The California State Senate convened on June 13, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary issues, particularly focusing on the funding for Proposition 36, which addresses serial theft and mandates treatment for felony mental illness and substance abuse.

During the session, a senator expressed strong criticism of the current budget, stating that it is "based on hope" and is therefore "destined for trouble." The senator highlighted that the funding allocated for Proposition 36 is insufficient to effectively tackle the issues it aims to resolve, particularly emphasizing the importance of treatment as a key component of the initiative.

The senator pointed out that the budget not only lacks adequate resources for treatment but also reduces funding for probation departments, which are essential for providing supervision and accountability in drug treatment programs. This reduction in funding could undermine the effectiveness of Proposition 36, which relies on the support of probation staff to ensure successful outcomes for individuals undergoing treatment.

A poignant statement was shared from a participant in a drug court program in Riverside County, illustrating the transformative potential of such programs when they are properly funded and supported. The individual recounted their initial skepticism about the program, viewing it merely as a way to avoid prison. However, after a wake-up call during a brief jail stay, they recognized the program's value in providing structure, accountability, and ultimately, a path to recovery.

The senator concluded by stressing that inadequate funding and reduced support for probation services are detrimental to the lives of individuals struggling with addiction. They argued that the current budgetary decisions are failing to provide the necessary resources to help people improve their lives and escape the cycle of addiction.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for a reevaluation of budget priorities to ensure that essential programs like Proposition 36 receive the funding and support they require to be effective.