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Many in California witnessed firsthand the heightened crime rates, with shoplifters often escaping punishment due to the newly defined laws. Critics of Proposition 47 argued that it effectively invited criminal behavior, as individuals felt empowered to steal without significant repercussions.

Shift in Legislation: Proposition 36

Recognizing the problems that arose from the original proposition, California voters rallied behind Proposition 36. This new measure aimed to restore felony charges for shoplifting and related offenses. A significant majority supported this change, indicating a collective acknowledgment that the prior leniency was misguided.