California Voters to Decide on Prop. 1 Amid Declining Support and Budget Concerns

Gov. Gavin Newsom campaigns for the $6.4 billion mental health bond as polls show waning enthusiasm and opponents cite the state's deficit.

Gov. Gavin Newsom is actively campaigning for Prop. 1, a $6.4 billion bond aimed at overhauling California's mental health system, as recent polls indicate a drop in voter support.
Prop. 1 seeks to fund the construction of treatment facilities and housing for those with mental health and addiction issues, but faces criticism over concerns of increased state debt.
Support for the proposition has fallen from 68% to 59% among likely voters, with a significant portion of the decline attributed to worries about California's soaring deficit.
Opponents argue that the bond's cost, estimated at $310 million annually over 30 years, is too high during a time of financial strain for the state.
Newsom emphasizes the bond as a crucial step in addressing California's homelessness crisis, while critics fear it could lead to involuntary treatment and reduce funding for community-based programs.