Proposition F
Should San Francisco voters approve an ordinance requiring people receiving cash assistance from the city who are suspected of using illegal drugs to undergo screening and mandatory treatment?
Proposition F would allow the city to require welfare recipients to be drug tested and enter treatment programs if they’re suspected of using illegal drugs. About 5,700 people used city welfare last year. If someone declined treatment they would no longer get cash and could be evicted from city housing. Mayor London Breed says she introduced the measure to address the city’s drug overdose crisis. Passes with a simple majority.
Yes Argument
The city needs more tools to compel drug users into treatment, and many refuse treatment when it is offered on a voluntary basis. The measure offers a balance between compassion and accountability. This ordinance would send a message that San Francisco is closed to those who want to freely use drugs on city streets.
No Argument
Public health research shows this measure would increase street homelessness by cutting people off from services, and would have deadly results. The way to curb street drug use is for the city to offer more housing because research shows having a stable living situation makes it easier for people to treat addiction. Resources should go toward expanding drug treatment capacity.
Key Supporters
In Support
- London Breed, mayor, San Francisco
- Filipino American Democratic Club
- San Francisco Council of District Merchants Associations
- Golden Gate Restaurant Association
- Sister’s Circle Women’s Support Network
In Opposition
- San Francisco Democratic Party
- San Francisco Human Services Network
- Roma Guy, former public health commissioner
- Diane Jones, registered nurse
- San Francisco Coalition on Homelessness