Youth commentary: Passage of Proposition 47 is a good thing

Yesterday Californians cast their votes approving Proposition 47, which will reclassify some non-violent felonies -- including petty theft and drug possession -- as misdemeanors. Youth reporter Dean Welliver participated in efforts to pass the ballot measure. "As someone who believes in giving people second chances and addressing problems at the root of their causes, I believe that Proposition 47 could be a corner stone to handling crime in a more compassionate and effective way." His commentary, called "Why I hope California votes yes on 47," appeared before voting day, on South Kern Sol.