How to improve social security and reduce crime rates are among the top concerns for the people of California. However, regarding Proposition 36, also known as “the Reduce Homelessness, Addiction, and Theft Act,” which advocates for stricter penalties for criminals, opinions among politicians and the public in California differ.
The Proposition 36 will appear on the November election ballot this year, aiming to repeal Proposition 47 passed by voters a decade ago, which lightened penalties for certain drug and theft offenses for repeat offenders.
Proposition 36 has been gaining increasing support from individuals and groups, including millions of voters, leaders of both parties in California, law enforcement and judicial institutions, and thousands of businesses.
However, some officials hold opposing views. Last Tuesday (September 24), the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors passed a motion against Proposition 36 with a vote of 3 in favor, 1 against, and 1 abstention. Officials in the county warned that if the proposition passes, it would lead to increased prison populations and court costs; implementing harsher punishments for criminals would further strain the already tight government budget.
During a recent press conference, California Governor Gavin Newsom directly criticized Proposition 36.
Regarding the stance of these politicians, California voter Amandeep Singh believes, “Ultimately, the government is here to serve the people and should base its decisions on public safety rather than measuring the benefits of reducing the prison population, otherwise, there will be more street crimes.”
Los Angeles County resident Kra Hulec expressed understanding for politicians needing funds but emphasized the importance of not sacrificing public safety, stating, “Especially when California’s tax revenue seems to be disappearing into thin air.”
In the midst of a sharp increase in theft and property crime rates across the state, most voters believe that improving public safety is a top priority. The latest survey released by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) on September 19 shows that about 71% of likely California voters support Proposition 36, advocating for abolishing or amending Proposition 47.
Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified some serious offenses like drug possession, theft, shoplifting, and check forgery as misdemeanors, while also raising the threshold for felony theft charges from $450 to $950; now, after a decade, this law has become increasingly intolerable for many.
Key points of Proposition 36 include requiring arrested addicts to complete rehabilitation programs, facing felony charges if they fail to do so; imposing harsher penalties for fentanyl dealers; and for repeat theft offenders, regardless of the amount involved, they will face felony charges on the third arrest.
In the November election, voting “Yes” on Proposition 36 means agreeing to harsh penalties for thieves and drug dealers, while voting “No” indicates disagreement.
On September 27, the President of the Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC), Kelly Vernon, announced support for Proposition 36. In a statement, she said, “CPOC supports Proposition 36 as we believe it is a significant step towards meaningful reform within the judicial system and the communities we serve. As professionals dedicated to public safety, assisting individuals in changing their lives, and supporting victims, we recognize the urgent need to take action and approach this proposition from a perspective balancing punishment and opportunities for rehabilitation.”
Vernon views Proposition 36 as the desired change by the community, victims, and those within the justice system, which can make communities safer. With the proposition successfully included on the ballot, voters will make the final decision in the November election.