Proposition 37 Taxes

How about a new tax on fast-food burgers and fries to pay for obesity treatment? Or a fee on aspirin to finance poison control centers? A levy on cell phones to study the health effects of radio waves? The tobacco, oil and alcoholic beverage sponsors of Proposition 37 on the Nov. 7 ballot say such new levies await Californians unless their "stop hidden taxes" initiative is approved. Baloney, say opponents of the initiative, who include environmental protection, health and labor activists.

How about a new tax on fast-food burgers and fries to pay for obesity treatment? Or a fee on aspirin to finance poison control centers? A levy on cell phones to study the health effects of radio waves? The tobacco, oil and alcoholic beverage sponsors of Proposition 37 on the Nov. 7 ballot say such new levies await Californians unless their "stop hidden taxes" initiative is approved. Baloney, say opponents of the initiative, who include environmental protection, health and labor activists.

The Times endorses selectively, on a case- by-case basis. Here is a summary of Times recommendations in today's elections. Statewide Propositions Proposition 32 (Veterans' Bond Act) YES. Proposition 33 (Legislative Retirement) YES. Proposition 34 (Campaign Contributions) NO. Proposition 35 (Public Works Projects) YES. Proposition 36 (Drug Treatment Diversion) NO. Proposition 37 (Fees, Taxes) NO. Proposition 38 (School Vouchers) NO. Proposition 39 (55% Local Vote for School Bonds) YES.