L.A. voters consider sales tax hike for fire department funding and arbitration for public safety labor talks

Los Angeles city voters will decide on Measure FD, which proposes a 0.5% increase in the retail sales tax to fund the city Fire Department. According to the Los Angeles Times, the hike would raise approximately $345 million annually, increasing the sales tax rate from 10.25% to 10.75%. The measure is supported by the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112, citing understaffing and under-resourcing of the department due to decades of neglect.

Opponents, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, argue that Measure FD would be the third sales tax increase since 2024, estimating the cost at $86 per person and $345 for a family of four annually. This follows previous county tax hikes for homelessness and healthcare.

Separately, Los Angeles County voters will consider Measure A, a charter amendment that would require binding arbitration if contract negotiations between the county and unions representing sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, lifeguards, and other public safety workers reach an impasse. This would replace the current system where county supervisors impose a final offer, as public safety workers are legally barred from striking.

Under Measure A, if negotiations stall, a three-member arbitration panel would be formed, with each side selecting one member and jointly choosing a third. If they cannot agree, a state entity would provide a list of arbitrators. The panel would hold hearings and issue a binding decision made public.