Mayors of San Francisco and San Jose Support Tougher Drug and Theft Penalties in California, US

An effort to increase penalties for drug offenses and thefts in California, which were previously relaxed by Proposition 47, gained support from the mayors of San Jose and San Francisco. The proposed ballot measure, called the November 2024 Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act, is backed by law enforcement officials, retail and business organizations, and crime-victim advocates. Both mayors emphasized the need for change in state laws to address the challenges posed by drug addiction and organized retail theft. Proposition 47, approved by California voters in 2014, aimed to decrease prison overcrowding by reducing drug possession to a misdemeanor and raising the felony threshold for property crimes. Supporters argued that the measure did not lead to an increase in crime, while critics believed that the penalties for conviction were too minor. The debate surrounding the measure’s impact on crime rates continues. Both sides of the argument have garnered significant support over the years, with prominent figures from various political backgrounds expressing their opinions. The November ballot initiative seeks to address the concerns raised since the passage of Proposition 47, drawing attention to the rising number of thefts and drug-related issues in the state. The support from the mayors indicates a growing frustration among Californians and a desire for change. As November approaches, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to the proposed amendments.