Romano says he's concerned that re-entry programs are not adequate, especially for the mentally ill. Right now, many prisoners released under Proposition 36 are freed without anyone notifying families or attorneys. Many aren't even given adequate clothing.

Proposition 36 already has saved California more than $30 million in prison costs, Romano says. If it the trend continues, he says the initiative has the potential to save taxpayers more than $750 million over the next 10 years.

Here's Romano's interview with KQED's Mina Kim:

Michael RomanoMichael Romano

Recidivism Rate for Freed Three-Strikers Continues to Be Very Low