theguardian.com
California's Prop 36: Tougher Penalties for Crime
California voters pass Proposition 36, a tough-on-crime initiative that increases penalties for theft and drug offenses, reversing parts of a previous reform.
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PoliticsJusticeUs PoliticsCrimeCaliforniaReform
Californians For Safety And JusticeCalifornia Black Power NetworkCalifornia's Legislative Analyst Office
Kamala HarrisLondon BreedMatt MahanMike GattoDonald Trump
- What is the main purpose of Proposition 36?
- Proposition 36, passed by California voters, increases penalties for retail theft, property crimes, and drug offenses, reversing parts of the 2014 Proposition 47 which downgraded several non-violent felonies to misdemeanors.
- What are the projected costs and consequences of Proposition 36?
- The state legislative analyst estimates that Prop 36 will cost tens of millions of dollars, increase the prison population, and add to the workload of court officials. Proponents counter that this is a worthwhile investment to reduce crime.
- What were the goals and criticisms of the earlier Proposition 47?
- Prop 47, enacted in 2014, was intended to reduce California's prison population and redirect funds to treatment programs. While hailed as a criminal justice reform, it was criticized for allegedly increasing property crime and substance abuse.
- How does Proposition 36 aim to address homelessness and fentanyl addiction?
- Proposition 36 aims to address homelessness and fentanyl addiction by imposing longer sentences for dealers and mandating drug treatment. The initiative's supporters believe it will curb crime, while opponents worry about its impact on resources for treatment programs.
- What factors contributed to the shift in public opinion leading to the passage of Proposition 36?
- The passage of Prop 36 reflects a shift in public opinion, influenced by factors such as the pandemic, racial justice protests, and increased visibility of crime. Concerns about a potential reduction in funding for drug treatment and behavioral health programs have also been raised.