Following the overwhelming passage of Proposition 36 and the repeated failure of the state to commit adequate funding for its implementation, Senator Tony Strickland (R-Huntington Beach) has introduced Senate Bill 926 to break the logjam, allowing this important treatment and anti-crime law to be implemented. SB 926 would direct funding from the state’s General Fund into the newly created California Public Safety Services Support Fund, to provide funding for a new approach-centered on supervised treatment services, maximizing impact while maintaining accountability.
“Californians spoke loudly and clearly. Now, Sacramento must deliver,” said Senator Strickland. “This measure passed with strong bipartisan support, with Democrats, Independents, and Republicans demanding safer communities, real accountability, and meaningful treatment options to address addiction and repeat theft. The state cannot ignore a 68% voter-approved mandate, with all 58 counties voting in favor of Prop. 36. SB 926 ensures we follow through and roll up our sleeves to solve these issues.”
All of the California Senate Republican Caucus have joined as coauthors in support of SB 926. As an additional step to secure funding for Proposition 36, Senator Strickland has also submitted a letter to the Senate Budget Committee requesting $400 million through the state budget process. Click HERE to read Senator Strickland’s letter.
“Proposition 36 sent an unmistakable message from every corner of California that we demand real accountability for theft and addiction while providing pathways to treatment, and Sacramento has no right to shortchange its implementation,” said Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson). “SB 926 delivers the critical funding needed to turn that overwhelming voter mandate into safer communities and effective recovery for those struggling with substance abuse.”
“Counties are on the front lines of public safety and behavioral health, and they cannot implement Proposition 36 on promises alone,” said Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta), Vice Chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee. “Voters approved this reform expecting action. SB 926 provides resources counties need to expand treatment, support law enforcement and probation, and deliver the accountability Californians expected."
Background on Proposition 36 (2024):
In the November 2024 General Election, Proposition 36 was approved by more than 68 percent of voters statewide and earned majority support in all 58 counties. The measure strengthened penalties for certain theft and drug crimes. Most significantly, it created a new treatment-mandated felony designed to steer repeat drug offenders into treatment programs while holding them accountable.