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Legalizing Marijuana in California: The Debate Continues
An initiative to legalize marijuana will appear on CA's November ballot. Supporters emphasize that legalization will raise revenue. Opponents argue that legalization will lead to an increase in crime.
April 24, 2010 /Medical Products PR News/ -- Legalizing Marijuana in California: The Debate Continues
Nearly 700,000 signatures were collected from almost every county in California in order to qualify an initiative that would legalize marijuana within the state's borders for the November ballot. Though the initiative would ultimately defy federal laws that make the possession and sale of marijuana a crime, discussion surrounding the initiative will at minimum place California once again squarely in the spotlight of the national drug debate.
The Initiative
The "Regulate, Control and Tax Cannabis Act" would legalize marijuana sales, possession, use and cultivation, subject to certain restrictions. Adults over the age of 20 would be allowed to possess up to an ounce of marijuana for their own personal use. However, only licensed retailers would be authorized to sell the drug and the Act would ban use in public and around minor children. The Act would also allow certain adults to grow up to 25 square feet of marijuana per residence/parcel. Growers, buyers and retailers would be taxed on their activities.
Money, Money, Money
Supporters of the initiative are directing their campaign towards those voters whose primary concerns stem from the state's financial woes. California's budget crisis could be eased, supporters say, by tax revenue from legalized marijuana to the tune of $1 billion annually. Additionally, legalization could free law enforcement to focus on violent crime and ease overcrowding in the state's prisons.
Strategists argue that while the majority of Californians will not choose to grow, sell or use marijuana, many swing voters are likely to be swayed by the benefits of easing budgetary strain. A 2009 Field poll indicates that roughly 56 percent of Californians already support legalization.
The Opposition
Though a slim majority of Californians support legalization, the initiative's future is by no means certain. A large coalition of opposition, spearheaded by several law enforcement groups, has already begun to raise its voice. Those that oppose the initiative insist that any tax revenue raised from legalization activities will be directed at marijuana-related crime. Additionally, some have expressed concerns that legalizing marijuana will increase rates of job absenteeism, while others claim that plans to legalize marijuana do not consider concerns about drug dependency and increased potency.
Ultimately, only time will tell what will happen to the current marijuana laws in California. Both those supporting changes and opposing changes are likely to be out in full force over the next few months, making their positions clearly heard.
In the meantime, though, the existing laws remain in full effect. If you or someone you know has been accused of any crime involving marijuana, speak with an experienced criminal defense and drug offense lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Article provided by Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff LLP
Visit us at www.formerdistrictattorneys.com
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