Unintended Consequence of Proposition 47 on DUI - Evidence from Los Angeles

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Proposition 47 on driving under influence (DUI) related to drugs within Los Angeles. Results of interrupted time series analysis as well as event study and difference-in-difference analyses indicate a short-term increase in DUI related to drugs to be an unintended consequence of this proposition. In the longer term, there appears to be a declining trend in DUI related to drugs, however, it does not go back to levels that existed prior to the enactment of the proposition. The absence of such trends for DUI related to alcohol corroborate the results.

Keywords: Driving Under Influence, Proposition 47, Unintended Consequence, Policy, Crime

JEL Classification: K14, K42, J18, Z38