California lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 895, a proposal that would place a $23 billion bond on the November 2026 ballot to fund scientific research, according to an April 15 announcement. The bill is co-sponsored by the University of California and aims to provide new funding opportunities for research across the state.
The measure is seen as critical in maintaining California’s leadership in innovation and supporting industries such as biotechnology, agriculture, clean energy, computing, and semiconductors. These sectors rely heavily on scientific research conducted within the state, often at University of California campuses.
Senate Bill 895 establishes the California Foundation for Science and Health Research. This foundation would offer competitive grants, low-interest loans, and modernized facilities targeting urgent statewide priorities. The bill has bipartisan support and is also co-sponsored by United Autoworkers Region 6 and the Union of American Physicians and Dentists.
The University of California said its research has led to major health advancements including the first flu vaccine, treatments for premature babies’ breathing issues, discoveries about cholesterol’s role in heart disease, modern gene editing techniques, and other breakthroughs that save millions of lives each year. UC employs more than 266,800 Californians across various roles connected to its research enterprise.
With uncertainty around federal funding from agencies like NIH (National Institutes of Health) and NSF (National Science Foundation), supporters say SB 895 will help sustain momentum in life-saving research at UC institutions. The university highlights that undergraduate students benefit from hands-on experience in labs that train future scientists and healthcare professionals.
Supporters encourage Californians to contact their lawmakers about prioritizing science funding or discuss with their communities why supporting scientific research matters.
