California voters approved a tougher stance on crime by passing Proposition 36, indicating a major shift away from previous lenient policies.
Key Facts:
- Over 70% voted “yes” on Proposition 36, which took effect December 18.
- The measure tightens penalties that were loosened by Proposition 47 in 2014.
- Felony charges can now apply to certain drug offenses and thefts under $950.
- Voters also rejected another term for Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón.
- Some advocacy groups labeled the new proposition “racist,” while others see it as a positive change.
The Rest of The Story:
Proposition 36 reverses key parts of Proposition 47, which downgraded most thefts under $950 to misdemeanors. Critics, including the ACLU of Northern California, argue that it could fuel mass incarceration and disproportionately affect people of color.
Prop 36 which was overwhelmingly passed by voters, offers harsher penalties for robbing and drug trafficking in California. Gavin Newsome OPPOSED it.
When he takes credit for crime going down, remember this video. pic.twitter.com/Ht7Doip89B
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) December 24, 2024
Supporters say it restores a needed deterrent, especially in communities facing drug abuse and frequent theft.
Officials like Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco believe the law gives authorities stronger tools, including mandated rehab options and tougher sentences. He contends the new law is “definitely going to make things better” in California, especially in counties fighting high levels of property crime and drug abuse.
Bianco told Fox News Digital, “Being safe is not a Republican or a Democrat issue. Being safe is a human issue… We have a lot of freedoms in this country… With that comes a big responsibility of keeping the people that are going to victimize us out of our free society.”
Meanwhile, some business owners and security experts see the change as long overdue, citing rising concerns about public safety and economic impact.
Zack Seyun, founder and CEO of Cartha AI, a Los Angeles-based mental health platform, told Fox News Digital, “I’ve discussed the issue with storefront acquaintances who’ve had the same unfortunate brush with criminality that I have. When you get right down to it, business in the state feels vulnerable. Meeting that vulnerability with a sense of law is what Prop 36 is all about.”
Commentary:
Many Californians view Prop 36 as a necessary step to address ongoing crime and homelessness problems. While some who favor more progressive approaches disagree, the overwhelming vote suggests the public has grown wary of soft-on-crime policies, especially when safety is at stake. Passing the proposition speaks to the desire for a more balanced approach that allows for both rehabilitation and accountability.
This will be remembered as the year California’s comeback began.
Homeless encampments are being removed thanks to our Supreme Court win; criminals are going to jail thanks to Prop. 36; Newsom is as irrelevant as ever; and Kamala failed to nationalize the California “model.”
— Kevin Kiley (@KevinKileyCA) December 26, 2024
The Bottom Line:
Voters in California took a decisive turn toward tougher penalties, reflecting a widespread call for action on crime and homelessness.
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