Proposal to Legalize Marijuana is On the Ballot in California
A high-profile initiative known as the “Tax Cannabis Act” received enough signatures this week to qualify for California’s November ballot. If approved by voters, it would be the first instance in the United States in which marijuana was legalized for recreational use by adults.
In 1996, California became the first state to legalize the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. The ballot measure would allow adults age 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of marijuana. Moreover, residents would be permitted to cultivate a personal garden of marijuana plants in areas measuring up to 25 square feet.
Supporters of the measure point out that the proposal would ban the smoking of marijuana in public or in the presence of minors, and that it would be illegal to have the drug on school property or to operate a vehicle under the influence of marijuana. The same supporters are also quick to mention that passage of the measure could save the cash-strapped state $200 million per year by lowering certain public safety expenses and generating substantial tax revenue.
However, there is noteworthy public opposition to the initiative. For example, many (but not all) law enforcement agencies, as well as some concerned citizens groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and significant political figures including gubernatorial hopeful Jerry Browne, and President Barrack Obama, publicly oppose the measure.
Regardless of the outcome of the November election, it is important to always know your rights regarding marijuana possession in Los Angeles and throughout the state of California.
Of note is also the fact that, despite the outcome of the November election, federal drug laws will remain unaffected. This means that what is legal in California may, in fact, be prohibited by federal law. This would undoubtedly create great confusion and apprehension among California’s recreational marijuana users.
At the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf, we are available to advise you of your rights and responsibilities, both at the state and federal levels. Whether you have been charged with a drug crime, are being investigated, or merely require counsel as to your existing rights, you will need a competent, thoughtful attorney to guide you. Please contact our outstanding California drug crime defense attorneys at (866) 390-7373 today.
Source Article: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-us-marijuana-legalization,0,2863352.story
