Proposition 36, a voter-approved initiative aimed at increasing penalties for repeat theft and drug offenses, has been criticized for its lack of funding, disproportionate impact on racial and geographic disparities, and failure to provide treatment options, leading to increased incarceration and strain on local justice systems.
California lawmakers have eliminated new funding for the HHAP program in fiscal year 2025–26, potentially halting progress in addressing homelessness and forcing local governments to scale back services and programs.
Proposition 36, a crime and drug treatment initiative passed by California voters, has been met with resistance from Governor Gavin Newsom, who is refusing to allocate new state funding for the measure, citing a budget shortfall and the need for local governments to step up and fund it.