UC sponsors SB 895 to place a $23 billion bond to fund scientific research in California on the November ballot

OAKLAND – As the University of California faces one of the most significant disruptions to its research enterprise in its 157-year history, UC President James B. Milliken announced today 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.”

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.

“As the federal government upends science funding, California must stand up to defend science and to double down on our state’s global science leadership,” said Sen. Scott Wiener. “Science makes California great in so many ways, from helping cure diseases, to helping prevent climate-driven wildfires, to driving our economy. The UC has been at the center of that scientific leadership for decades, and I’m proud to have its partnership in the fight to take back control of California’s destiny on science funding.”

Read the entire press release, with video, in the UC Office of the President press room.