approved, Measure B is estimated to generate $400 to $450 million annually for those services. The measure comes as San Diego County faces significant fiscal uncertainty, with federal funding cuts and changes expected to contribute to an estimated $300 million shortfall for San Diego County.

“San Diego Foundation has worked alongside donors, government, nonprofit partners and communities on these issues for decades,” said Mark Stuart, president and CEO of San Diego Foundation. “We believe informed communities are stronger communities, and clear, factual information helps San Diegans make informed decisions.”

The nonpartisan voter education program features SDFoundation.org/MeasureB, a dedicated website about Measure B, community outreach and educational resources about the measure. The website provides information about what Measure B would do, how revenue would be allocated, proposed accountability and oversight provisions, and frequently asked questions.

Community partners in the voter education program include:

  • The Chicano Federation
  • Child Development Associates
  • MAAC
  • San Diego LGBT Community Center
  • Lifeline Community Services

About Measure B

If approved with a majority of votes, revenue generated from Measure B would be allocated as follows:

  • 60% for healthcare, childcare, food security and other services for children and families
  • 5% for Tijuana River sewage crisis cleanup and response
  • 16% for public safety, wildfire prevention and emergency response
  • Up to 1.5% of revenue for administration and oversight

The proposed half-cent sales tax would apply to purchases already subject to California sales tax, including items such as electronics, clothing and furniture. Purchases not affected include most groceries, prescription medicines, rent and utilities.

Voters can learn more about Measure B at SDFoundation.org/MeasureB and SDVote.com for official election and voting information.

About San Diego Foundation

San Diego Foundation believes in just, equitable and resilient communities where every San Diegan can prosper, thrive and feel like they belong. We partner with donors, nonprofits and regional leaders to co-create solutions that respond to community needs and strengthen San Diego. Since 1975, SDF has granted more than $2 billion to nonprofits to improve quality of life in San Diego County and beyond. Learn more at SDFoundation.org.

Media Contact

Nancy Ives Schroeder
619-540-3751
[email protected]