Proposed Calif. Measure Would Change Crime Classification
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — San Francisco's top prosecutor is seeking to reclassify some crimes that could save money which could be used to fund crime prevention and mental health services.
The San Francisco Chronicle reports that District Attorney George Gascon filed a proposed ballot measure Thursday that would reduce most nonviolent crimes such as petty theft and drug possession from felonies to misdemeanors. The measure needs about 500,000 signatures to qualify for the November ballot.
Supporters estimate the shift could save up to $250 million a year and that money could be earmarked for programs aimed at reducing recidivism.
The proposed measure follows Proposition 36, which was approved by voters and curbs California's Three Strikes law.
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