California Puts 3-Strikes Law Up to Vote

Along with a proposition to repeal the death penalty, California is considering another big change on Nov. 6: amending its three-strikes law, Mother Jones reports. If approved, Proposition 36 would only allow hefty sentences to criminals whose third offense is a serious or violent crime. So those convicted of stealing clothes through an open window or a dollar from a parked car—both actual three-strikes crimes—would not have to serve 25 years or more.

Up to 69% of polled Californians back Prop 36, and have many possible reasons: overcrowded prisons, a $28 billion state budget shortfall, a sense of fairness, and support from influential Republicans like Grover Norquist and George Schultz. But opponents note that DAs and judges can already choose not to call a crime a strike. "Prop 36 is kind of like a Pandora's box being opened," says a spokesperson for public safety workers. "These are people with criminal records, and they will prey on the people of California, guaranteed." (More Proposition 36 stories.)