M

Changes to Business Taxes

Shall the City permanently change the taxes it collects from businesses, including: changing annual gross receipts tax rates to between 0.1% and 3.716%, homelessness gross receipts tax rates to between 0.0162% and 1.64%, business registration fees to between $55 and $60,000, overpaid executive gross receipts tax rates to between 0.02% and 0.129%, and administrative office tax rates to between 2.97% and 3.694% of payroll expense; increasing the gross receipts tax exemption for small businesses; and changing how the City calculates these taxes; for estimated annual revenue of $50 million once fully implemented?

 

This measure requires 50%+1 affirmative votes to pass.

Digest by the Ballot Simplification Committee

The Way It Is Now:

The City collects various business taxes annually, including:

  • A gross receipts tax that is a percentage of a business’s San Francisco gross receipts. Depending on business type, the City calculates a business’s San Francisco gross receipts based on sales in San Francisco, payroll expenses for employees working there, or both. Rates range from 0.053% to 1.008% and are scheduled to increase in coming years. Rates depend on business type, and higher rates apply as a business generates more gross receipts. For 2024, most small businesses with gross receipts up to $2.25 million are exempt. 
  • A homelessness gross receipts tax that is an additional tax on business activities with San Francisco gross receipts over $50 million. Rates range from 0.175% to 0.69%.
  • An overpaid executive gross receipts tax that is an additional tax on businesses that pay their highest-paid managerial employee much higher than the median compensation they pay their San Francisco employees. Rates are between 0.1% and 0.6%.
  • A business registration fee that is an additional tax. For most businesses, the fee is currently between $47 and $45,150, based on business type and amount of gross receipts.
  • An administrative office tax that is a tax on payroll expenses paid by certain large businesses instead of these other business taxes. The combined rates in 2024 range from 3.04% to 5.44%, and in 2025 are scheduled to range from 3.11% to 5.51%. Business registration fees for these businesses currently range from $19,682 to $45,928.

State law limits the total revenue that the City may spend each year. The voters may approve increases to this spending limit for up to four years.

The Proposal:

The proposed measure would change the City’s business taxes to:

  • For the gross receipts tax:
    • exempt most small businesses with gross receipts up to $5 million (increased by inflation).
    • reduce the number of business types from 14 to seven;
    • calculate San Francisco gross receipts based more on sales and less on payroll expenses, depending on the type of business;
    • change rates to between 0.1% and 3.716%; and
  • Apply the homelessness gross receipts tax on business activities with San Francisco gross receipts over $25 million, at rates between 0.162% and 1.64%.
  • Modify how the City calculates the overpaid executive gross receipts tax, determine who pays that tax, and set the rates between 0.02% and 0.129%.
  • Adjust business registration fees to between $55 and $60,000 (increased by inflation).
  • Adjust the administrative office tax rates for certain large businesses to range from 2.97% to 3.694%, and adjust the business registration fees for these businesses to between $500 and $35,000 (increased by inflation).
  • Make administrative changes to the City’s business taxes.

The homelessness gross receipts tax would continue to fund homelessness prevention and services for people experiencing homelessness.

The City would use the other taxes mentioned above for general government purposes.

All these taxes would apply indefinitely until repealed.

This proposal would increase the City’s spending limit for four years.

If Proposition M passes with more votes than Proposition L, then Proposition L would have no legal effect.

A "YES" Vote Means: If you vote "yes," you want to change the following taxes the City collects from businesses: the gross receipts tax, the homelessness gross receipts tax, the overpaid executive gross receipts tax, the administrative office tax and business registration fees.

A "NO" Vote Means: If you vote "no," you do not want to change the City’s business taxes.

Controller's Statement on "M" 

City Controller Greg Wagner has issued the following statement on the fiscal impact of Proposition M:

Should the proposed ordinance be approved by the voters, in my opinion, it would have the following effects on business tax revenue. Over the first three fiscal years, between fiscal year 2024-25 and FY 2026-27, the measure is projected to reduce revenues by approximately $40 million annually. While uncertain this projected loss may be smaller if the measure helps enable the City to reduce reserves for disputed taxes in the future. Beginning in 2027, scheduled rate increases would generate positive revenues of approximately $50 million annually in FY 2028-29 and thereafter. By FY 2029-30, the total positive revenue resulting from the rate increases would offset the reduced revenue in the first three years, making the total amount of business tax revenue over that period comparable to current law. After FY 2029-30, the ordinance is projected to continue to generate additional revenue of approximately $50 million annually. Projected revenue impacts above assume a reduction in business license fees of $10 million annually, which will be proposed in forthcoming legislation.

