University research is under attack, but California is fighting back.
This is a critical effort to sustain our world-changing research — research that fuels the fourth-largest economy in the world, generates lifesaving medical advancements, and supports the health of all California communities.
What is SB 895?
Lawmakers in Sacramento have introduced a bill to place a $23 billion bond on the November 2026 ballot that would give California voters the opportunity to vote on whether the state should fund scientific research.
Senate Bill 895, the California Science and Health Research Bond Act, is co-sponsored by the University of California and authored by state Senator Scott Wiener. It has garnered broad, bipartisan support and is also co-sponsored by United Autoworkers Region 6 and the Union of American Physicians and Dentists.
SB 895 establishes the California Foundation for Science and Health Research to fund competitive research grants, low-interest loans and modernized research facilities focused on urgent statewide priorities.
Why does scientific research matter to California?
It’s the foundation of innovation and a major driver of California’s economy. The industries that define the state — biotechnology, agriculture, clean energy, computing, semiconductors, and more — have grown out of scientific research conducted here in the Golden State, often at UC, supporting jobs, attracting investment, and fueling long-term economic growth.
It leads to life-saving cures. UC research has yielded blockbuster health advancements, including discoveries like the first flu vaccine, a treatment to help premature babies breathe, cholesterol’s role in heart disease, modern gene editing, and other health breakthroughs that save millions of lives each year.
It creates and preserves jobs. As California’s second-largest employer, UC employs more than 266,800 Californians. When we lose research funding, we lose the jobs that come with it, from researchers to medical professionals to student support to administrative and facilities roles.
Why does SB 895 matter to the University of California?
UC’s research leadership serves the world. UC is typically awarded more NIH and NSF funding than any other institution in the country. With continued uncertainty around funding at the federal level, this measure will help support momentum on critical, life-saving research and maintain UC’s leadership in global scholarship.
A strong research enterprise benefits students, faculty and staff. Defending California science directly translates to supporting UC’s faculty and other employees. It means ensuring UC students continue to have the opportunity to build their knowledge while taking part in the hands-on research experience that sets a UC education apart. At UC, undergraduate students are given opportunities to directly contribute to research that betters lives across California and the nation. UC’s labs and medical centers provide a training ground for future scientists and healthcare professionals to build experience with R1 research opportunities.
How can I help?
Email your lawmakers and let them know that funding California science is a priority for you.
You can also talk to your friends, neighbors and community about the importance of supporting scientific research, our university and SB 895. Your voice matters!
