Bass says Measure A will help address homelessness

As a source of revenue for homelessness is set to expire in 2027, Mayor Karen Bass this week called on voters to approve a new measure that is estimated to bring in more than $1 billion annually to address the crisis.
With two weeks away until the Nov. 5 election, county residents are being asked whether to repeal Measure H, a quarter-cent tax approved in 2017, and replace it with Measure A, a proposed half-cent tax that would generate funds for efforts to reduce homelessness in the region.
If approved, Measure A would have no sunset date, but could be rescinded if voters decide to do so. Additionally, proponents say there would be provisions to bolster transparency with audits and strict oversight as to how the funding is being used.
During a morning news conference at the top of a five-story, 51-unit apartment complex for formerly unhoused seniors and veterans, Mayor Bass warned voters that if Measure A is not approved the region would lose “critical funding” for homelessness, shelter services and housing.
The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association has opposed Measure A, citing concerns it would double the temporary sales tax for homelessness programs and make it permanent. Other critics say that there needs to be a lot more oversight as to how money would be used.
Bass assured that written into the measure are “clear outcomes and expectations.”
“Money will be taken away from programs that do not deliver results,” Bass said. “I want to make it clear that I mean business, and Measure A means business.”
“Don’t wait for Election Day. Election Day has already started. Everyone should have their ballot by now. Fill it out immediately and vote yes on Measure A,” Bass added.
L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna joined the mayor to support the proposed measure, as well as leaders from the Los Angeles Business Council, Central City Association and the Hospital Association of Southern California.
“We’re here to continue to make sure that our law enforcement officers, our first responders, continue to have options to help people dealing with homelessness, mental health and addiction, so it doesn’t lead to possible incarceration,” Luna said.
He described Measure A as a means to “helping our neighbors, and keeping our neighborhoods safe.”