WHAT IT WOULD DO: Authorize $980 million in bonds for construction and equipment in eligible children’s hospitals, costing the state about $2 billion over 30 years.

California’s health-care system is ailing, and while what we need is to commit tremendous funding and attention to all of our state’s hospitals, such a measure is not on Tuesday’s ballot. However, voters are able to affect just a small portion of the problem: children’s hospitals.

Funding from Proposition 3 would allow these hospitals to expand their facilities and update equipment, which would in turn help save young lives. The measure also requires hospitals seeking a slice of the Proposition 3 pie to undergo an application review from state regulators, who would ensure that this money is only being spent on improvements to children’s health care.

Although children’s hospitals still have $350 million in 2004-approved bonds and adequate fundraising opportunities, these facilities are responsible for treating many of the state’s uninsured or poorly insured youth and because of this are in disproportionate need of support. Vote yes on Proposition 3.