A measure that would mandate more jail time for certain crimes – like smash-and-grabs and certain drug offenses – is one step closer to being on the November ballot.
KNX News’ Emily Valdez reported that members of Californians for Safer Communities, which consists of parents, business owners, and elected officials, turned in 900,000 signatures to get the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act on the ballot. The measure needs about 550,000 verified voter signatures.
“These people, they find easy targets, easier targets. They see expensive things in the windows and they take advantage. A lot of small businesses are underinsured or not insured at all,” Greg Morena, President of the Blue Wave Democratic Club, said.
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The measure would also give hard drug users the option to receive treatment instead of jail time.
The group said this measure is in response to Prop 47, which was passed in 2014 and reduced punishments for property and drug crimes.
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