Cal Cities doubles down on Prop. 36 funding request

By Jolena Voorhis, legislative advocate (public safety)

Cal Cities is urging lawmakers to fully fund Proposition 36. The ballot measure — overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2024 — made changes to drug and property theft crimes and created a new treatment-mandated felony to address a surge in retail theft and shoplifting.

This year, Cal Cities is part of a coalition that includes the Chief Probation Officers of California, the California State Sheriffs Association, and the California District Attorneys Association. The group is requesting funding for probation and other services needed at the local level and has met with lawmakers several times, including Sen. Laura Richardson, who chairs a key budget subcommittee.

Carolyn Coleman, Cal Cities executive director and CEO, last week sent a letter to legislators  urging them to approve a $400 million request from Asm. Stephanie Nguyen and Sen. Catherine Blakespear for probation, accountability, and assessment. Cal Cities also testified in support of the funding during an Assembly Budget subcommittee in mid-March.   

These investments are necessary to expand service capacity, secure in-custody treatment, and allow for individualized planning and monitoring. Absent real consequences and accountability, local governments cannot maximize treatment success, a key goal of Prop. 36.

The Senate Budget Subcommittee #5 on Public Safety will hear the request on April 16. Cities should send letters in support of the $400 million request to their legislators.

Last year, the Legislature provided $100 million for trial courts, behavioral health, and public defenders. While this was a good start, it did not fully fund all the necessary services needed to ensure the successful implementation of Prop. 36.

To learn how to make your voice heard, contact your regional public affairs manager.