Public support for California’s Prop. 19 — which would legalize the private adult use and cultivation of limited amounts of cannabis, and allow local governments the option of regulating its commercial production and retail distribution — is up significantly, according to the latest statewide Field Poll, released on Sunday.
According to the Poll, 49 percent of respondents say that they would vote ‘yes’ on 19 ‘if the election were being held today.’ 42 percent say that they would vote ‘no.’
Self-identified Democrats, men, and non-partisan voters were most likely to back the measure.
The latest Field Poll numbers mark a significant improvement from the firm’s previous poll, conducted in July, which reported only 44 percent of respondents voting ‘yes’ and 48 percent voting ‘no.’
Two additional polls released last week also emphasize voter support for Prop. 19. A September 22 Public Policy Polling firm survey of 630 likely California voters found 47 percent of likely voters backed 19, versus 38 percent against. The most recent Survey USA poll of 569 California adults reported similar support, with 47 percent of respondents saying that they were ‘certain’ to back the measure, versus 43 percent opposed.
PollTracker.com, a website that posts aggregates results of all of the polls conducted on this issue to date shows Prop. 19 leading by 47 percent to 40 percent.
Speaking of Prop. 19, Dave Borden, Executive Director of StoptheDrugWar.org, recently posted an excellent commentary on the Huffington Post rebutting the myth that passage of Prop. 19 would somehow undermine medical marijuana in California. NORML has addressed this minority (and fallacious) opinion numerous times on this site and on the Audio Stash blog, but Dave really hits it out of the park here.
Prop 19 Would Help — Not Hurt — Medical Marijuana Patients
[Excerpt: Read the full text HERE.]
via Huffington PostAre they misinformed or deliberately lying? I don’t know anymore.
A group of medical marijuana dispensaries organized as the California Cannabis Association has come out against Prop 19, California’s “Tax and Regulate Cannabis” initiative to legalize marijuana.
The coalition claims that Prop 19’s provisions giving local jurisdictions the power to regulate cannabis sales, including the right to choose whether to allow commercial or other outlets, would enable them to prohibit the sale of medical marijuana to patients, something that under California they currently can’t do.
… The claim is completely false.… Fortunately, only some medical marijuana people are so shortsighted as to oppose this historic and important measure. Harborside Health Center in Oakland, and the Berkeley Patients Group are among the top quality groups lending their support to Prop 19. But it’s still worth asking, why are some other medical marijuana providers opposing it?
… I say enough is enough. Whether they are doing it deliberately, or out of deliberate ignorance, they should stop spreading misinformation about Prop 19. Shame on the California Cannabis Association. And YES on PROP 19!
I also have added my two cents to this ongoing debate. In particular, I’ve addressed the allegation expressed by the so-called ‘Stoners against Prop. 19‘ (and repeated by others) that argues, “Simply put, the Regulate, Control and Tax Cannabis Initiative does not reflect most people’s ideas of what legalization would be.” Perhaps that may be true for a minority of reformers. But the conflict doesn’t lie with Prop. 19; it lies with some people’s ‘idea of what legalization should be.’
Coming to Terms With Taxation, Regulation, and California’s Prop. 19
[Excerpt: Read the full text HERE.]
via HighTimes.comThis November, California voters will decide on Proposition 19, which seeks to enact the most far-reaching marijuana law reforms anywhere in the United States. The immediate effect of Prop. 19, if passed, would be to provide legal protection to the individual marijuana consumer – that is the estimated 3.3 million Californians who are presently using marijuana for non-medical purposes.
Yet as is apparent by the criticism voiced by some, there’s a minority of folks who wish to define cannabis legalization unconventionally. They would prefer that legalization be characterized as the absence of any regulation whatsoever. It’s ironic because, in truth, it is the present criminal prohibition of cannabis that is an unregulated free for all. Conventional legalization is just the opposite.
It is counter-intuitive for some critics of Prop. 19 to advocate that marijuana be treated in a ‘legal’ manner, but then at the same time demand that it not be subject to regulation. Bottom line: all legal commodities are regulated in some manner and their retail production or sale is subject to taxation.
