McKinnor criticizes Newsom veto of reparations tax break

Newsom rejects tax exemption

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a California reparations tax exemption proposed by Democratic Assemblymember Tina McKinnor. McKinnor responded that she was “deeply disappointed” by the governor’s decision.

The measure would have created an exemption from California taxes connected to reparations. Newsom’s veto blocks that exemption from becoming law through McKinnor’s measure.

The decision concerns both tax policy and reparations. A tax exemption changes how the state treats certain money or transactions for tax purposes, while the reparations connection defines the policy’s intended role. The veto leaves California’s existing tax treatment in place rather than adding McKinnor’s proposed exemption.

A policy disagreement between Democrats

McKinnor’s response puts the disagreement between two Democratic state officeholders in direct terms. As an Assembly member, she advanced the tax exemption. As governor, Newsom rejected it.

Their shared party affiliation does not give them the same role in making state law. Legislators propose and vote on measures, while the governor decides whether to sign or veto legislation sent to his office.

The veto resolves the immediate question of whether McKinnor’s measure will take effect: it will not become law through this action. Further movement on the policy would require another step in the legislative process, such as action on the veto or a new proposal addressing the tax exemption.