A political fight over public safety in California is intensifying as Democratic leaders try to negotiate a reform of Proposition 47 off the November ballot. Prop 47 has faced criticism for relaxing penalties for drug and theft crimes. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and Senate Pro Tempore Mike McGuire claimed two proposals could conflict legally, while legislative officials say five of the 14 bills might conflict, and the rest represent ideological differences. Proponents of the ballot initiative call it the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act and say there is no conflict. Bills in the package include an increase in penalties for fentanyl dealers and manufacturers while also mandating additional prison time for those convicted of theft three times. The reform initiative combines bills from both Democrats and Republicans.
