Sacramento, California – This week, California lawmakers are set to decide on a last-minute crime initiative that could introduce two crime-related questions on the November ballot. Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic lawmakers have put forward a proposal to challenge an existing initiative supported by law enforcement and business groups. This new initiative aims to address concerns regarding penalties for thieves and drug dealers.
At the heart of the matter is Proposition 47, which was passed by voters ten years ago to reduce penalties for drug and theft crimes. Criticisms have emerged linking Prop 47 to an increase in crime, drug abuse, and homelessness. Despite this, legislative leaders and the governor have expressed their belief that Proposition 47 does not require any amendments. The idea for the new initiative was first reported by KCRA 3 as the governor rallied support from Democratic lawmakers over the weekend.
The proposed legislative initiative targets drug dealers by creating a felony for those who mix fentanyl with other drugs, punishable by up to six years in county jail. It also includes Alexandra’s Law, which mandates warnings to convicted fentanyl dealers about potential homicide charges if their actions lead to fatalities. Additionally, repeat thieves would face new penalties under this measure, potentially serving up to three years in jail for committing three acts of petty theft or shoplifting within three years.
Funds redirected from Prop 47 would be allocated to expand mental health and drug treatment programs under the proposed legislation. The initiative, known as Proposition 2, would be the second question on the ballot. While the law enforcement-backed initiative and the legislative initiative may appear similar to voters, criticisms have been raised about the harshness of the already qualified measure.
If both initiatives pass, the one with the majority of votes would take effect. In the event that the law enforcement initiative is invalidated by a court, the legislative initiative would come into force. This proposed measure only requires a simple majority vote and is set to be voted on by lawmakers on Wednesday.
Governor Newsom and legislative leaders attempted to negotiate the removal of the existing measure from the ballot, but discussions broke down before a crucial deadline. Efforts to leverage retail theft bills in exchange for changes to Prop 47 failed to gather enough support among lawmakers. Ultimately, the amendments were removed to pave the way for a new strategy introduced on Sunday night. The outcome of the legislative initiative’s fate on the November ballot remains uncertain.