Propositions 5 and 6: Law and Order

Hosted by

Proposition 5 on the November ballot, which deals with the criminal justice system, would allocate $460 million a year to improve and expand treatment programs for drug crimes and other offenses. The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst says it would also save a one-time expenditure of $2.5 billion. Proponents call it the "Nonviolent Offender Rehabilitation Act." Opponents call it the "Drug Dealers' Bill of Rights."

Proposition 6 would allocate $965 million a year for law enforcement statewide, create many new crimes and increase penalties, many focused on gangs. Though it would not raise taxes, the non-partisan Legislative Analyst says the additional cost could include $500 million for increased prison construction.

Credits

Guests:

  • Steve Cooley - former Los Angeles District Attorney
  • Margaret Dooley-Sammuli - Deputy campaign manager of Yes on 5, Deputy State director in Southern California for the Drug Policy Alliance
  • Stephen Frank - Former President of the California Republican Assembly; Publisher, California Political News and Views
  • Glenn Backes - Policy Consultant, Ella Baker Center for Human Rights

Host:

Warren Olney