Proposition 13
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In November, 1984, Ronald Reagan achieved a landslide electoral victory, winning 49 of 50 states. He received 59.2% of the popular vote, to Walter Mondale’s 40.8%. This margin of victory was considered to provide a “mandate” for a continuation and expansion of Reagan’s policies.
In June, 1989, 62.3% of the voters of South Pasadena supported Proposition A, a measure to impose a modest parcel tax for the support of the local schools. However, this mandate was rejected because of an especially stringent clause of Proposition 13 requiring a two-thirds majority for passage of any new tax. But, the realities are, if Ronald Reagan couldn’t get 60% of the vote in 1984, a requirement for 66.7% is unrealistic.
Interestingly, Proposition 13 did not need a two-thirds majority for its passage. One could debate the merits of many aspects of Proposition 13, but certainly the two-thirds requirement is excessive, and must be replaced.
DENNIS A. DOUGHERTY
South Pasadena
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