Santa Clara County officials are preparing to propose a five-eighths cent sales tax increase to voters to mitigate federal cuts impacting public hospital patients. A special Board of Supervisors meeting is projected for August 7, aiming to finalize the ballot question by the August 8 deadline for the November 4 election. Valley Health Foundation is actively fundraising, having secured over $1 million in pledges. The proposed general sales tax only requires a simple majority, while a special sales tax demands a two-thirds majority for passage. The county faces a troubling budget shortfall exceeding $1 billion, threatening essential health services.
"H.R. 1 has cut a seismic tear into our social safety net - especially our public hospital and health care system," County Executive James Williams told San José Spotlight.
"The county is facing more than a $1 billion budget shortfall, putting at risk critical care that keeps our community healthy and safe.
Sources said the tax measure would make a meaningful difference if approved, but the county is under pressure due to a tight deadline before the November election.
Residents have also reported being polled on their position for a tax measure. County officials said they're aware of the poll, but denied paying for it.
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