California Democrats are largely defending Proposition 47, a 2014 ballot measure that reduced penalties for theft under $950.
While billed as criminal justice reform, critics argue it incentivized property crimes in major cities.
Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed reforms this year but left Prop. 47 intact.
Some legislators want to repeal or modify it due to what many see as a crime wave targeting retailers.
Following Newsom’s direction, Democratic legislative leaders shut down repeal calls.
A new Senate leader introduced reforms targeting auto theft rings and expanding diversion programs.
However, some Democrats say more is needed, like Assemblymember James Ramos’ bipartisan bill raising penalties for repeat shoplifters requiring voter approval.
Ramos argued Prop. 47 needs adjustments as many lawmakers want “the pendulum to swing back to the middle.”
“Prop. 47 needs to have some type of resetting,” Ramos said. “We have the opportunity now to start that dialogue.”
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