The 2024 election reminds us that, despite our differences, we’re more united than divided. Sure, not everyone is thrilled with every outcome, but our choices show that we’re ready to move forward. California voters took strong, practical stances on health care, minimum wage, fair representation and more. This election proved that we can come together on what matters most.

Starting with a major win, Proposition 35 passed with 67% approval, ensuring permanent funding for Medi-Cal through the Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax. This provides a stable revenue source for Medi-Cal recipients without adding costs to individual taxpayers. For hospitals and health care providers, it means they can continue offering essential services to millions across California. This kind of stability in health care is a significant advantage for businesses, as it helps keep our workforce healthy and communities well-supported.

Impactful measures

Equally impactful were Measures LL and DD, which saw strong support at 74% and 73% respectively. These measures establish independent redistricting commissions for LAUSD and the City of Los Angeles, removing political influence from the process of drawing district lines. With impartial commissions now responsible, the goal is to ensure fair representation that genuinely reflects our communities, not just the interests of politicians. For businesses, this brings the consistency and fairness in governance that’s crucial to a stable operating environment.

Housing was another area where voters pumped the brakes. Proposition 33, which proposed expanding local rent control, was rejected by 62%. This is the third time voters have turned down this proposal, showing that Californians are cautious about sweeping rent control policies that could reduce the housing supply and create unintended challenges for both renters and landlords. We need real, reasonable housing solutions, and voters clearly understood that Prop 33 wasn’t it.

Minimum wage

The failure of Proposition 32, which would’ve raised the minimum wage to $18 by 2025, is a positive outcome for businesses and workers. With 52% of voters saying no, this result offers some breathing room for businesses facing rising costs.

It’s also a strong message to the L.A. City Council, which is considering a $30 minimum wage for hospitality and airport workers. Voters are signaling caution around rapid wage hikes that impact business viability and drive up prices for everyone in an already high-cost environment. Wage increases aren’t without costs – the expense ultimately falls on the consumer. L.A. City Council should take note and work toward a balanced approach that considers small businesses, vendors and the financial realities of running a business in Los Angeles.

Voters also wisely rejected Proposition 5, which would have lowered the threshold for passing local taxes for housing and infrastructure projects from two-thirds to 55%. With 56% voting against it, Californians made it clear that they value broad support before imposing new taxes. For businesses, keeping the higher threshold protects them from sudden tax hikes that hit their bottom line and disrupt consumer spending. This decision underscores the need for a cautious, community-focused approach to tax measures, especially when language is vague and promises are uncertain.

Not all business friendly

Yet, not all results aligned with the interests of the business community. Measure A passed with 56% approval, adding a half-cent sales tax in L.A. County to fund affordable housing and homelessness prevention. Addressing homelessness is undoubtedly crucial, but this tax places added pressure on businesses and consumers with little evidence of meaningful progress.

Past measures like Measure H promised results but haven’t delivered. California has already spent $24 billion over the last several years, and the problem has only worsened. This measure feels like a forever tax on residents and businesses, funding an endless cycle rather than real solutions.

Focus on ‘practical, sustainable policies’

One other takeaway from this election: the progressive movement in Los Angeles might have hit a plateau. One of the two Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidates for L.A. City Council lost, suggesting voters are beginning to think twice about specific agendas at City Hall. Residents and businesses alike are concerned that policies are moving too far left, too fast, creating more instability than progress. Running a business in L.A. has gotten harsher – costs are up, regulations are more complex and the challenges are real. Voters seem to be signaling a need for practical, sustainable policies that focus on stability and growth, not ideological experiments.

The bottom line? This election shows Californians want balanced, common-sense solutions that address real needs without ignoring economic realities. Now, it’s on us – businesses, residents, and policymakers – to ensure these decisions strengthen California’s future. By working together, we can build a resilient, prosperous community, state and country that works for everyone.

Stuart Waldman is president of the Valley Industry & Commerce Association, a business advocacy organization based in Van Nuys that represents employers in the San Fernando Valley area at the local, state and federal levels of government.