The proposed ordinance would amend the City’s existing Business and Tax Regulations Code in several key areas:

  • Increases the small business exemption from the gross receipts tax from $2.25 million to $5.0 million,
  • Consolidates the number of tax schedules from 14 business activity categories to 7 business activity categories for the gross receipts and homelessness gross receipts taxes,
  • Adjusts tax rates for gross receipts, homelessness gross receipts, administrative office, and overpaid executive gross receipts taxes in 2025, and increases tax rates on gross receipts, administrative office, and overpaid executive gross receipts taxes in 2027 and 2028; currently scheduled tax rate increases after 2024 would not occur under this proposal,
  • Shifts the City’s calculation of San Francisco gross receipts for most business activities away from payroll expenses and towards sales; the only exceptions are business activities whose San Francisco gross receipts calculation is already entirely based on sales,
  • Requires the Office of the Treasurer and Tax Collector to establish an advance determination process to provide written guidance to taxpayers, and makes other implementation changes,
  • Creates new tax credits for businesses paying stadium operator admission taxes, grocery retailers, and new lessees in certain newly constructed buildings,
  • Makes changes to business registration fees.

Additionally, the ordinance requires that the Controller report on the impact of the various changes made by this initiative in September 2026 and September 2027.

Business taxes can vary significantly depending on economic conditions, and current estimates may not be predictive of future revenues.

How "M" Got on the Ballot

On July 8, 2024, the Department of Elections certified that the initiative petition calling for Proposition M to be placed on the ballot had a sufficient number of valid signatures to qualify the measure for the ballot.

10,029 signatures were required to place an initiative ordinance on the ballot. This number is equal to 2% of the registered voters at the time a "Notice of Intent to Circulate Petition" was published. A random check of the signatures submitted by the proponents of the initiative petition prior to the July 8, 2024, submission deadline showed that the total number of valid signatures was greater than the number required.

The above statement is an impartial analysis of this measure. Arguments for and against this measure immediately follow. The full text can be found under Legal Text. Some of the words used in the ballot digest are explained in Words You Need to Know.

 

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are printed as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Help SF Small Businesses Thrive, Revitalize San Francisco's Economy — Vote Yes on M!

The current San Francisco tax structure does not allow our local businesses to thrive. We've seen too many of our small businesses, especially restaurants and retail, close.

Proposition M offers crucial tax relief to help over 2,700 small businesses by completely eliminating their taxes. It will also prevent our largest employers from leaving the city, fixing taxes that previously penalized them for having employees in the office and that contributed to record office vacancy downtown.

Proposition M will also significantly reduce business license fees for restaurants, hotels, arts venues, and neighborhood stores. More than 90% of our local restaurants will have lower tax burdens, with 88% paying no business taxes at all. Lower taxes will allow our neighborhood businesses to thrive.

Proposition M will simplify our current tax system, making it more predictable for business owners and the City. This will help preserve essential services while working towards a more vibrant, clean and safe downtown.

San Francisco currently has some of the highest business tax rates in the country, penalizing both small and large businesses for continuing to operate here.

Proposition M will lower taxes and by doing so, create a better environment for future investments and growth. This is a proactive step towards helping our economy and ensuring San Francisco continues to be a place of innovation and opportunity.

This consensus measure has widespread support from local small businesses, advocates, progressives, moderates and city leaders from across the political spectrum. Join us in voting yes on Proposition M for our small businesses and the future of our city. Together, we can revitalize San Francisco. Learn more at revitalizesf.com.

