Proposition 36, the most contentious California ballot measure for November, aims to boost penalties for repeat offenders of theft and drug offenses involving fentanyl. It seeks to undo parts of Proposition 47 by allowing state prison sentences for drug dealers and reinstating penalties for drug-related deaths. Proponents, such as San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, believe the measure offers a balanced approach to sentencing and court-ordered drug treatment to prevent fentanyl-related deaths. They argue that Proposition 36 could reduce incarceration rates and deter criminal behavior before it escalates. However, critics like Mitchelle Woodson of Pillars of the Community argue that the measure could lead to increased incarceration rates, particularly impacting Black and brown communities.
In a separate issue, environmental groups opposing a new landfill in South County are supporting a bill by state Sen. Steve Padilla to block it. Allegations are made that Assemblymember David Alvarez in a neighboring district is trying to oppose Padilla’s legislation, though Alvarez has not responded for comment. The landfill project developer argues San Diego needs more space for waste disposal, but Padilla and critics point to the environmental risks of locating it in the Tijuana Rivershed.
Alvarez was also in the spotlight for withdrawing a bill aimed at promoting affordable housing in the Coastal Zone due to amendments that granted too much authority to the Coastal Commission. The bill would have allowed developers to claim density bonuses for building more units with affordable housing. Alvarez withdrew the bill, stating that the amendments did not align with the original purpose of requiring coastal cities to build more housing.
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Photo credit voiceofsandiego.org
