Santa Ana City Council supports Proposition 36 to improve public safety and pathways to rehabilitation

The City Council approved a resolution backing the ballot initiative at their September 17 meeting.

SANTA ANA, Calif. - The Santa Ana City Council adopted a resolution by majority vote in support of Proposition 36: the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act Initiative, which will appear on the November 5, 2024, general election ballot.

This resolution approved on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, reflects the City Council's commitment to enhancing public safety while addressing the root causes of drug-related crimes and theft in the community. The resolution highlights the need for effective measures to combat rising concerns regarding theft and drug-related offenses, particularly following the enactment of Proposition 47 in 2014, which reduced penalties for certain crimes.

"Proposition 36 is a necessary step toward restoring public safety and providing rehabilitation opportunities," Mayor Valerie Amezcua said. "By enhancing penalties for repeat offenders and addressing drug distribution with serious consequences, we are taking a comprehensive approach to reduce crime while also offering pathways to recovery for those in need."

Key provisions of Proposition 36 include:

• A new court process for "treatment-mandated felonies," providing rehabilitation treatment options to avoid jail time and allow for the expungement of records.
• Increased penalties for repeat offenders of theft crimes, turning certain misdemeanors back into felonies.
• Stricter consequences for drug-related offenses, mandating state prison sentences for serious drug crimes such as the sale of fentanyl and other dangerous substances.
• Mandating a warning to individuals convicted of drug distribution that they may face murder charges if their actions result in a fatality. This aims to deter illegal drug distribution and prioritize public safety.

The City Council's support of Proposition 36 reflects a dual commitment: to protect the public from serious crime while also addressing the underlying issues of homelessness and drug addiction through treatment and rehabilitation.

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