MLK Community Healthcare is committed to providing clear, accurate information about issues that may affect our patients, staff and the communities we serve.
Measure ER is a Los Angeles County ballot initiative that will appear on the June 2, 2026 election ballot. This page provides an overview of the measure and what it could mean for healthcare access in South Los Angeles.
Measure ER is a proposed temporary ½-cent (0.5%) increase in the Los Angeles County sales tax for five years.
If approved by voters, the measure is estimated to generate approximately $1 billion per year to support healthcare and other essential services across the county.
Key details:
The measure also includes independent oversight and public reporting on how funds are used.
Recent federal policy changes will reduce federal funding for Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) and other health programs.
As a result:
Measure ER is an important approach local leaders are supporting to help mitigate these challenges and protect access to care.
If passed, Measure ER funding will support:
The goal is to help sustain healthcare services and access across Los Angeles County in the face of reduced federal funding.
Nearly 8 in 10 patients at MLK Community Healthcare rely on Medicaid.
If Measure ER passes:
We encourage everyone to review information from official sources and participate in the voting process.
Key dates:
Official resources:
Measure ER Fact Sheet: Learn more
Los Angeles County Registrar: www.lavote.gov
California Secretary of State: www.sos.ca.gov/elections
Recent coverage highlights broader healthcare funding challenges affecting hospitals and communities in L.A. County and beyond.
M.L.K. Hospital ‘can’t cut enough to absorb’ Medicaid $ loss
MLK Community Healthcare CEO Dr. Elaine Batchlor spoke with NPR about how federal Medicaid funding changes are expected to impact safety-net hospitals like MLKCH, which serve a high proportion of low-income patients in South Los Angeles.
When the G.O.P. Medicaid Cuts Arrive, These Hospitals Will Be Hit Hardest
The New York Times highlights how federal Medicaid policy changes may disproportionately affect safety-net hospitals nationwide, including those serving communities like South Los Angeles.