After watching states like Oregon, Colorado and Alaska pass them by, the state of California has finally banded together politically and legalized marijuana for recreational use amongst its citizens.
According to the Los Angeles Times database, Proposition 64 has made California the most populated state in the country to make enjoying Mary Jane at one’s leisure, a legal affair.
“We are very excited that citizens of California voted to end the failed policy of marijuana prohibition,” said Nate Bradley, executive director of the California Cannabis Industry Assn. told the L.A. Times. “Proposition 64 will allow California to take its rightful place as the center of cannabis innovation, research and development.”
Imagine the possibilities…
Of course, there were those public officials who weren’t thrilled by the pending law, namely Chief Ken Corney, the president of the California Police Chiefs Assn.
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“We are, of course, disappointed that the self-serving moneyed interests behind this marijuana business plan prevailed at the cost of public health, safety, and the well-being of our communities,” he said.
“We will take a thorough look at the flaws in Proposition 64 that will negatively impact public health and safety, such as the initiative’s substandard advertising restrictions and lack of prosecutorial tools for driving under the influence of marijuana, and begin to develop legislative solutions.”
Not to be deterred, Lynne Lyman, of the pro-legalization Drug Policy Alliance, called Prop 64 the “gold standard” for other states to follow suit, noting it will still “protect youth” from easily accessing weed.
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The initiative, which will be enforced come January 2017, won’t allow for citizens to just toke in public but it will those who are 21 and up the freedom to “possess, transport and buy up to 28.5 grams of marijuana” while those who like to grow it locally, can have up to six plants. Dispensaries will still operate with a 15 percent tax imposed on sales.
It has been 20 years since The Golden State legalized marijuana for medical use and Prop 64 will seemingly serve as a timely expansion.
