Alzheimer’s Los Angeles backs Prop 38 for research funding

Alzheimer’s Los Angeles is urging a yes vote on California’s Proposition 38, saying the measure could speed Alzheimer’s research and support families affected by the disease. The initiative would raise $8.4 billion for immunology research and includes spending limits, audits and other accountability rules.

Why it matters: - Nearly 720,000 Californians are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, more than in any other state. - Supporters say Proposition 38 could accelerate research into treatments that may prevent, slow or stop Alzheimer’s disease. - Families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s are looking for options that could extend independence and improve quality of life.

What happened: - The YES on Proposition 38 campaign highlighted support from Alzheimer’s Los Angeles in a new video. - Joey Milne, president of Alzheimer’s Los Angeles, said the measure offers hope to Californians living with Alzheimer’s and the family members who care for them. - Susan Disney Lord, board chair of Alzheimer’s Los Angeles, also backed the initiative and said it would give California a stable, long-term commitment to this research.

The details: - Prop 38, called the Immunology Medical Research & Cures Initiative, would provide $8.4 billion for immunology research. - The money would support work aimed at preventing and treating cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and other persistent diseases. - Immunology research focuses on approaches that identify and clear amyloid plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s. - Current FDA-approved treatments can slow disease progression for some people with early Alzheimer’s, but they do not stop the disease. - Immunotherapies are already being used successfully against melanoma, lung cancer, leukemia and lymphoma. - The measure would also fund research for Parkinson’s, diabetes, ALS, muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis. - Prop 38 includes a requirement that 10% of proceeds from licensing immunotherapies be returned to California to offset the measure’s total costs, including interest. - Any cure or immunotherapy developed under the measure would be provided to California patients at a 20% discount below the national average. - The initiative includes a 2% cap on state administrative expenses. - Prop 38 requires public disclosure of spending and independent financial audits. - For-profit corporations would not be eligible for grant funding.

Between the lines: - The endorsement comes as federal research funding uncertainty is disrupting medical studies. - Supporters said that uncertainty halted at least 160 active clinical trials nationwide in 2025. - The backing from Alzheimer’s Los Angeles gives the campaign a patient- and caregiver-focused voice from a group working directly with affected families.

What's next: - The YES on Prop 38 campaign is pointing voters to more information and supporter materials. - The campaign is also directing voters to its coalition list and statements from supporters on the same site. - Alzheimer’s Los Angeles will continue offering free services, including a helpline, support groups, care counseling, education and community outreach.

The bottom line: - Prop 38 is being framed as both a research funding measure and a long-term bet on finding better Alzheimer’s treatments and, eventually, a cure.