Healthcare Is On the Ballot

With the June primary election just three months away, Northeast Valley Health Corporation (NEVHC) is tracking key dates, candidates, and ballot initiatives that could significantly impact healthcare access in our communities. Primary elections are critical as they determine which candidates will be on the final November 2026 ballot. They may also include initiatives that, if approved, become law and directly affect our health system. One such initiative, Measure ER, proposes a funding mechanism to help address anticipated cuts to healthcare tied to federal policy changes, including H.R. 1.  

Preparing for the Primary  

Many items will be on the Primary ballot, including candidates and an important ballot initiative impacting community health centers (CHCs). Occasionally, there will also be a ballot initiative that becomes law at the state or local level. This year, voters in Los Angeles County will consider Measure ER, a proposed local funding measure aimed at supporting the healthcare safety net. The initiative would establish a temporary ½ cent sales tax for five years to fund County departments such as the Department of Health Services, Public Health, and the Department of Public Social Services.  

These funds are intended to support programs such as Medicaid outreach and enrollment, as well as help stabilize healthcare providers serving low-income communities. More importantly, the initiative will do the following: 

• Sustain operations for community clinics and hospitals. 

• Reduce workforce impacts in the health sector. 

• Maintain access to healthcare for millions of LA County residents. 

• Alleviate pressure on emergency rooms.  

The measure is being advanced by a coalition of healthcare and community organizations, including St. John Community Health. 

To learn more about the ballot initiative, visit https://www.yesoner.la/

What offices are on the ballot? 

Elections at the federal, state, and local levels are also taking place in 2026. Voters in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys will see candidates running for offices, including: 

• Governor of California 

• U.S. House of Representatives 

• California State Senate 

• California State Assembly 

• Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors 

• City offices, including Los Angeles and San Fernando 

It is important to review each candidate’s background, priorities, and positions on key issues. These factors can help inform your decision about who best represents your values and the needs of your community. 

Elections directly impact everyday issues such as education, transportation, and healthcare access. Staying informed and participating in elections is one of the most effective ways to support policies that protect and expand access to care. 

Make a plan to vote, stay informed, and help protect access to healthcare in our communities. 

Key Dates and Resources  

•  April 3, 2026 – Online Voter Information Guide will be available.  

• April 23 – May 12, 2026 – State and County election will mail Voter Information Guides 

• May 4, 2026 – Early voting sites open, and vote-by-mail ballots will be mailed 

• May 18, 2026 – Last day to register to vote for the primary election  

• May 19 – June 2, 2026 – Same-day registration available during this time, and voters can “conditionally” register to vote and fill out a provisional ballot. 

• June 2, 2026 – Primary Election Day 

For more information, visit sos.ca.gov or lavote.gov 

Make a plan to vote, stay informed, and help protect access to healthcare for our communities.

Written by Julie Leyba, Government & Community Relations Manager, NEVHC