The Los Angeles City Council voted to endorse Proposition 36 following a public hearing that included advocates, sentencing attorneys, judges and civil-rights leaders.

Reverend Jesse Jackson urged the council to support the measure and described incarceration for many nonviolent drug offenses as a failing national policy. "We must choose rehabilitation over incarceration," Jackson said during public comment.

Attorney Lawrence Frank and advocate Rita Lowenthal testified in favor, arguing the proposition would create funding for treatment and relieve families affected by incarceration. Lawrence Frank noted the initiative would dedicate an estimated $120 million for drug treatment to serve offenders on parole and their families.

Judge Michael Timon, who presides over drug courts, spoke against the measure and warned that it decriminalizes possession and could be difficult to repeal if problems emerge: "I want more money for treatment. I'm in charge of all the drug courts in Los Angeles County. We desperately need it. The reason this [initiative] has appeal is because the legislature hasn't provided those tools. I would ask you to oppose Proposition 36." Judge Timon said the proposition contained legal flaws and could send the wrong message to vulnerable populations.

Councilmember Nate Holden moved a motion that the council support Proposition 36; the motion passed on a roll call recorded as 10 ayes and 1 no. Councilmembers who spoke during the debate emphasized that drug courts and Proposition 36 address different populations: drug courts reach a small number of offenders (a few hundred) while the proposition aims at a much broader group. Several council members urged tracking implementation and urged the state legislature to refine rules and funding once the initiative is operational.

The council's endorsement is a policy position intended to influence public discussion and statewide implementation should voters approve the ballot measure. Members urged increased funding for clinical treatment and an expansion of drug courts to complement the initiative's aims.