Newsom backs Prop 38 to fund California immunology research

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has endorsed Proposition 38, a ballot measure that would direct funding to immunology research, clinical trials and a new nonprofit institute. Supporters say the initiative would protect research jobs, offset federal cuts and keep breakthrough treatments within reach for California patients.

Why it matters: - Proposition 38 is pitched as a direct response to Trump administration cuts to medical research. - Supporters say the measure would help preserve research jobs in California and keep the state competitive in developing new immunology treatments. - The initiative could affect how quickly patients across California gain access to new therapies and clinical trials.

What happened: - California Gov. Gavin Newsom endorsed Prop 38, the Immunology Medical Research & Cures Initiative. - The endorsement was announced by YES on Prop 38 on Oct. 14, 2026. - Newsom said Prop 38 would support life-saving medical research at California universities and research institutions while countering federal cuts. - Supporters are urging Californians to vote yes in the upcoming election.

The details: - Prop 38 would create a statewide network for medical research funding. - Half of the funds would go to competitive grants for California universities and nonprofit research institutions. - The other half would support a nonprofit immunology institute affiliated with the University of California. - The institute is intended to connect scientists, technology, laboratories, patients and clinical trials. - The measure requires grantees to collaborate so discoveries, expertise and best practices are shared across institutions. - Supporters say Trump administration cuts have halted at least 160 active clinical trials nationwide. - Prop 38 is designed to offset its costs through licensing revenue. - Ten percent of all proceeds from the licensing of immunotherapies would be returned to California to cover the measure’s total costs, including interest. - Any cure or immunotherapy developed under the measure would be provided to California patients at a 20% discount below the national average. - The measure includes a 2% cap on state administrative expenses. - Prop 38 requires public disclosure of spending and independent financial audits. - For-profit corporations would not be eligible for grant funding. - More than 70 patient advocacy, medical and research organizations back the measure. - More information, including a coalition list and supporter statements, is available at the campaign website. - The campaign also maintains social channels on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X and Substack.

Between the lines: - The measure is framed as both a research-funding tool and a political response to federal policy. - By pairing grants with a dedicated institute, Prop 38 is designed to keep research, commercialization and patient access tied together inside California. - The accountability provisions suggest supporters want to address concerns about cost control and transparency upfront.

What's next: - The campaign will continue building support ahead of the election. - If voters approve Prop 38, California would begin channeling funds through the grant program and the proposed nonprofit institute. - Supporters say the measure would expand research capacity while giving California patients discounted access to resulting treatments.