For example, cell phones are legal to possess and use in California, but if an individual uses his or her cell phone while driving they are subject to legal sanctions and intervention by law enforcement.
Possessing domesticated pets is legal in California and elsewhere, yet certain apartments and home rentals forbid tenants from having pets on the premises. Certain localities have even barred adults from possessing certain pets (e.g., pit bulls) all together.
Water is legal, but it’s a product that is highly regulated by the government. The state taxes private individuals’ water use; it can add components like fluoride to the product without voter consent, and it can even sanction the private individual if their water use is greater than that deemed appropriate by the government (in times of water rationing). Yet, even with these rules and regulations, is there any organized outcry from the public claiming that water, pets, or cell phones ‘aren’t really legal?’
Ditto for the subject of taxation. Gasoline is taxed at the state level, federal level, and there’s also an excise tax that is passed on to the consumer. Same with alcohol. There are a multitude of taxes that are charged to the consumer on his or her phone bill. How about the taxes tacked on to airline travel, which equal nearly 25 percent of the consumer’s total purchase price? The number of specific taxes and regulations sought to be imposed upon marijuana under Prop. 19 are arguably minimal in comparison to the taxes and regulations on many commodities consumers already use every day. In fact, under the proposition, an adult can grow marijuana themselves and avoid any taxes all together.
Is there the possibility that under Prop. 19 some local governments might seek to over-regulate or over-tax certain aspects of the plant’s use or retail distribution? Of course. [Editor’s note: And that is why reformers will continue to need to be involved in the local democratic process after 19 passes.] But ultimately, the question is: what is the preferable policy for adult marijuana use – not the Utopian. Right now the state has the power of a gun to seize an adult’s marijuana – even marijuana that is used in the privacy of one’s home – and to sanction that adult with criminal prosecution and a criminal record if their use is for non-medical purposes. Under Prop. 19, an individual would no longer face these criminal sanctions for their private activities, as long as their private use was limited to possession and cultivation within certain limits. That is legalization. And in NORML’s opinion, that is a net gain – not a net loss.
California and Californians have an appointment with history soon.
All eyes are on California waiting for the outcome to Prop.19
As a Canadian, and Canadians are very famous throughout the world for their wait and see attitude,I can only wait and see.With the Conservatives and Mr.Harper in power that’s the rule : wait and see. Wait for Californians to legalize and see the results of marijuana legalization.I hope Marc Emery is returned to Canada in the process.
All I can say to all of this is go vote for Prop 19 in CA! Tell your non-toking friends to do so too if they want to rescue the state’s budget. I, for one, know at least a dozen people who are waiting to see how the vote before deciding whether to go on a Canadian ski vacation or a California beach vacation this winter. Upset about empty hotels and restaurants? Fill them up and get them paying taxes again by supporting 19.
Hi there…great work with the continued effort to debunk the No-on-19ers. 🙂
I’ve recently heard pessimistic comments by the folks at Marijuana Radio. Essentially, they are under the impression that organizations like NORML, MPP, and DPA endorse Prop 19 because it will put them in a position to profit from it. I know that MR is in favor of legalization; however, their distrust of our Govt (even State Govts) is dominating their opinion of Prop 19. It appears that their concerns are: 1) Fear that Prop 215 will be negated; 2) too loose interpretation of “space” with regards to minors; and 3) corporate monopolies that will take over MJ production/distribution. I think NORML gets lumped into the last one.
Would it be possible for Russ, Allen, or Keith to become a guest on their show (SOON) and set the record straight? MR has a lot of listeners, many of which are Californians, who must be educated regarding the realities of Prop 19.
Best,
Charlie
[Editor’s note: A number of NORML staffers have been guests on Marijuana Radio and they’d all welcome the chance to be on again to encourage all of their listeners to support Prop 19 and to relate that self-evidently NORML has no financial stake in growing, marketing or selling cannabis–NORML is a non-profit public interest advocacy organization that is supported only by members’ donations.
