The most essential role of government is public safety. When state leaders, like Gov. Gavin Newsom, fail to fund what voters mandated, they fail that basic duty.
A year ago this month, Californians sent a clear message at the ballot box: they’re fed up with retail theft, open-air drug scenes, and a justice system that prioritizes criminals over victims. Nearly 70% of California voters in all 58 counties overwhelmingly approved Proposition 36. The ballot measure promised accountability for repeat offenders and treatment for those struggling with addiction. From Marin to Kern County, this anti-crime initiative won support from Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.
A year after voters passed it, there’s been no real investment in Prop. 36 due to Gov. Newsom’s refusal to adequately fund it. During this past budget cycle, I joined my State Senate Republican colleagues in requesting $400 million for implementation. While this amount is a drop in the bucket, it would have been a meaningful first step. However, the governor only allocated one-time funding of a meager $100 million to be spent over three years with no money going towards probation, which is the accountability part of Prop 36. This is woefully inadequate, and frankly, it is a slap in the face to the Californians who passed it.
Why should Sacramento fund it? Once voters approved Prop. 36, it’s the duty of state government to implement it responsibly. That means ensuring a reliable funding source and working with counties on the treatment infrastructure and court capacity required for success. But that hasn’t happened; far from it. As Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes recently stated, “We specifically need state leaders to fund Proposition 36’s treatment-mandated felony programs in order to help those struggling with addiction get the help they need.”
The lack of funding has real consequences. Data shows that 9,000 people have been charged under Prop. 36’s new “treatment-mandated felony.” Yet it is disappointing to learn that only about 1,200 chose treatment, fewer than 800 were placed in programs, and just 25 people statewide have completed treatment. I don’t consider this progress, and neither should you.
The reality is that counties and courts are carrying out the new law without new funding resources. Judges are offering treatment that does not exist. Probation officers and public defenders are overwhelmed. It is obvious that inadequate funding and lack of support shown by the governor is the problem.
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Just as we expect lawbreakers to be held accountable, policymakers should be too. Recently, the Democratic-controlled San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted to allocate local funds to implement Prop. 36. While I commend this bold move, counties shouldn’t have to do it alone.
I remain committed to advocating for the funding necessary to implement the anti-crime initiative. Californians deserve better. It’s time to fund what voters demanded and restore faith in our system.
Tony Strickland represents California Senate District 36.
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