On November 3, Californians made their voices heard, soundly rejecting a proposition that would have greatly reduced access to healthcare. Proposition 44, which is currently sitting at less than 18% support from voters, would have forced community health centers to make impossible choices: cut critical infrastructure, eliminate programs, or close their doors entirely.
Recognizing the danger, WellSpace Health joined community health centers across California to educate voters and elevate the voices of those who would be most impacted. Together, we shared the stories of our dedicated healthcare workers and the patients and communities who depend on us, and the essential role community health centers play in ensuring access to comprehensive, high-quality care.
Defeating Proposition 44 was not guaranteed. In fact, at the beginning it was quite the opposite. Polls showed 60% of voters were in support. But when we started telling our story and how Proposition 44 would hurt the patients we serve, Californians listened. They saw those we serve and the comprehensive care we provide them every day.
We thank our local leaders and our neighbors who stood by community health centers and understood the importance of protecting access to comprehensive care. But our work is not over. We must continue to tackle the challenges presented by H.R. 1, especially as more Californians find themselves uninsured. We look forward to working with you on how we can face those challenges head on.