California voters will soon decide the fate of Proposition 36, weighing whether to roll back criminal justice reforms from a contentious 2014 ballot measure that lessened the penalties for some crimes including theft and drug possession.

Proposition 36, one of this year’s most high-profile and divisive ballot measures in California, has been approved by voters with overwhelming support. The law will enact harsher penalties for repeat theft and drug crimes,

This proposition would allow for felony charges for certain drug and theft crimes if the defendant has two prior convictions for these offenses.

Supporters of Prop. 36 say it would help the state address homelessness, drug addiction and retail theft. Its critics call it a return to the failed policies of the war on drugs.

Californians easily passed Proposition 36 Tuesday night, with more than 70% voting to strengthen penalties for retail and drug crimes that were downgraded a decade ago. Supporters say tougher consequences are needed to reduce homelessness, drug use and ...

Proposition 36 would make shoplifting a felony for repeat offenders and increase penalties for some drug charges, including those involving fentanyl.

Proposition 36 asks California voters to increase the penalties for fentanyl dealers and theft crimes by reclassifying some that are currently misdemeanors as felonies. See results here.