The UC-sponsored California scientific research bond is headed to the March 2028 ballot

On September 30, 2026, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 895, the California Science and Health Research Bond Act, making it the final bill he will act on as governor. The law will allow California voters to consider a $7.5 billion investment in scientific research in the March 2028 election. If approved by voters, the UC-sponsored legislation, authored by state Sen. Scott Wiener, will address some of California’s most pressing health, environmental and technological challenges.

The power of our voices and our community

Earlier this year, the UC Community — students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners — rallied support for SB 895 amid unprecedented threats to federal research funding. This milestone highlights the impact of the UC community and our commitment to advancing research in California.

“This is a major achievement, made possible by an extraordinary coalition of people who understand the importance of investing in scientific research,” said UC President James B. Milliken. “The University of California’s research enterprise improves lives, creates opportunity, and drives innovation and economic growth across our state and the entire nation. We are grateful to Gov. Newsom, Sen. Wiener, members of the legislature, and our partners at UAW for their leadership and collaboration on this issue. I also want to thank the thousands of UC faculty, staff, students, researchers, alumni, and supporters who made their voices heard and helped us achieve this important milestone.”

Supporting invaluable UC research

This development comes at a critical moment for UC, which is facing one of the most significant disruptions to its research enterprise in its 158-year history. The university relies on external research funding to advance life-changing medical treatments, fuel technological innovations and leading industries, and address some of California’s most pressing challenges—from climate change to population growth. And it pays off: In just the past year, the university has generated $82 billion in economic impact.

While the bond cannot replace the federal research funding that is essential to the university’s research enterprise, if approved by voters, it will provide a new, dedicated revenue source for scientific research and infrastructure that will drive the economy and benefit people and communities across California.

Fighting for research doesn’t stop here

The university still needs your help! Federally funded research drives breakthroughs that make our lives better. From 2010-2019, 99% of FDA-approved drugs were developed with federal funding — and without sustained federal funding, these discoveries are at risk.

Join the UC Advocacy Network in telling Congress to invest in the research that saves lives, grows our economy and makes our lives better.