Laurie Thomas, Golden Gate Restaurant Association

Masood Samereie, San Francisco Council of District Merchants Associations

Rodney Fong, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce

Alex Bastian, Hotel Council of San Francisco

Larry Mazzola Jr., San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council

Mary Jung, Former San Francisco Democratic Party Chair

Proposition M is anything but well-intentioned or small businesses friendly. Crafted by a coalition of special interests and politicians, the measure shifts the tax burden in ways both unfair and inefficient, to the detriment of working San Franciscans and the broader business community.

Proponents claim Proposition M lowers and simplifies taxes. In truth, it is anything but revenue neutral. Proposition M is a hodgepodge borne of ugly backroom dealmaking among City Hall insiders, business lobbyists and labor unions, who lighten their own burdens, while extracting higher and oppressive taxes for a hungry City Hall.

Proposition M creates winners and losers among industries—some facing incredible tax hikes, especially those just below the highest tiers. Noteworthy, biotech firms see their tax burden increase by 68%. Proposition M means higher local inflation, job cuts and employers leaving San Francisco.

This is hardly broad-based tax reform. Proposition M is a sticky special interest honeypot which threatens growth and jobs.

Instead of supporting this flawed measure, let's turn our attention to comprehensive, citizen-led tax and spending reforms reforms in 2025, which will genuinely support growing businesses and a sustainable economic future. Vote NO on Proposition M.

Larry Marso, Esq.

Proposition M introduces new tax rates that dramatically increase the burden for many businesses in San Francisco. While some small business might see minimal changes, others—especially mid-sized and large employers—face doubled or even quadrupled tax rates.

This isn't a "tweak," it's a massive tax increase that could drastically alter the financial future of major companies. Proponents claim the measure is "revenue neutral". The Controller disagrees: it's a $50 million/year tax increase. It shifts the burden heavily onto businesses still reeling from San Francisco's COVID collapse. These steep tax hikes will force companies to reduce investments, cut jobs and reconsider operating in San Francisco entirely.

There's a better way to reform our business tax system. As someone who has drafted a ballot measure, I know that a citizen-led initiative in 2025 can bypass hungry City Hall politicians to create a fair, broad-based tax structure that encourages business growth rather than penalizing it. Together, we can enact tax and spending reforms in 2025 that streamline government, simplify the tax code, and make San Francisco a more attractive place for businesses of all sizes.

Vote NO on Proposition M and join me in supporting real, citizen-driven tax reform in 2025 that benefits all of San Francisco.

Larry Marso

Mr. Marso is a technology executive, M&A advisor and attorney. A staunch advocate for fiscal responsibility, he authored a ballot measure to regulate San Francisco navigation/linkage centers, has fought corruption and fraud in our political parties and nonprofits, and as a member and former executive of the local Republican Party committee, has offered principled opposition.

Stop the Big Fraud on San Francisco voters! visit: https://bigfraud.com

Larry S. Marso

REBUTTAL TO THE ARGUMENT IN OPPOSITION TO PROPOSITION M

San Francisco's Small Businesses Need Proposition M. Please Vote Yes!

Our small businesses are the heartbeat of San Francisco, representing everything that makes our city vibrant, diverse and unique. But our neighborhood businesses are in crisis, and we need Proposition M. Since the pandemic, many small businesses have closed their doors, while others struggle to stay afloat, burdened by the city's crushing tax structure.

Without Proposition M, small business taxes will skyrocket. Taxes are scheduled to go up, and as representatives of small businesses across San Francisco, we can confidently say many in our small business community will not survive.

Proposition M offers a lifeline. It helps our businesses survive and thrive by providing immediate tax relief to over 2,700 small businesses. It exempts these businesses from paying city taxes and eliminates $10 million in permitting and licensing fees. It also reduces or eliminates taxes on 90% of restaurants.

Proposition M simplifies San Francisco's business tax structure, reduces payroll taxes to encourage larger employers to stay, and spreads the tax burden more evenly for financial stability to support critical city services. This isn't just a temporary fix; it's a crucial step toward revitalizing our economy and preserving the unique character of our neighborhoods.

Vote YES on Proposition M to help the small businesses that make San Francisco great.

Haight Ashbury Merchants Association

Polk District Merchants Association

North Beach Business Association 

Mission Creek Merchants Association

1

Revitalize our City and Vote Yes on Prop M!

