Measure E: The Mulligan

We’re continuing our Your November Ballot, Explained series with a closer look at Los Angeles County’s Measure E – and why voters are being asked to revisit issues addressed by two earlier ballot measures.

A Little Background

To understand Measure E, it helps to look back at two earlier measures. In 2020, voters approved Measure J, which called for the County to set aside 10% of its annual unrestricted revenue for community programs and alternatives to incarceration. However, the County never formally added the required language to its Charter.

Then came Measure G in 2024. Voters approved changes that created an independent County Ethics Commission and a new elected County Executive position, starting in 2028. But Measure G also unintentionally eliminated Measure J’s funding requirement. On top of that, the County’s Governance Reform Task Force found that voters didn't give the Ethics Commission the level of independence they originally approved.

So Now What?

Measure E aims to fix both issues. It would give the Ethics Commission more independence and authority, set an initial budget of nearly $14 million, and restore Measure J’s requirement to dedicate 10% of unrestricted revenue to community programs.

Supporters say the measure would strengthen accountability and restore funding for community programs. Critics worry that locking in these funding commitments could make it harder for the Board of Supervisors to adjust spending as the County’s finances and priorities change.

The County gets a do-over. Voters get the last word.

Coming up next: the City's ballot...and the maze of Charter Reform.