By Alex Lane - And now, our continuing report on the Propositions you’ll be deciding on in the November ballot. Today we’ll discuss Proposition 3, which would authorize 980 million in new bonds to build children’s hospitals and help them purchase new medical equipment. Supporters have argued persuasively for the need for better facilities and treatment in children’s hospitals, but opponents believe this is simply not possible during our current tough economic times. Supporters argue in favor of Prop 3 because it will “not raise taxes” and will “allow children’s hospitals to purchase the latest medical technologies and special equipment for sick babies.” They highlight the overwhelming percentage of childcare that takes place at Children’s Hospitals, compared to other hospital facilities. For example: Children’s Hospitals provide 97 percent of all surgery for children who need organ transplants and 71 percent of inpatient care for children with cancer. Four years ago, voters approved nearly 750 million for these hospitals but construction costs and budget shortfalls required most of the money. Opponents believe that “adding bonded indebtedness for anything but the most essential infrastructure is unwise to the point of absurdity.” Opponents criticize the emotional framing of the proponent’s argument under the guise of “Children’s hospitals”, saying that a “careful reading of the definition…reveals that 80 percent of the money may go to any acute hospital so long as it treats children, among other patients.” On November 4th, you’ll have the opportunity to decide on this highly contentious issue.