California counties stand to save a whopping $159 million per year under new legislation providing prosecutors with the flexibility to charge non-violent, low-level drug offenses as misdemeanors as opposed to felonies.
Authored by Senator Mark Leno, SB 649 would also provide judges with the ability to deem nonviolent drug possession offenses as either felony or misdemeanor based on the defendant’s record and the exact nature of the offense in question.
“We know we can reduce crime by offering low-level offenders rehabilitation and the opportunity to successfully reenter their communities,” Leno said. “But we are currently doing the opposite. We give non-violent drug offenders long terms, offer them no treatment while they’re incarcerated, and then release them back into the community with few job prospects or options to receive an education. SB 649 gives local governments the flexibility to choose reduced penalties so that they can reinvest in proven alternatives that benefit minor offenders and reserve limited jail space for serious criminals.”
U.S. Attorney General “Relaxing” On Small Drug Crimes
The bill follows a momentous announcement this past August by Eric Holder – U.S. Attorney General – informing federal prosecutors to relax on small-time drug crimes, stating:
“ …Certain low-level, nonviolent drug offenders who have no ties to large-scale organizations, gangs, or cartels will no longer be charged with offenses that impose draconian mandatory minimum sentences.”
SB 649 will return to the Senate for a vote prior to landing on California Governor Jerry Brown’s desk.
A recent estimate from the Legislative Analyst’s Office shows that if passed, this piece of legislation would ultimately save California counties up to $159 million per year through the reduction of ineffective prison spending while providing local governments with the ability to dictate resources for drug treatment, probation and mental health services.
In total, 13 states, the federal government and D.C. all currently treat possession as a misdemeanor.
Who SB 649 Wouldn’t Include
SB 649 is not applicable to those involved in possessing, selling or making illegal substances for sale.
“Based on my 35 years in the criminal justice system, including five years presiding over an adult court, I’ve seen firsthand how fundamentally unjust it is for simple possession offenses to be charged as straight felonies when many more serious and harmful offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors,” said Harlan Grossman – Retired Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge.
Looking for a Laguna Beach recovery center? Contact Laguna Beach Recovery today!
The post A New Deal For Californians – SB 649 appeared first on Laguna Beach Recovery.