SB 895: California Science and Health Research Bond Act

California’s research enterprise is at a critical juncture. Federal funding disruptions are threatening the scientific work that fuels breakthroughs in health care, climate solutions, artificial intelligence, national security and economic innovation across the state. UC President James B. Milliken has announced that the University is sponsoring state Senator Scott Wiener’s SB 895, bipartisan legislation that would place a $23 billion bond to fund scientific research across California on the November 2026 ballot. If passed by voters, the measure would be a critical step in preserving research that is central to protecting jobs, sustaining lifesaving medical advancements, supporting the health of communities across the state and maintaining California’s global leadership in innovation.

“University research has been under sustained attack over the past year,” said UC President James B. Milliken. “This bill aims to protect the remarkable advances benefiting millions of Californians now and in the future. We are proud to cosponsor this bill and will always stand up for science.”

The measure would establish the California Foundation for Science and Health Research to fund competitive grants, low-interest loans and research facilities focused on urgent statewide priorities. 

What SB 895 Would Do:

• Establish the California Foundation for Science and Health Research within the Government Operations Agency 
• Fund competitive grants and loans for public and private research universities, institutes and organizations 
• Support construction, operation and maintenance of research facilities 
• Prioritize research that has experienced federal funding cuts 
• Require peer review and public oversight of all funded research

Read the UC press release.