Proposition 36, approved by California voters, imposes stricter penalties for low-level theft and drug crimes, allowing felony charges for habitual offenders. The law offers repeat offenders a treatment option in lieu of jail time but does not provide funding for implementation. Governor Gavin Newsom has opposed the measure as an 'unfunded mandate' amidst a significant budget deficit, directing local officials to self-finance. Despite this, Democratic lawmakers allocated $100 million to gradually implement the law, prompting ongoing negotiations with Newsom as the new fiscal year approaches.
"To say there needs to be a state bill to solve all their problems is not what the voters require," Newsom said, highlighting local accountability for Prop. 36.
"Last week, Democrats in the State Legislature agreed to set aside $100 million to phase in the measure," emphasizing the need for gradual implementation.
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