Proposition 32 wants to prohibit unions, corporations and government contractors from using payroll deductions for political purposes and also from contributing directly or indirectly to any candidate or candidate controlled committee.

Although under limited circumstances, employers may withhold money from an employee’s paycheck. The withheld funds are called “payroll deductions.” Some common payroll deductions include deductions for Social Security, income taxes, medical plans, and voluntary charitable contributions. 

A vote of yes on proposition 32 means that unions and corporations would no longer be able to use money deducted from an employee’s paycheck for political purposes.

A vote of no on proposition 32 will make no change to the current law regulating the ability of unions and corporations to use money deducted from an employee’s paycheck for political purposes. Unions, corporations and government contractors will continue to be restricted by the current political finance laws.

Proponents for Prop 32 say that it will ensure that California workers have the right to decide how to spend the money they earn. Those opposed say that the money spent on political campaigns has caused a mistrust in the political campaign system, and that many of those who are supporting proposition 32 are trying to use that mistrust to take worker’s money out of politics.

The top group for Yes on 32 is the Democrats for Education Reform and the California Republican Party. The League of Women Voters and the California Democratic Party are leading the charge for No on 32.