San Francisco, long celebrated as a hub of innovation and commerce, is still grappling with the economic impacts of the pandemic. Small businesses are struggling recover and our downtown is suffering. Proposition M is not just a policy change—it's a lifeline for thousands of local businesses on the brink of closure. Passing Proposition M will catalyze sectors like healthcare, arts, entertainment, manufacturing, and cleantech, ensuring San Francisco remains an innovative and dynamic place to live and work. Delayed tax increases will resume in 2025 if Proposition M does not pass. We cannot afford to further burden our local businesses. Help San Francisco’s economy thrive by voting Yes on Proposition M. Revitalizesf.com.

Mayor London Breed

Board President Aaron Peskin

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman

Supervisor Catherine Stefani

Supervisor Ahsha Safai

Supervisor Myrna Melgar

Supervisor Connie Chan

Assessor-Recorder Joaquín Torres

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

2

Support Proposition M: A Crucial Measure for Small Businesses

As representatives of San Francisco's local chambers of commerce, we support Proposition M. This vital measure is essential for the survival and prosperity of the hundreds of small businesses we represent. Since the pandemic, our members—spanning retail, hospitality, and more—have faced unprecedented challenges. By easing the tax burden on these industries, we are directly supporting their ability to rebound and flourish post-pandemic. Beyond immediate tax relief, this measure will also simplify San Francisco’s business tax structure, making it more navigable for businesses and ensuring long-term economic stability. Without this measure, rising taxes in 2025 will stifle recovery efforts and economic growth. Vote Yes on Proposition M to safeguard the future of San Francisco's vibrant small business community! RevitalizeSF.com.

San Francisco Chamber of Commerce

Hispanic Chambers of Commerce of San Francisco

San Francisco Filipino American Chamber of Commerce

San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

3

Save San Francisco's Small Businesses - Vote YES on M

San Francisco has long been a beacon of innovation, culture, and entrepreneurship, but our small businesses are now on the brink of collapse. The relentless pressures of high business taxes and operational costs, exacerbated by the pandemic, have left our once-bustling neighborhoods desolate. Prop M is our lifeline to recovery, offering essential tax relief to over 2,700 small businesses. Without this critical measure, increased tax burdens starting January 2025 will jeopardize our city's economic resurgence. By exempting businesses from onerous city business taxes and eliminating over $10 million in permitting and licensing fees, we can revive the vibrant storefronts, cozy eateries, and unique neighborhood stores that define San Francisco. Pass Prop M and save our small businesses! RevitalizeSF.com.

Golden Gate Restaurant Association

San Francisco Council of District Merchants

California Nightlife Association

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

4

Support Proposition M for a Democratic Commitment to Economic Equity and Community Well-being

As leaders in the local Democratic Party, we urge every San Franciscan to support Proposition M. This measure is not just about tax reform; it's a reaffirmation of our core Democratic values of fairness, economic opportunity, and community well-being. Our city's small businesses, have faced unparalleled challenges since the pandemic. By simplifying the tax system and reducing the taxes on these vital enterprises, Proposition M ensures that businesses of all sizes can flourish. This proposition represents our commitment to fostering job creation and economic stability—essential components for a just recovery post-pandemic. Supporting Proposition M is more than a vote for tax reform; it's a vote for equity and prosperity in our beloved city. RevitalizeSF.com.

Mary Jung, Former Chair, San Francisco Democratic Party*

Emma Heiken, Vice Chair, San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee*

Trevor Chandler, Member, San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

5

As a former City Controller, I stand firm in support of Proposition M.

San Francisco businesses, both large and small, have faced unprecedented challenges since the pandemic. Proposition M aims to turn our city around by providing much-needed tax relief to over 2,700 small businesses and eliminating millions in permitting and licensing fees. Consider the pulse and vitality of our city—the heartbeat that small businesses generate through local employment, community engagement, and unique offerings. Without intervention, small business taxes are set to increase by January 2025, further straining our economic recovery and hurting the lifeblood of San Francisco's neighborhoods. The pandemic has shown our vulnerabilities, but together, we can build a robust, resilient San Francisco. Vote Yes on Prop M! RevitalizeSF.com.

