RIVERSIDE – The Californians for Safer Communities Coalition has announced the submission of over 900,000 voter signatures to qualify the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act for the November General Election ballot.
DA Hestrin, expressing gratitude for the public's support, emphasized the importance of prioritizing community safety through the proposed ballot measure. Hestrin stated, "We must prioritize the safety of our communities. This proposed ballot measure does just that, fixing prior legislation that has harmed public safety. I am grateful for the public’s support of signing ballots to qualify this essential bill onto the ballot.”
The bipartisan measure aims to enhance safety across all communities in California by targeting repeat offenders of theft and drug traffickers. It focuses on accountability for serious drug crimes like fentanyl while promoting participation in drug treatment programs. Hestrin reiterated, "It is time for common sense reforms that hold people accountable for their criminal behavior and ensure justice for our community members.”
Highlighting the need for reforms to address unintended consequences of past legislation, the coalition aims to correct issues such as repeat retail theft and challenges in accessing drug and mental health treatment. The proposed ballot measure intends to create accountability for offenders, incentivize individuals to seek treatment, and ensure community safety.
The initiative seeks to hold accountable those involved in repeated retail theft and fentanyl sales, address the rise in smash-and-grab incidents, and provide support for individuals to access drug treatment and job training programs.
To learn more about the initiative, visit www.CASafeCommunities.com.