While Prop 19 is not a perfect reform vehicle, Marijuana Radio’s three stated concerns are not valid or are already in effect under medical cannabis, and don’t warrant actually voting ‘no’ to legalization on Prop 19 and ‘yes’ to the continued arrests, prosecutions and incarcerations of hundreds of thousands of cannabis consumers in CA.]
I can’t believe after all these years of hoping, praying and working towards some kind of reform, that there are people who would actually vote NO on Prop 19 because it’s not a perfect bill. Well, good luck finding a more perfect bill than this!! HINT: It ain’t happening!
do you people really think that the landlords will be ok with this why dont you go and ask them have you ever seen the inside of a grow room hello.. it turns it to crap do you think they will allow this no you need there permisssion read this thing dont be childish about it 20012 will be a better prop we should wait it will be better…….
[Editor’s note: Your comment is too strange to directly address…but suffice of to say if Californians do not vote in the majority for Prop. 19, reformers will right back at the polls in 2012…Californians are going to vote to end cannabis prohibition be it this election, or one soon to come.]
Legal marijuana is coming to America and there’s nothing anyone can do about it. The prohibitionists had better prepare for reality as well as the truth. You’ve been shoving your false propaganda down our throats for years, now it is our turn.
Oh no,
marijuana may cause a mass hysteria/
can grow boobs, but also beware of laws/
that will incarcerate and devastate/
become hella lazy and overweight/
will cause cancer at a crazy pace/
prop. 19 is out of place, a failed race/
but don’t forget that you may just lose your life/
marijuanas more addictive then others, might as well use a knife/
hahhaaa.
thats what they say well i do to
hahahha
really its not bad look at me instead of him and F*** u/
hahhaa
really now weed is from the earth “put here 4 u and me”/
This is called god to some countries, the benefits obsolete/
a crime for some, some who lost but on the struggle to have won/
one’s a lonely number so lets all get up and vote some/
why, because it’s just plain ridiculious/
these are my rights, my world, same s***/
so I’m gonna sit back and grow fat ti**/
while you stay on your hating game coming up with fake ad-libs/
legalize marijuana I know u wanna for the world there’s a lotta, not a lotto, but moneys the problem, my rights they rob ’em/ while they rape I’ll smoke and dodge them, as they did/ but mine’s a victimless crime, over-reated!!/
.
Have you wondered
Paul Armentano
If you were The President Of The United States
You have my vote
Thanks
Give Prposition 19 a Chance
– John Lennon
Ev’rybody’s talkin’ ’bout
Bagism, Shagism, Dragism, Madism, Ragism, Tagism
This-ism, that-ism, ism ism ism
All we are saying is give peace a chance
All we are saying is give peace a chance
(C’mon)
Ev’rybody’s talkin’ ’bout
Minister, Sinister, Banisters and Canisters,
Bishops, Fishops, Rabbis, and Pop Eyes, Bye bye, Bye byes
All we are saying is give peace a chance
All we are saying is give peace a chance
(Let me tell you now)
Ev’rybody’s talkin’ ’bout
Revolution, Evolution, Masturbation, Flagellation, Regulation,
Integrations, mediations, United Nations, congratulations
All we are saying is give peace a chance
All we are saying is give peace a chance
Ev’rybody’s talkin’ ’bout
John and Yoko, Timmy Leary, Rosemary,
Tommy Smothers, Bobby Dylan, Tommy Cooper,
Derek Taylor, Norman Mailer, Alan Ginsberg, Hare Krishna
Hare Hare Krishna
All we are saying is give peace a chance
All we are saying is give peace a chance
Dear Bill, Have you noticed? The smirks are gone. Newscasts featuring the many LEAP speakers personally supporting Prop 19 in California are treating this as a normal, mainstream policy debate! Nearly all gone are the knowing chuckles, bad puns and dismissive looks. Instead, legalization is getting a full, respectful hearing. This is unprecedented. And it’s evidence of a strong showing – dare we hope victory – in November, which was unthinkable less than a year ago. We made this happen. We put former drug warriors with impeccable credentials and media savvy in front of the mainstream media, and they are firmly, credibly disarming the critics. Our speakers are dominating the California media on CBS, MSNBC, Fox News, Time, AP and many other media outlets. They are dismantling our opponents’ strongest card-the formerly solid, now crumbling wall of law enforcement gravely warning of imminent disaster from legalization. They are stripping drug warriors of their fig leaf of respectability, exposing