Borenstein argues for upfront lifetime cost disclosures of spending measures to aid voter decision-making. Some readers appreciate this perspective, while others oppose it. The lack of immediate costs in voting materials may lead to increased support for such measures. AB 699 suggests omitting cost disclosures in favor of lengthy Voter Guides, raising concerns about transparency and informed voting. The negative implications for voter engagement and understanding are notable.
Eugene Ely sides with those not wanting a full disclosure of the lifetime cost of all spending measures. Daniel Borenstein upheld every journalistic standard by arguing for an up-front lifetime cost disclosure of all spending measures in the 75-word summary for each measure.
It's always interesting to read how people interpret articles differently. I was most appreciative of Daniel Borenstein's example of how voter ballots can indeed provide voters with pertinent information they need to make decisions on how their hard-earned money is collected and spent.
When price tags are immediately available, there are fewer voters (5-15%) likely to vote in favor of the measure.
Democrats move ahead to pass AB 699, which basically says that the ballot language doesn't have to include such costs and can instead refer voters to the hefty, verbose Voter Guide, all under the guise of helping voters navigate their ballots.
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