What does Gov. Newsom’s homeless ballot initiative mean for the Central Valley? What to know about Prop. 1
The two-part initiative would change how mental health services funding can be used by counties and approve a $6.4 billion bond to build treatment facilities and housing.
By MARIJKE ROWLAND
marijke@cvlocaljournalism.org
When Californians cast their votes for the March 5 primary, they will see only one statewide initiative on the ballot.
How voters decide on Proposition 1 will help shape the state’s policy toward fighting homelessness and providing mental health for years to come.
Supporters have said it will address the “sickest of the sick” among the state’s unhoused population, and help ease the state’s homeless problem by focusing on getting those people off the streets, as well as helping homeless veterans.
Opponents have said it will transfer money away from services that keep people out of homelessness in the first place, thus possibly exacerbating the state’s problems. They also say it’s an inefficient way to address the root causes of homelessness in California.
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