their distortions and scare tactics for what they are. They are changing minds and votes. Our speakers have done us proud. And since your support made this possible, you have done us proud. Of course, you know what it takes to keep up this level of pressure. And you know how very close we are to seriously altering the landscape for drug policy reform in America. We need to raise $19,000 in 19 days, and generous donors have offered to match your gift dollar for dollar up to that amount! Give because you agree with the law enforcement officials who are sick and tired of the fruitless drug war – and want as many people as possible to hear their message. Your donation will be matched. Our law enforcement professionals are dominating the airwaves. As our parents and grandparents used to say, “keep ’em flying!” Sincerely, Major Neill Franklin (Ret.), Executive Director P.S. If all this weren’t enough, we have been instrumental in moving both the California NAACP and the National Black Police Officers Association to support Prop 19! Our reach, impact and potential are increasing, thanks to your generous support. Your donation puts LEAP speakers in front of audiences. To support LEAP’s work by making a contribution, please click here . 121 Mystic Ave. Suites 8&9 Medford, MA 01255 (781) 393-6985 info@leap.cc You received this e-mail because you are a supporter of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition. We need help growing our all-encompassing movement of citizens who want to end the failed “war on drugs,” so please invite your family and friends to learn about LEAP. Click here if you no longer wish to receive e-mail from us.
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Wow! That is great news. I have been following this report all weekend. Now what will happen if prop 19 passes Nov 2nd? Will people be able to go and by what they want lets say Nov 3rd or 4th? Just wondering whats next if it passes. I live in Colorado and I think our turn for a legalization vote is coming in 2012. I would like to know what to expect. Thanks Norml for working so hard bring us updated information nearly everyday. You guys are AWESOME!!!!!
Now this is the way to go forth. The percent is climbing great news! We have them on the run for the first time in a very long time. I love the fact that CA is leading the way. CA cannabis victory is a victory in every State, it will be a victory for the entire Nation. There will be parties in ever town in America once the State of CA whips back the chains that have for so long violated our Constitution. Your the tip of the Sworn CA and it is our hope that when the vote is counted it will have been a historical turnout of voters and that we win this victory with a landslide of vote for Prop 19.
Please do not stop now, contact everyone you know, give ever non-supported the DVD, “What If Cannbis Cures Cancer” and lets peaceful win their vote too come November 2nd. This is the time not to be cheap, people have gone to prison defying this unjust law on cannabis and many more have died because they did not know it cures cancer. Yes I said it, it not theory, when something can be reproduced over and over again, like dropping a ball, it falls, fact. Well Cannabis kills cancer cells, Fact like the ball falling.
How many of you out who have encountered cannabis walked away thinking there is some more here. There is!, You were right to defy this unjust law and in November we will tell the world that the American have had enough! We want, we are taking back what is our State by State and we will not stop until we have liberty and freedom in our Nation again.
CA Citizens are brave and bold, progressive in so many ways. You are the tip of the sword, your vote will bring back the American Dream, that we can root out evil an intolerance by refusing to yeild to unjust action of a few government employees.
Don’t forget to VOTE, fire those dumbasses and grant liberty back to the people.
Love CA People!!!!
In fact, under the proposition, an adult can grow marijuana themselves and avoid any taxes all together.
Not entirely true! You would have to pay tax on EVERYTHING but the sunshine to grow it! Like you said water also garden supplies,good potting soil and the list could get quite long. Its just like brewing your own beer. There is still a little tax!
Please California pass vote yes on prop 19 so we american citizens can start to get our freedom and liberties back.It is up to you make us proud to Americans
Sounds like the California Cannabis Association need to back off a bit on what ever they are consuming. Making it legal for all will not make it legal for patience.
