Ballot Summary
Would have changed the California Constitution to prohibit abortion for an unemancipated minor until 48 hours after a physician notifies the minor’s parent, legal guardian, or, in limited cases, substitute adult relative. Provided an exception for medical emergency or parental waiver. Fiscal Impact: Potential unknown net state costs of several million dollars annually for health and social services programs, court administration, and state health agency administration combined.
Outcome
Prop. 4 failed by a margin of 48 to 52 percent. Had it passed, it would have barred most minors from having abortions until a parent was notified and a 48-hour waiting period had taken place. Theses electoral outcomes are very similar to the two previous parental notification ballot measures. In 2005, Prop. 73 was defeated by a margin of 47.4 to 52.6 percent. The following year, Prop. 85 failed by a margin of 45.9 to 54.1 percent.
HealthVote Extras
- Learn about the Ballot Measure Process in California
- Prop. 4 Fact Sheet (PDF)
- Bixby Center Parental Notification Brief (PDF)
Other Resources
Visit the no-spin zone for the who, what, and why of this proposition.
Review the official ballot summary, arguments, and rebuttals in an easy-to-read format.
Read an in-depth article on the background and potential impact of the proposition.
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View factual analysis of campaign ads, as well as estimated expenditures statewide and by market.
Read the news articles, editorials, and other media coverage.
Monitor public opinion through the latest statewide, non-partisan polls.
Sound familiar? Get information here on related past propositions.
