California Counties urge funding allocation for Prop 36 implementation and treatment access

In a pivotal meeting held by the California State Senate on May 15, 2025, discussions centered around the implementation of Proposition 36, which aims to prioritize health over incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as various stakeholders voiced their support for the proposition, emphasizing the need for adequate funding and resources to ensure its success.

Ryan Moore Muni, representing the California State Association of Counties, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from Senate leadership. He highlighted the importance of flexible funding to help counties scale up treatment programs, noting that nearly 70% of Californians voted in favor of Prop 36. "The state budget must reflect the will of the people," he stated, underscoring the diverse starting points of counties in implementing the measure.

Trent Murphy from the California Association of Alcohol and Drug Program Executives echoed this sentiment, urging the legislature to allocate $105 million to expand treatment capacity. He warned that without proper treatment options, individuals with addiction issues would continue to be funneled into the criminal justice system. Murphy stressed that treatment decisions should be made by qualified professionals rather than courts or law enforcement.

However, not all voices were in complete agreement. Capri Walker from Californians for Safety and Justice raised concerns about the lack of an implementation plan for Prop 36. She pointed out that without clear guidelines and accountability measures, it would be challenging to assess whether the initiative is meeting its promises. Walker called for the governor and legislature to collect and report data on the outcomes for individuals impacted by the proposition.

Kate Chatfield, executive director of the California Public Defenders Association, urged lawmakers to invest $120 million in public defender offices to provide holistic defense services. She emphasized that fulfilling the promises of Prop 36 requires a comprehensive approach, including social workers and mental health professionals, to address the root causes of criminal behavior.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions highlighted a collective commitment to transforming California's approach to substance use treatment. The emphasis on health, funding, and accountability reflects a broader movement towards reforming the state's criminal justice system, aiming to create a more compassionate and effective response to addiction. The future of Prop 36 now hinges on the legislature's ability to translate these discussions into actionable policies that resonate with the will of the voters.