**Proposition 36 Effects: Budget Cuts Looming Over Califonia’s Criminal Justice Programs**
In a recent development following the passing of Proposition 36, a significant impact on California’s state budget is expected, leading to potential cuts in essential programs for reentry services and support for crime victims. Despite initial concerns about the financial repercussions of the new law, Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has released a spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year that projects a relatively minimal impact on key programs, at least in the immediate future.
**Concerns and Projections**
Last year, Proposition 36 was approved by voters as a comprehensive reform of Proposition 47, allowing more theft and drug crimes to be charged as felonies. This shift in policy is anticipated to result in longer prison sentences, leading to a reduction in funding for critical programs that were previously supported by Proposition 47 savings. The governor’s proposed budget for this fiscal year allocates $88 million to mental health and reentry programs for victims and former prisoners, a slightly lower figure than the initial projection.
**Long-Term Implications**
While some counties have already begun prosecuting theft and drug cases as felonies under Proposition 36, experts and advocates believe that the full effects of the law will not be felt for at least a year. The governor’s office estimates that the money saved from Proposition 47’s reduced prison population could decrease to $24 million by the 2026-27 fiscal year due to an expected increase in inmates under the new penalties.
**Expert Concerns and Uncertainties**
Caitlin O’Neil from the legislative analyst’s office highlighted the challenges in assessing the full impact of Proposition 36 since it is still in its early stages of implementation. She emphasized that the current projections are subject to significant uncertainty, especially given the limited amount of actual data available. Additionally, the Chief Executive Office of Los Angeles County emphasized that it is too early to determine the exact impacts on their budget.
**Advocates’ Perspectives**
Tinisch Hollins from Californians for Safety and Justice and Isa Borgeson from the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights both expressed concerns about the potential erosion of crime prevention programs due to Proposition 36. They fear that locking up more individuals for low-level crimes could strip funding from essential services, hindering efforts to support those in need and reduce involvement in the criminal justice system.
Despite these challenges, Governor Newsom’s office remains optimistic about overall declines in the prison population, even with the projected increase from Proposition 36. The budget indicates a continued downward trend in the population, reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to reform its criminal justice system.
The true impact of Proposition 36 on California’s budget and criminal justice landscape remains to be seen as the law continues to unfold. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation.