Seriously, If your ,as and adult, can legally grow your own, so will med patience and those who dont wont be in short supply…. puff puff give. Dont bogart that joint my friend..!
Correction:
(Making it legal for all will not make it *illegal* for patience.)
FFF.
i really hope that prop 19 passes in california and across the united states i live in ohio and it is a 100 fine and classified as an infraction or misdemeanor but you see thats not good enough because even if you get caught with a joint at home, the state takes your drivers license and now most companies are going random with the drug testing, the govt. is pulling out all the stops to win this war on pot i guess after 30 years i will be forced to quit smoking or be unemployable good luck calif.on prop 19
wow, I still cant come to terms with being able to buy canna from coffee shops and possessing and smoking it with my buddies openly..
the prohibitionists will never allow us to use pot even if prop 19 passes and it is so crazy for pot not to be legal they keep spreading the lies from washington its not a free america any more
Somebody, please, tell me it ain’t so. Cannabis dispensaries, betraying their own kind, their own customers, by spreading disinformation about Prop 19… out of selfish greed… because they think may lose a certain percentage of sales… Not only is that short-sighted, but it is unethical behavior. Typical businessmen trying to protect their monopoly out of greed, with no concern for the public interest. I hope the voters are wise enough to make the right choice, which is for freedom.
Damn 42 percent still say no which is quite a bit. It looks like it can sway either way. I hope that this passes. Peter Tosh and Bob Marley are going to be on all day for me on November 2nd.
Re: 21
Rick, why are you so pessimistic about this? You do understand what it means when a law is passed, right? I still don’t understand the phrase “not a free america ‘anymore.’ What exactly are you talking about when you say ‘anymore’? Give an example please.
I would think you would be celebrating this latest news.
I’m happy to read that legalization is getting a serious consideration. I only wish it could be in a state that would manage it better. CA has managed to mishandle medicinal use and could wind up improperly regulating a blanketed control so badly that it might create a huge back lash. There are other states I would rather see it legalized in first and then let the domino effect begin.—-NORML Member
Ya know, i think norml has made an unmeasurable impact that, looking back, changed my temperament completely. I used to smoke pot, and all my buddies did, whn i was a teen, but even my die hard pothead buddies wouldnt ever get serious about legalization. Like it was a dream that aint even worth talking, but it always felt like more to me. In fact where i live, Indiana, makes you REALLY feel singled out, like your ideas are completely wrong. Then i started logging on once in a while to norml.org, now i log on everyday. And having such an ample source of information about things going on across the united states, not to mention the comments left by all you guys, well the ones who make sense and arent just logging in to be “part of something” really helped me to realize the truth about herb. Marijuana seems to be synonymous with humans, and in my point of view, being high should not be grouped into the same mental category as the term intoxication. Its a much more profound experience, it just kind of lets more in. I believe this plant will be legalized soon regardless of what anyone says or thinks, and if people were smart theyd start getting business degrees and relevant experience, cuz there is going to be a huge new job market being created in a decade or less, and im not saying every sally jim and sue should grow, then growing will turn corporate and be ruined, but rather grow to specialize, grow to expand the species, grow to amaze ppl, dont grow for profit.
This is what I want to hear. I might have to move to Cali if you guys pass prop. 19!
None of this would of happened without the generous support of N.O.R.M.L. in bringing us the facts & letting us people post the truth , not lies on your blog .
I saw one row of Kellogs Corn Flakes ” not sold ” at the grocery store & other brands ” sold ” .I guarantee you one thing , Kellogs will never tell you we’re winning this war .
Last night i was in complete disbelief seeing a 20 yr. old on ” Cops ” being treated like he just shot 2 innocent people and this was over a small bag of weed . I was shocked to see that anything this barbaric still goes on not only in the U.S. but in the World .
Yes on 19 & the legalization thereafter will hopefully put a dent in such stupid uncalled for ridiculousness .
Remember folks : A yes for Whitman this November will only continue the arrests & mass killings not only in Cali. but on our entire Western Continent .
Wishing everyone the Best
! Anonymously yours ,from , Southern Cali .
