LA County Leaders Demand Full Prop 36 Funding from Governor Newsom

Call for Increased Prop 36 Funding

• 🚨 LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman is demanding that California Governor Gavin Newsom fully fund voter-approved Proposition 36.
• 💡 Prop 36, passed by nearly 70% of Californians last November, aims for tougher penalties for theft and drug crimes.
• 💰 Supporters argue that the $110 million allocated by the governor is insufficient, falling far short of the $400 million needed to implement the law effectively.

Impact of Underfunding

• 📉 DA Hochman states that without adequate funding, the implementation of Prop 36 is significantly slower.
• 🗣️ Residents at a town hall in Torrance expressed anger that their tax dollars are not being used to fulfill the promises of Prop 36.
• 📍 Local crime issues, including break-ins and a recent homicide, are highlighted as reasons why Prop 36 funding is critical for public safety.

Criticism of Governor Newsom

• 🎯 Leaders criticize the governor for prioritizing other political projects over public safety needs and refunding essential services.
• 🚔 While Governor Newsom has ordered the CHP to assist local authorities, DA Hochman is urging him to allocate funds towards mental health and drug addiction treatment beds.
• ⚖️ The DA's office has filed approximately 3,000 Prop 36 cases so far, underscoring the need for continued support.

Governor's Office Response

• 📊 A spokesperson for the governor's office stated that public safety is a priority and that California has invested $1.7 billion in public safety initiatives, suggesting Prop 36 is not the sole focus.