California's Proposition 36 Aims to Revise Theft and Drug Crime Penalties

The measure seeks to increase penalties for certain crimes, sparking a debate on its impact on public safety and incarceration rates.

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.