Oppose AB 2108 and Respect Proposition 36

I respectfully urge you to oppose AB 2108. California voters approved Proposition 36 because they wanted greater accountability for repeat theft and certain drug offenses after years of concern over rising recidivism, retail theft, and the unintended consequences of earlier criminal justice reforms. The Legislature should respect that decision rather than weaken its practical effect through expanded diversion opportunities for repeat offenders. Diversion can be an appropriate tool for first-time or low-risk offenders, but Proposition 36 already reflects where Californians believe the balance should be struck. Expanding diversion beyond those limits risks reducing accountability for chronic offenders while diminishing the deterrent effect voters sought to restore. Retail theft imposes real costs on California families and businesses. Merchants face higher losses, increased security expenses, rising insurance premiums, and operational challenges that are often passed on to consumers through higher prices. Small businesses, in particular, bear a disproportionate burden and deserve meaningful protection. Drug dealers and drug addicts must be held accountable for their destructive behavior that impacts public safety. Voters will not tolerate open drug markets and will not sit idle as drug dealers profit at the people’s expense! Victims also deserve confidence that repeated criminal conduct will be met with appropriate consequences. Public trust in our justice system depends on laws that are enforced consistently and in accordance with the policy choices made by California voters. I respectfully ask you to vote NO on AB 2108 and uphold the accountability framework Californians approved through Proposition 36. Please stand with victims, small businesses, and the integrity of California’s initiative process. Thank you for your consideration.