We are winning you, I and yes those in Government know it too. The lie they told so long ago is much like the rest of the infarstructure our government put in place. Bridges, damms, roadways, leavies, sewage, gas,and water pipes are all failing, so is it with their Constructive Fraud.
We are going to watch history happen, we will see people take back what was theirs in the first, LIBERTY and the right to choose for themselves.
CA is the tip of the sword, go forth and vote, win this by a landslide.
Hay Mr. President will you still laugh at us then?
We are going to take back our liberty state by state. This election will could see a few more States start the process CA did in the late 90s.
I never thought I would live to see the starting of the end of Cannabis prohibition. The prohibition loving assholes did a good job scaring the public for years with lies and forces and the ironic thing is that they are now scared and not the public. I am not from California and I’m looking forward for them to end this nearly a century old prohibition. Can’t wait to toke freely without fear.
A BIG – WOW on # 19 !!!!
I can’t believe they’ll take away your License & i guarantee it’s all because the Politicians are paid huge somes of money by corporations to keep Marijuana illegal & for your state to enforce these unjust laws .
One time i was stopped by the California Highway Patrol near Mammoth Lakes & i had a BB gun on my front seat which led them into searching my car . Well they found a 1/2 oz. of weed in a baggie , about 10 joints in a pill box , rolling papers , matches & more .I thought i was in trouble . Well , after they did a field sobriety test & found out i was ” straight ” & not a threat to public safety they let me go .
I think it’s great that we get to live in a time where people are finally starting to speculate that what were told is not really the truth and maybe how things are, arent how they should be! This should be one for the history books! yes on PROP 19
anyone else see that No on Prop 19 web site that’s done entirely sarcastically? Pretty good stuff there…
If this does pass, when will it go into effect? As soon as the votes are counted, or January first of 2011, or something else? If any of the editors know the answer, please make a note. Thanks.
do everyone a favor if you are a dirty hippie and take a shower and shampoo your hair if you are gonna be out in public singing prop 19’s praises. one of the main reasons that pot remains illegal in this country is its ties to that type of culture. everyone that supports legalization isn’t a gun hating liberal or drives a electric car, so let’s not give the rest of the voting populous that idea. drug legalization has always been grouped into the rest of the leftest agenda such as abortion, gun control, etc….if you do fall into this category, leave your obama shirts at home and the i hate sarah palin bumper stickers off your car. there isn’t any sense in alienating people that are undecided by pushing them away with your overall politics. this is a chance to make history, don’t mess it up by sounding and looking like a dirty worthless hippie…
My question is, what good would it do to pass a state law when the feds will still consider it illegal and still be able to bust folks who are using it…As has already happened.
[Editor’s note: 98% of cannabis arrests are made by local and state law enforcement…the feds do not target casual cannabis consumers and small scale cultivators. When CA voters pass a legalization initiative, which is going to happen this year or in 2012, the already small percentage of federal busts will go down even lower.
Like with alcohol prohibition, once a state largely abandons federal prohibition, the feds don’t try to supplant the local and state law enforcement efforts.]
Repeat after me:
I…
I believe…
I believe that…
I believe that we…
I believe that we will…
I believe that we will win…
I believe that we will win!
I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN!
I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN!
Let’s do it! Our time is now!
@ Reverend Boony:
The federal government may not be as big a concern as you believe, at least on the ground.
Look at it this way, the DEA currently has 5,500+ special agents, according to Wikipedia.
The Los Angeles Police Department, by itself, has over 10,000 police officers. If the LAPD can’t stop the cannabis, how are 5,500 DEA agents going to?
I feel that a federal government blackmail attempt (like what Reagan did to force all of the states to adopt a drinking age of 21) or a lawsuit is far more likely than them literally trying to arrest everyone.
To the editor’s reply to # 36:
There’s a first time for everything. Don’t kid yourself. The feds are already raiding LEGALLY run medical marijuana shops and they will do the same if CA legalizes.
[Editor’s note: Actually, most of the raids the DEA stages are directed at non-compliant ‘clubs’ who’re growing or selling cannabis well beyond what the state laws allow.
