Los Angeles Fire Department funding proposal gains early support

The measure requires a simple majority to pass, unlike some tax increases which necessitate a two-thirds vote. Further ballots, including those cast on Election Day, will be tallied, with final results anticipated by November 27.

If approved, the sales tax rate would rise from 10.25% to 10.75%, generating approximately $345 million annually for the Los Angeles Fire Department. Currently, the department, which operates on a nearly $1 billion budget, relies heavily on the city’s general fund.

Measure FD also mandates that the city maintain the Fire Department’s existing share of the general fund, preventing the redirection of new revenue to offset existing costs. The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112, the union representing the city’s firefighters, placed the measure on the ballot.

Union representatives state the funds would support additional firefighters and paramedics, updated fire stations, new equipment, and enhanced wildfire prevention efforts. Projections indicate the tax could support at least 30 new stations and a department expansion of roughly 1,400 personnel by 2050.

Supporters cite the January 2025 Palisades Fire, which resulted in significant property damage and loss of life, as justification for the measure. An LAFD report following the fire highlighted staffing limitations and equipment issues as hindering response capabilities. “Measure FD is the most important public safety decision this city has faced in a generation,” stated union President Doug Coates in October.

The Los Angeles Police Protective League initially opposed the measure, investing millions in advertising campaigns. President Ricky Mendoza expressed concerns about the tax’s lack of an expiration date and its potential impact on affordability for residents. This opposition sparked a contentious and costly dispute between the two major labor organizations.

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association also campaigned against the measure, estimating an average annual cost of $86 per person, or $345 for a family of four. They argued that the city should reallocate existing funds instead. Susan Shelley, the group’s vice president of communications, questioned the city’s ability to find $345 million through budget adjustments. Opponents also pointed out that this would be the third sales tax increase in Los Angeles within the past two years.