Ed Harrington, Former City Controller

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

6

Support Proposition M: A Progressive Vision for an Inclusive and Equitable San Francisco

As progressive leaders, we stand in strong support of Proposition M. Since the pandemic, countless small businesses in San Francisco have struggled, affecting not only the livelihoods of business owners but also the vibrancy and diversity of our beloved city. Proposition M is our opportunity to reduce onerous taxes and simplify the business tax system, thereby providing much-needed relief to those who need it most. By eliminating regressive taxes, Proposition M ensures that our city's economic growth benefits businesses of all sizes. This measure is essential for leveling the playing field, promoting community resilience, and supporting our progressive values of social justice and economic equity. Vote Yes on Proposition M to create a brighter future for all! RevitalizeSF.com.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin

Supervisor Connie Chan

Norman Yee, former President, Board of Supervisors

Small Business Forward

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

7

Save Critical Homeless Services – Vote Yes on Proposition M!

Homelessness is one of the most pressing issues facing our beloved city. Proposition M is our opportunity to protect vital funding for homeless services. In this post pandemic era, we are relying on a smaller number of companies to pay into the homeless fund. To avoid substantial revenue loss if these companies relocate, Proposition M offers a solution: by reforming our tax structure, we can broaden the tax base and provide stability for essential city services. This funding, contributed by the business community, is crucial to keeping thousands of San Franciscans housed. Vote Yes on Proposition M! RevitalizeSF.com.

Sharky Laguana, Homelessness Oversight Coalition*

San Francisco Coalition on Homelessness

Christin Evans, Vice Chair, Homelessness Oversight Commission*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco. 

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

8

Proposition M is Essential for San Francisco's Hospitality Industry

As representatives of San Francisco's hospitality industry, we emphatically support Proposition M. Our hotels, restaurants, and service providers form the backbone of San Francisco's vibrant tourism economy, welcoming millions of visitors annually. The pandemic left many of us teetering on the edge of financial ruin. Proposition M presents much-needed relief by eliminating excessive taxes and simplifying our tax system, enabling our businesses to recover and flourish. Without this measure, the impending rise in taxes in 2025 threatens to severely restrict our capacity to serve guests and sustain jobs. Supporting Proposition M is imperative for preserving the hospitality industry's indispensable role in San Francisco's economic and cultural tapestry. Vote Yes on Proposition M for a more robust and resilient hospitality sector! RevitalizeSF.com.

Alex Bastian, President and CEO, Hotel Council of San Francisco

Tony Roumph, Board Member, Hotel Council of San Francisco

Golden Gate Restaurant Association

California Nightlife Association

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

9

Support Proposition M: Key to Revitalizing San Francisco's Downtown 

San Francisco's downtown is the economic heart of our city, but the pandemic's lingering effects have taken a toll. Many businesses have shuttered their doors, and foot traffic has dwindled. We must breathe new life into our commercial core. Proposition M is the key to our recovery, offering essential tax relief and simplifying our complex tax code. By reducing the tax burden on both small and large businesses, this measure will incentivize businesses to return to the downtown area. Proposition M will restore vibrancy to our streets, stimulate job creation, and enhance the overall economic health of our city. Vote for Proposition M to revitalize our Financial District and downtown business community! RevitalizeSF.com. 

Hotel Council of San Francisco 

Golden Gate Restaurant Association 

Building Owners and Managers San Francisco 

San Francisco Chamber of Commerce 

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

10

As Chinese business owners in San Francisco, we strongly support Proposition M.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting mark on San Francisco’s small business community. Struggling to stay afloat amidst soaring operational costs and reduced customer footfall, many have had to shut their doors permanently. This proposition will categorically exempt over 2,700 small businesses from paying city business taxes, providing them with the financial breathing room to survive and thrive. Additionally, it will eliminate over $10 million in license fees for restaurants, hotels, arts, and neighborhood stores, encouraging new investments and revitalizing our communities. Voting Yes on Proposition M is essential for revitalizing San Francisco and securing a prosperous future for all businesses. RevitalizeSF.com.

