PROPOSITION 5 COULD SAVE THE STATE MONEY IN THE LONG TERM AND HELP NONVIOLENT DRUG OFFENDERS STAY OUT OF JAIL

Here's another one that asks for millions -- $460 million a year --
from state coffers, with costs that could increase over time to more
than $1 billion a year. But there's a difference.

Unlike Proposition 6, which would put and keep more criminals in jail,
this law would diminish sentences, shorten parole and mandate
probation with treatment instead of jail for nonviolent drug offenders.

Thus, the state's legislative analyst's office said, it could save the
state as much money, especially in prison construction, as it will
cost -- maybe more.

Proposition 5 would give nonviolent youths with drug problems access
to treatment, for the first time in the state, and offer a treatment
diversion program for adults. It would require the prison system to
provide rehabilitation and lawbreakers to pay restitution.

It would also change certain marijuana misdemeanors to
infractions.

The League of Women Voters lauds this initiative for its substance
abuse treatment reforms aimed at youths and for building on
Proposition 36, the 2000 voter-approved initiative that provides
treatment, not jail, for nonviolent drug users.

This is a law that could safely reduce prison overcrowding and
spending.

Vote yes.