Again, the federal govt only makes a tiny fraction of the overall cannabis arrests in CA and the likelihood that federal raids will increase against state compliant growers and consumers post legalization in California is very low.]
Kevin Sabet, special adviser for policy at the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy, said marijuana is a dangerous drug that causes documented health and social problems and should not be subject to voter-approval for its use.
“Marijuana cannot be the one exception in history of the world that doesn’t go through a scientific process to be approved as medicine,” he told the Montana Supreme Court Administrator’s annual drug court conference in Helena. “It doesn’t make any sense.
“How can we imagine that a dangerous, illegal drug like marijuana should be voted on by the people? That’s not how we do medicine in this country.”
So does this mean even if voters approve Prop 19 the White House will stop this somehow?
[Editor’s note: There is no precedent of the federal government seeking to legally overturn the will of state voters. It maybe Kevin Sabet’s wet dream that his employer, the federal government, will keep him employed to keep fighting the inevitable legalization of cannabis, but he is hoping against hope for an unprecedented political outcome.
If Sabet was smart, he’d start learning some important life skills like flipping burgers, emptying septic tanks or cleaning chicken farms because he is going to soon be out of a job (and a social crusade).]
Hey # 35 I’ll bet you have a nascar sticker on your truck. I’m a 57 yr old proud ” hippie ” so go F*** yourself! Peace out.
To say that in the next.. let’s say, four upcoming years, California’s state wide example of how beneficial this legalized substance can be would place shock and awe into the faces of the original prohibitionists. Thus, ultimately leading to a Federal backed legalization.
John #33 I think this is what you are talking about:
http://www.opposeprop19.com/
Everyone needs to check this out – Funny stuff, just don’t take it seriously!
Kevin Sabet is a tool.
So sad and disappointing when somebody from a younger generation supports mass incarceration like he does.
That’s a weapon of previous generations.
I’d agree, with regulation comes harm, but farless then what we have now once it’s legal. Crimes against humanity is the drug war as a whole and it’s hurting EVERYONE! It’s sad when the law is doing more harm then the drugs themselves.
@ #41 jay
totally missing my point….its fine to always be who you are, but i tell the gun people the same thing. when it comes to public opinion, don’t make the stereotypes true. perfect example is someone like malcom x compared to MLK jr….one was a arrogant, loud, thuggy asshole and the other was a great man. and at the end of the day, look which one did the most for their cause. btw, if i was going to a pro-gun rally, i would tell the same thing to the rednecks of the world, take off your obama sucks shirts and the nascar stickers off your truck. i think you know exactly what i mean by all of this
Re #35
Sounds like you’re a Sarah Palin kind of guy. Wonder what Queen Sarah’s stance is on pot? Instead of lecturing those on the left, with whom you obviously have issues, maybe you should try educating some of your fellow righties–you know, the ones, by and large, who are gonna be voting against Prop 19. Maybe you should look at the polls, and see who is the driving force behind the MJ movement–guess what pal, it sure as hell ain’t the gun-loving righties.
BTW, this Prop is taking place in California, one of the most liberal states in the country, not in the right-wing South. So I’d say your perspective is a little out of whack.
I am conservative in my politics.I believe our rights are god given not man made.So why If I believe this way does the so called conservative leadership think the complete polar opposite as I and alot of other conservatives do.The Repuplicans spout off about smaller federal government why are they not fighting to get out of this quagmire they call the war on drugs (really meaning the war on cannibas).This country is going to hell in a hand basket.I hope and pray that the good people of California will do the common sense thing and vote for this overwhelmingly.I do not agree with alot of your social programs out there.That have brought that state to the brink of bankruptcy but this issue I whole heartedly agree with. Show the rest of the country the right path our GOD given right to consume cannibas.
I think the worry of many is big corporations will come in and grow pot in a Super Walmart sort of fashion and all the mom and pop operations will be put out of business as a result. This is already happening in Oakland as only a few supergrowers are going to be allowed. Personally I have mixed feelings over Prop 19. I think it is poorly written. I would hate to see big tobacco come in and displace all those who are true cannabis culture folk. I’m going to have to say no on 19 and hope a well written proposal will be put forth in the future.