Cynthia Huie, On Waverly*

Cyn Wang, Wang Insurance*

Tane O. Chan, Wok Shop*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

11

Proposition M is a Vital Boost for Latino Businesses in San Francisco

Since the pandemic, many of us have struggled to keep our doors open. This measure offers targeted relief by eliminating taxes for small businesses, including our beloved neighborhood restaurants and stores. For many restaurants, hotels, and neighborhood stores, eliminating over $10 million in license fees could spell the difference between staying open and closing doors for good. Proposition M simplifies the tax system, providing predictability and stability, which are essential for our survival and growth. Without it, rising taxes in 2025 will threaten our community's businesses. We need this reform to revitalize our city and ensure a vibrant future for Latino business owners. Vote Yes on Proposition M!

Denise Gonzalez, Luz de Luna*

Jonathan Hernandez, Latin American Barbers*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

12

Yes on Proposition M: Empowering LGBTQ Businesses 

Our community's San Francisco's unique and vibrant small business community is at risk, and Proposition M is the lifeline we desperately need. LGBTQ businesses throughout the city have faced unparalleled challenges since the pandemic, many on the brink of closure. This tax exemption is not a luxury; it is a necessity to ensure these businesses, which are integral to San Francisco, can survive and thrive. By simplifying the tax system and expanding tax cuts for small businesses, Proposition M ensures stability and growth for businesses that embody the spirit of our diverse communities. Without this measure, small business taxes will inevitably rise next year, a blow that many may not survive. Vote Yes on Proposition M to support LGBTQ businesses and an inclusive San Francisco! RevitalizeSF.com

Christin Evans, Booksmith*

Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

13

Vote YES on M and Revitalize our City 

COVID-19 left an enduring mark on San Francisco, transforming our vibrant downtown into a shadow of its former self. Office vacancies are at an all-time high, and cherished landmarks like Union Square are losing their allure as stores shut down. The solution is clear: we urgently need to revitalize our city's core to attract and retain businesses, and Proposition M is our path forward. Proposition M will attract diverse economic sectors back into the fold, rewarding companies for keeping and creating jobs in San Francisco. Imagine a bustling downtown once more, with employees filing office buildings, tourists flocking to hotels, and locals supporting their favorite arts and entertainment venues. Vote YES on Proposition M and breathe new life into our cherished city! RevitalizeSF.com

San Francisco Building and Trades Council 

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

14

Support Proposition M for San Francisco's Entertainment Industry 

Our city's bars, nightclubs, theaters, and other entertainment venues are cornerstones of San Francisco's cultural and social life. From the Mission District's vibrant nightlife to the cutting-edge performances in SOMA's theaters, these venues bring patrons to our neighborhood businesses and infuse our city with its unique spirit. Since the pandemic, many venues have grappled with survival, unable to withstand the economic strain. Proposition M offers crucial relief by eliminating burdensome taxes and simplifying the tax system, allowing our businesses to survive and grow. Without this measure, tax increases scheduled in 2025 could force many venues to shut down permanently, further eroding our city's cultural landscape. Support San Francisco's entertainment industry and vote Yes on Proposition M! RevitalizeSF.com. 

California Nightlife Association 

Cyn Wang, Vice President of San Francisco Entertainment Commission*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

15

Protect Neighborhood Businesses and Vote YES on M 

The heart and soul of San Francisco lie within the small businesses that line our streets and comprise our neighborhoods. However, since the pandemic, these small businesses have been struggling to keep their doors open. As a fierce protector of our neighborhoods, I recognize how important it is to support the small businesses that make up the backbone of our local communities. Proposition M offers a beacon of hope by significantly reducing the financial burdens on our beloved local establishments. Without Proposition M, these small businesses face an imminent increase in taxes starting January 2025, jeopardizing our city's economic recovery just as it's gaining momentum. Proposition M is a key part of rebuilding San Francisco not just for the few, but for everyone. RevitalizeSF.com.

