California Proposition 47, passed in 2014, aimed to reduce certain non-violent crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. This change primarily affected offenses like petty theft, drug possession, and shoplifting, making it easier for individuals to avoid harsh prison sentences and have a chance at rehabilitation. The proposition also redirected savings from reduced incarceration costs towards mental health and drug treatment programs. By focusing on treatment rather than punishment, Proposition 47 sought to improve public safety and reduce recidivism rates among individuals with non-violent offenses.