If approved, Proposition 34 would repeal the death penalty in California. This proposition would make life imprisonment the harshest sentence in California. This would also go into effect with existing death row inmates as well.

Supporters of the proposition include The American Civil Liberties Union, Mayor of Los Angeles Antonio Villaraigosa and Jeanne Woodford, former warden of San Quentin Prison.

The arguments in favor of the proposition include the argument that the death penalty costs tax payer’s money. Supporters also argue that the death penalty always carries the risk of mistake.

The proposition would also take money and create a fund to help solve murder and rape cases.

“Our limited law enforcement dollars should be used to solve more crimes, to get more criminals off our streets, and to protect our families,” states the website “Yes on 34.”

Opponents of the proposition include former Governor of California Pete Wilson, the Republican Party and County of Sacramento District Attorney Jan Scully. Many family members of murder victims are also speaking against the proposition.

Opponents says the passage can create a “slippery slope” if life in prison becomes the harshest penalty for committing a crime. As of Oct. 14 the supporters of the proposition have raised $6.6 million while the opposition to the proposition has raised $326,700.

A Sept. 23 poll by Los Angeles Times shows that 51 percent of people polled opposed the proposition while 38 percent are in favor.