Aaron Peskin, President, Board of Supervisors*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

16

Vote Yes on Prop M - A Lifeline for San Francisco's Economic Recovery 

Our beloved San Francisco is at a crossroads. Since the pandemic, our vibrant city has seen its small businesses shutter, and major employers leave, leaving us vulnerable to economic shocks and threatening the stability of critical city services. Imagine a San Francisco where small businesses thrive, where restaurants and arts venues flourish, and where the city's economic stability is not contingent on a few large companies. Proposition M aims to make this vision a reality by exempting 2,700 small businesses from business taxes, and eliminating $10 million in permitting and licensing fees. This measure will also cut payroll taxes to incentivize companies to bring employees back. For the sake of our community and our future, join us in turning our city around and vote Yes on Proposition M! RevitalizeSF.com. 

GrowSF 

TogetherSF 

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

17

Vote Yes on Proposition M to Revitalize San Francisco's Small Businesses! 

Proposition M isn't just a tax reform; it's a lifeline for our local businesses. As a two-term supervisor and a mayoral candidate with firsthand experience running a small business, I understand the urgent need to support our local businesses. Without immediate intervention, taxes on small businesses will escalate in January 2025, further hindering our economic recovery. Under Proposition M, over 90% of restaurants will see a reduction in taxes, with 88% paying no business taxes at all. It will also reward companies for keeping employees in San Francisco, bringing people back downtown, and contributing to our local economy. We have the power to create a more equitable, vibrant city—join me and vote YES on Proposition M! RevitalizeSF.com.

Supervisor Ahsha Safai

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

18

Vote YES on Prop M for a Vibrant San Francisco! 

Let's come together to support Proposition M and create a vibrant San Francisco where neighborhoods are alive, tourists are excited to be in town, and a downtown that is buzzing with activity every day. It's time to turn around San Francisco's economy, for businesses both large and small. As a born and raised San Franciscan, I've seen firsthand how small businesses, who are the heart of our neighborhoods, continue to face unprecedented challenges in the wake of the pandemic. That's why I'm supporting Proposition M - to exempt an additional 2,700 small businesses from business taxes, encourage employers to bring people back to the office, and catalyze sectors like healthcare, hospitality, art, entertainment manufacturing, and cleantech. Vote Yes on Proposition M for a flourishing future for San Francisco! RevitalizeSF.com. 

Mark Farrell, Former San Francisco Mayor and Supervisor 

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

19

Let's be honest - City Hall has made promises in the past to small businesses that haven't been kept. Instead of receiving the support they need, our entrepreneurs are tangled in a web of bureaucracy and left on the front lines of our homelessness, drug dealing, and mental health crises. Prop M is our chance to provide a real boost to small businesses and spur our sluggish economic recovery. 

I'm a San Francisco native and proud father of two school-aged children who wants to build a future for our city that they can be proud of. 

Prop M will restructure our business taxes to be fairer and more equitable, reducing or eliminating the tax burden on small businesses while ensuring that our city's tax revenue is more resilient. Our current tax structure relies too heavily on just a few companies, which jeopardizes funds for city services during economic downturns and fails to support small businesses, innovation, and job creation. 

This is not just about fixing a problem City Hall created; it's about propelling San Francisco forward. By making it easier for small businesses to operate and grow, Prop M will spur the recovery we so desperately need, bringing jobs, vitality, and economic stability back to our streets. 

Let's not just talk about solutions- let's implement them. Vote Yes on Pop M and help create a San Francisco where small businesses can thrive, where our tax system is fair and stable, and where we take real steps to address the challenges we face together. RevitalizeSF.com. 

Daniel Lurie, Non-profit Executive 

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

 

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Vote YES on M for San Francisco Economic Recovery

As the 45th Mayor of San Francisco, I guided the city through the most significant public health crisis in a century. While our city has come a long way, our small businesses are still struggling to recover. I urge you to join me in supporting Proposition M, a critical measure that will help our neighborhood businesses recover. By attracting and retaining businesses of all sizes, Proposition M will create a more dynamic and resilient economy. We must continue to build a sustainable environment where businesses can thrive, contribute to job creation, and enhance the quality of life for all residents. By stabilizing our economic base, we secure the city's fiscal health for the future. Vote YES on Proposition M to ensure a flourishing future for our beloved city. RevitalizeSF.com.

Mayor London Breed

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Revitalize San Francisco.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Google, 2. Airbnb, 3. Hotel Council of San Francisco.

No Paid Arguments Against Proposition M Were Submitted