A bipartisan assembly of state legislators, public safety officials, and victim advocates convened at the State Capitol to acknowledge the initial funding for Proposition 36. They stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to probation and supervision to ensure the measure’s long-term success.
The press conference was attended by several key figures, including State Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), State Senator Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks), Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes, President of the California State Sheriffs’ Association, Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper, Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni, First Vice President of the California District Attorneys Association, San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez, San Joaquin County Probation Chief Jackson, President of the Chief Probation Officers of California, Tulare County Probation Chief Kelly Vernon, El Dorado County Probation Chief Brian Richart, Solano County Probation Chief Dean Farrah, Lake County Probation Chief Wendy Mondfrans, Yuba County Probation Chief Matt Ricardy, Napa County Probation Chief Amanda Gibbs, and Anna Berry from Crime Victims United-California.
“Proposition 36 passed with overwhelming voter support and now it’s time to provide the resources needed to implement it,” stated Senator Catherine S. Blakespear. She emphasized that while this initial investment is a positive step in a challenging budget year, ongoing funding for supervision and accountability is necessary.
Senator Roger Niello expressed concerns about budget priorities: “A budget is an expression of priorities, and the current state budget does not acknowledge the will of the voters who overwhelmingly supported Proposition 36.” He noted that $110 million allocated for Proposition 36 is insufficient for achieving its treatment-focused goals.
The proposed budget includes a one-time funding allocation of $110 million towards Proposition 36. However, public safety officials argue that this amount falls short in addressing accountability measures essential for court-mandated treatment completion. Without adequate funding for law enforcement accountability efforts, they warn that Proposition 36’s success is at risk.
Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes highlighted the need for resources: “We cannot implement Prop 36 effectively if we ignore the reality of what’s happening on the ground.” He pointed out that county sheriffs and probation departments are crucial partners in delivering and enforcing treatment but are currently underfunded.
Public safety officials underscored that restoring cuts to county probation departments is vital as they supervise court-ordered treatment compliance. The Legislature’s budget includes $25 million in ongoing supervision cuts alongside $20 million in pre-trial cuts proposed by the Governor.
Chief Steve Jackson remarked on probation’s role: “Probation ensures people stay on track with their treatment plans and court orders and holds them accountable when they don’t.” He criticized significant cuts to probation funding amidst increased responsibilities.
Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni stressed comprehensive support: “Treatment without accountability isn’t what Prop 36 says – we need to ensure law enforcement has resources it needs to best hold people accountable.” She advocated for supporting all components—courts, probation, law enforcement—not just behavioral health departments.
The Legislature’s proposed state budget overlooks critical elements necessary for successful implementation according to these leaders.
