Overview

• Proposition 36 proposes to reclassify certain theft and drug offenses from misdemeanors to felonies, reversing parts of 2014's Proposition 47.
• The initiative includes harsher penalties for repeat offenders and mandates longer prison sentences for specific drug-related crimes.
• Supporters argue the changes will address rising retail theft and the drug crisis, with backing from law enforcement and major retailers.
• Opponents, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, warn it could lead to increased incarceration and exacerbate racial disparities in the justice system.
• The measure's bipartisan support is questioned after significant financial backing from the California Republican Party.