Proposition 36, a sentencing reform approved by over 68% of California voters, sought to provide an alternative to imprisonment for repeat drug users through expanded treatment opportunities. However, Governor Gavin Newsom's recent budget proposal ignores this directive, both failing to allocate necessary funding and cutting existing resources for drug treatment programs. Critics, including Steve Jackson, argue that this undermines public safety and the initiative's goals. Opponents of the proposition remain concerned about the potential increase in drug use and inadequate treatment capacity, while proponents maintain that incentives for treatment are essential in addressing the drug crisis.
Prop. 36's passage was a significant moment for California, offering a pathway to drug treatment for repeat offenders instead of simply incarceration.
The governor's budget proposal counters the intent of Prop. 36, limiting funding for drug treatment and thereby undermining the initiative's goals.
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