Knowing what you pay for: Does benefits information increase bond referenda support?

Abstract

This article examines the impact of including benefits information on voter support in school bond referenda. It proposes that benefits information can increase voter support and mitigate the negative impact of tax implications. The proposition is tested empirically through a survey experiment, using random assignment and a nationally representative sample. The findings provide causal evidence supporting the proposition, revealing a consistently positive effect of benefits information on voter support across diverse population groups, including homeowners, individuals without children, and supporters of private education. The effect weakens but remains significant even when tax implications are considered. These findings contribute to the existing literature on bond referenda and offer valuable insights for public policy makers aiming to enhance success rates in bond referenda.