24-48 California Proposition 36 - The Homelessness_ Drug Addiction_ and Theft Reduction Act.pdf

Donny Youngblood 1350 Norris Road, Bakersfield, California 93308-2231 Sheriff-Coroner Telephone (661) 391-7500 TRAINING BULLETIN Issue: 24-48 DATE: December 16, 2024 California Proposition 36: The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act This training bulletin aims to provide law enforcement officers with an understanding of California Proposition 36—the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act. This initiative, passed by voters on November 5, 2024, focuses on addressing the intersection of homelessness, drug addiction, and theft-related offenses. Overview of Proposition 36 The initiative is designed to help reduce the state’s incarceration rates, support individuals struggling with homelessness and substance use disorders, and provide more rehabilitative options for people whose criminal behavior is primarily related to addiction. The law focuses on individuals arrested or charged with minor theft offenses, such as shoplifting or petty theft, often driven by addiction.