The California Medical Association (CMA) and the Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society (SSVMS) defeated Measure C, a surprise measure on the March 5 ballot, which would have significantly raised taxes on physician practices in Sacramento. This victory was achieved through a coalition effort that also included the California Dental Association, the Sacramento District Dental Society and The Doctors Company. This victory was only possible because CMA and SSVMS quickly pulled together a coalition to run a campaign to contact voters asking them vote against Measure C.

If Measure C had passed, fees for physicians and other licensed professionals operating businesses within the City of Sacramento would have increased by as much as 812%. Additionally, the measure proposed a 227% tax hike on part-time and full-time workers at specified small businesses. In addition to the proposed tax increase on licensed professionals, some businesses would have faced a staggering increase in their maximum annual tax liability from $5,000 to $125,000.

The "No on C" campaign, spearheaded by CMA and SSVMS, quickly mobilized in response to the Sacramento City Council's failure to provide proper notice, which prevented any statements of opposition to the enormous tax increase from appearing in the local voter guide. Despite this challenge, the campaign made 168,000 phone calls, 94,000 texts and sent multiple mail pieces to educate voters about the negative impacts of the tax increase.

"I am proud of CMA and SSVMS for our swift action and unwavering commitment to safeguarding physician practices," stated CMA President Tanya W. Spirtos, M.D. "The defeat of Measure C not only protects physician practices in Sacramento, but also sends a clear message that local governments should engage with physicians and refrain from attempting to impose unfair tax increases, as was attempted in Sacramento."

"This victory is a testament to the power of organized medicine in protecting physician practices and ensuring access to quality health care for all," said SSVMS President Vanessa Walker, D.O. “Physician practices are integral to our communities, and we are grateful to the voters of Sacramento for recognizing their importance."

The defeat of Measure C ensures that physician practices in Sacramento can continue to serve their communities without the burden of the enormous tax increase.