2 1. Does SB 63 simply allow a regional transit sales tax to potentially be placed on a future ballot (in San Mateo and elsewhere)?
Yes. SB 63 authorizes the creation of a regional Transportation Revenue Measure District and allows for a regional sales tax measure to potentially be placed on the November 3, 2026 statewide ballot. San Mateo County is not automatically included and would need to affirmatively opt in , but the bill explicitly invites San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties to opt in by July 31, 2025. If San Mateo opts in, the tax measure would apply countywide and require voter approval.
2. Does SB 63 mandate that something be placed on the ballot, or could it be delayed or dropped like the BAFHA bond last year?
SB 63 does not mandate that a ballot measure must appear. Like BAHFA housing bond, SB 63 enables the legal and administrative framework, but whether a measure actually goes to the ballot in 2026 depends on stakeholder negotiations, funding decisions, and potential board action. It is entirely possible that the structure is created, but the measure is never placed before voters.
3. If no ballot measure is placed in 2026, does the Transportation Revenue Measure District dissolve?
The bill does not specify an automatic dissolution of the district if no ballot measure is placed. However, the functional purpose of the district is to administer the proposed tax measure. If the tax does not proceed, the district may remain dormant unless future legislation or board action directs otherwise.
4. Are there other costs or mandates that may concern the City of San Mateo? Potential concerns include:
If San Mateo County opts in, the City of San Mateo would be subject to the regional tax and the broader regional funding structure, which could raise local control and priority-setting questions. There is no requirement that funds raised be proportionally returned to cities or counties.
Although Caltrain is eligible for operational funds, the City would have no direct control over allocations.
Separately, the bill does not impose direct costs or mandates on the City. One minor consideration is that SB 63 allows San Mateo County to levy its own separate local transportation tax in 1/8% increments, which could influence future local tax discussions or voter fatigue.
One additional note here, is that by my read there are some inconsistencies in the bill with respect to San Mateo (and also Santa Clara counties opting in).
As drafted, SB 63 sets a July 31, 2025 opt-in deadline for San Mateo County, but the bill does not take effect until January 1, 2026—creating a timing conflict. In other words, the County would need to opt into an agency that doesn’t technically exist. I am not sure how this works in practice. To date, the County of San Mateo has not adopted a formal position. I am not sure what their interest is in supporting this measure.
DH
3 Dane Hutchings
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