Proposition 98

When you go to the polls on June 3rd you should know a little bit about Proposition 98, whether you decide to vote for it or against it.

Several ads have appeared on TV in support of 98. They tell true stories about people who have been forced to sell their homes under threat of eminent domain. At first this may sound like some kind of unjust, royal law from medieval times. However, the government can only buy your property, they cannot simply force you off, and only for civic development purposes. The law also states that an owner must be paid market value and there is an appeals process so that an owner may plead their case to keep their property before a judge.

An alternative newspaper in San Francisco has claimed that the majority of 98's support comes from landlords which would explain why it would also end rent control statewide.

Some claim that Proposition 98 goes too far and have pointed to Proposition 99, also on the ballot June 3rd as a worthy alternative. 99 would also regulate eminent domain and would not phase out rent control. However, it does not go as far as 98 does in protecting businesses, rentals, farms and places of worship.

It may be hard to decide what you think is right when you're at the booth in a couple of weeks, but remember that the information to make important decisions is always available and that the power to vote makes it your decision.