Business leaders disappointed City Council won’t support statewide reforms on theft, drug use and mental health
Chamber of Commerce and Visit Long Beach wanted officials to support Prop. 36 but the council shelved the item and took no stance as commercial property crimes soar.
How laws should be enforced has been a hot topic of debate since the passage of Proposition 47 a decade ago. The measure allows some low-level, non-violent felonies to be charged as misdemeanors. In November, voters will decide on an amendment to give more teeth back to law enforcement with Prop. 36.
While the Long Beach City Council often has voiced its support for or opposition to proposed state and federal regulations, members opted to steer clear of the controversial initiative, voting 5-3 to shelve the issue during its Sept. 17 meeting.
Following the decision, the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce released a statement expressing its “disappointment” in the City Council’s decision to not support what it calls “critical reforms” on theft, drugs and mental health.
