A majority of Californians favor reinstating felony theft penalties prior to the public ballot.

Nearly three-quarters of California residents support modifying "Prop 47," a 2014 public vote that decreased penalties for theft, forgery, and drug crimes.

The crime wave in urban areas of the state has been attributed to the current policy, which classifies shoplifting under $950 as a misdemeanor by critics.

A poll by the Public Policy Institute of California found that 71% of likely voters plan to vote "yes" on "Prop 36," which aims to make changes.

The Inland Empire, located east of San Diego and adjacent to Arizona, had the highest level of support at 79%, while the Bay Area had the lowest support at 64%.

According to a poll that met Planet Chronicle' polling standards, 63% of Democrats and 85% of Republicans back Prop 36.

The California Department of State states that Prop 36 will increase the penalties for fentanyl dealers and allow for felony charges for certain drug possession and thefts under $950 if the defendant has two prior convictions of the same type.

According to the department's "Fiscal Impact" section, approving Prop 36 could result in millions of dollars in "state criminal justice costs."

According to CDOS, Crime Victims United and the California District Attorney's Association are prime supporters, while Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton is among the opponents.

Over 1,000 likely voters participated in a poll conducted from Aug. 29 to Sept. 9.

In July, two Democrats, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire, introduced Prop 36.

McGuire stated that Californians desire safer and stronger communities, which is precisely what they are achieving through their practical approach.

"The proposed measures aim to combat retail theft and punish offenders for serious drug crimes, without resorting to the harsh policies of the past that harmed communities of color and drained taxpayers' funds."

Planet Chronicle Digital also reached out to California Republicans for comment.

The survey director of the PPIC stated to the Sacramento Bee that Prop 36 is receiving the most attention among the 10 ballot initiatives set for November.

Mark Baldassare stated that Proposition 36, which pertains to crime sentences, is the most supported, significant, and relevant among the 10 state propositions.