Democrats are choosing sides in California's crime and punishment fight over Prop. 36
Briefly

"Many of us supported Prop. 47. I certainly did, but it needs to be reformed because we went from mass incarceration to a massive failure of accountability. What we really need is mass treatment." — San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, emphasizing the need for accountability and treatment rather than just punitive measures, highlights a significant shift in approach towards drug-related offenses and theft.
"If I had the ability with Proposition 36 and the tools, I would have been able to require help and consequences for repeat offenders sooner, rather than waiting for them to hit a monetary threshold." — Sacramento District Attorney Thien Ho, explaining the limitations they face under current laws and how Prop. 36 could remedy those issues by streamlining justice for repeat offenders.
"Under Prop. 36, it would create a treatment-mandated felony allowing defendants to get drug charges dismissed if they finish court-ordered treatment -- a crucial step aimed at addressing the underlying issues of drug addiction and retail theft." — A significant aspect of the proposition that seeks to provide a pathway for rehabilitation rather than solely punishment.
"Local officials have joined the effort because they see firsthand the impacts of these laws on their communities, with many calling for a more effective approach in combating drug addiction and retail crime." — Noting the bipartisan appeal among city officials, reflecting a growing consensus for reforming criminal justice policies.
Read at Sacramento Bee
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