Chico Times

SACRAMENTO – Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher issued a statement today regarding the failure of Governor Gavin Newsom's attempt to introduce a competing ballot measure against the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act.

“Here’s the real truth: Newsom didn’t have the votes and the measure had serious flaws because it was drafted last minute,” said Gallagher. “I want to thank my colleagues in the Legislature for recognizing this and ultimately stopping this measure from advancing.”

Gallagher emphasized that legislators had developed their own retail theft package through a transparent process with bipartisan support. He stated, “Together, we as legislators have crafted a retail theft package to be proud of. It went through a transparent process, has bipartisan support and will provide much-needed public safety reforms.”

“These bills are 100% our work, not the governor’s. As Newsom gets on a plane to DC, he has shown where his priorities are, and they are not here in California,” Gallagher continued. “We will be here working to solve the problems that face our state.”

Gallagher concluded by highlighting an upcoming initiative: “And in November, the voters will be able to weigh in on the initiative to increase penalties for thieves and fentanyl dealers. That’s how real democracy works.”