“As Napa County District Attorney and President of the California District Attorneys Association, I am proud of our work in giving voters a chance to approve Proposition 36. It is a critical measure that addresses the escalating issues of homelessness, drug addiction, and theft—issues that impact every Californian, whether in our cities or rural communities. Over the past decade, we’ve seen the unintended consequences of past criminal justice policies like Proposition 47, which has created clear problems around drug addiction and theft. Proposition 36 allows us to make meaningful reforms that hold repeat offenders accountable. Theft rates are up across the state and drug overdose deaths have sadly reached record-high levels. While the Legislature has passed some new laws, more must be done, especially on the issue of drug addiction. Proposition 36 provides that solution.”

– Allison Haley, Napa District Attorney and California District Attorneys Association President

“For years, we have urged policymakers to take meaningful action against the fentanyl epidemic, to protect the lives of our children and loved ones. Yet, time and time again, our efforts have been ignored. One of the key provisions in Proposition 36 is Alexandra’s Law, modeled after the Watson Admonishment for DUI offenders. Just as a DUI driver is warned that future reckless actions could lead to murder charges, Alexandra’s Law would put drug dealers on notice. If they continue to sell deadly drugs like fentanyl and someone dies, they will face serious legal consequences. It’s a matter of common sense. This isn’t about criminalizing addiction—this is about stopping those who knowingly profit from death.”

– Matt Capelouto, President, Stop Drug Homicide

“Many small business owners like myself are facing the same challenges. When theft becomes a daily reality, it’s not just a financial loss; it’s an emotional and psychological toll on every small business owner and their employees. We’re forced to make tough decisions, like moving online or even closing down entirely. Proposition 36 is important to me because it

recognizes that we need to hold habitual theft offenders accountable. By supporting Proposition 36, we can create a safer environment for small businesses to thrive. We can deter repeat offenders, reduce retail theft, and help rebuild the trust and safety that our communities need.”

– Aaron Cardoza, Owner, Mobil Fits

“Losing a child to something preventable is a pain no parent should have to endure. And yet, every day, more families are devastated by the same tragedy as fentanyl continues to flood our communities. Fentanyl is not just another drug; it’s a poison that is claiming the lives of our children, our friends, and our neighbors at an alarming rate. This synthetic opioid is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, and just a small amount can be fatal. Drug markets have evolved, and now, more than ever, we see organized networks trafficking large quantities of fentanyl into our communities. Proposition 36 is not just another policy—it’s a lifeline for our communities. It recognizes the need for a balanced approach: one that offers treatment to those struggling with addiction while also holding those who traffic these deadly substances accountable.”

– Chris Didier, Victims of Illicit Drugs (VOID)

“Proposition 36 aligns with our mission to enhance the quality of life in California’s cities. By reinstating drug courts, it offers an effective way to break the cycle of addiction that often leads to petty theft and other crimes. Proposition 36 gives those in need a chance to receive treatment instead of incarceration, helping them reintegrate into society as productive members. We know addiction drives crime. Petty theft, property crimes, and other offenses are often committed by individuals desperate to support their addiction. Proposition 36 tackles this issue by providing a pathway to recovery and reducing recidivism in our cities. Proposition 36 is an essential step toward reclaiming our streets, reducing crime, and saving lives.”

– Mark Mezzano, City of Redding Councilmember and incoming Public Safety Committee Member of the League of California Cities

“My family suffered the unimaginable loss of a child or loved one due to the fentanyl crisis. This problem, which has become all too real for so many, demands an urgent solution – something that our state-elected leaders have continued to fail to address. It’s why I’m supporting Proposition 36. It’s a measure that represents the hope and resolution that grieving families have been seeking. It is a thoughtful solution that addresses the fentanyl epidemic by ensuring that fentanyl is considered a hard drug, along with cocaine, heroin, PCP, and methamphetamine. Proposition 36 will break the cycle of drug addiction, which leads directly to poverty and homelessness. It will punish drug traffickers, provide resources to those who are struggling, and protect businesses from rampant theft.”

– Pamela Smith, Mothers in Grief Support Group