[Paul Armentano responds: A legal market, by the very nature of it being legal, allows for the potential of corporate interests. Of course, at this time there is no indication that such interests like ‘big tobacco’ are interested at all, or legally could be interested.
Big Tobacco snuffs out rumors of California marijuana interest
Read more: http://blogs.sacbee.com/weed-wars/2010/09/rj-reynolds-snuffs-out-rumor-of-california-marijuana-interest.html#ixzz10sP3T1is
It appears that you believe that adults in California should continue to be prosecuted criminally for using a substance that is objectively safer than alcohol because you fear that present black market growers will be unable produce a product that will appeal to the general consumer in an open, legal market. That, in my opinion, is not a legitimate reason to continue the criminalization of 3.3 million Californians who presently use cannabis for non-medical purposes.]
someone above said some will vote no because its not a “perfect” bill….thats not at all it…its moreso a very very vague bill that lacks a lot of key elements to keep it out of court…this wont see the time of day even if it were to pass…why? the best argument against it is how its written, and the current federal structure that includes companys not getting money from clean tested employees.
ill be voting “NO”…im for medical marijuana, not open market marijuana to all without a first step…the way its worded also leaves the state with insane power…pass.
[Paul Armentano responds: “ill be voting “NO”…im for medical marijuana, not open market marijuana to all.” So in other words you are okay with the state prosecuting persons for their marijuana use as long as they are over 21 years old and healthy?]
watch it go legal, and the prices will RISE since its just one state of production, then wont fall when other states are added as the outdoor will be the only non expensive option…no regulation in place for mold etc…its just bad.
We both know why Kellogs will never say we’re winning this war & their profits are dwindling … They don’t know truth . They only know lies & deception.
I saw a Kellogs corn flakes ad just the other
day . Those ads are to make you think they are doing really good & what we are doing by boycotting their products has not effected them .They are trying to decieve you . In reality Kellogs sales are way down and Tony the Tiger has fallen along the wayside with all the other hypocrites and liars & that’s grrrrr -eat because we along with all the other , Michael Phelps of the World are winning this war .
@42 war on liberty,
I can’t help but imagine that same senario. So, if we pass this proposition, this year or in 2012, where does the country go from there? Do we wait for the other states on the fence to catch up with their own legalization bills? If the pace is similar to that of the medical marijuana states’ legalization bills, how long before states like my own a**-backwards state of Kentucky gets with the program?
Is there any plan, after a period of time when cannabis has legal in California, to go after the federal laws to change the schedule of the drug for country-wide reform?
I can’t imagine that the rest of the country will sit back patiently, waiting for reform to come to them, while California hogs all the freedom!
California must be used as an example of intelligent, responsible, benefitial cannabis reform. Once all the superstition wears off and everyone realizes that California isn’t going to sink into the Pacific Ocean because this plant is legal, can we hope for sweeping reform?
I don’t think the people can wait for passive, gradual reform.
All you people saying vote “no” on 19 are crazy. Yeah, it’s not a perfect bill, but so what! It’s a lot better than what we have now. Do all you guys think that if it passes we’ll be stuck with it forever? Things will only get better if it passes.
“ill be voting “NO”…im for medical marijuana, not open market marijuana to all without a first step…the way its worded also leaves the state with insane power…pass.”
Marijuana people that are voting ‘NO’ on Prop 19 “can’t see the forest from the trees.” It’s like these people think marijuana legalization ballots happen all the time and a better one is definitely coming along. What are these people smoking?
I got news for you California snobs (Anti Prop 19 trolls doing a mind F on CA?), a defeat could set reform backwards. (Is this what you crafty gov trolls have in mind anyway?) Think the marijuana tolerant years of the 1970s under President Carter; and then the sudden ‘iron fist’ of the “Just Say No” Reagan years soon after. History tends to repeat itself unless people demand radical change.
Vote “NO” California and nothing new happens; but voting “Yes on Prop 19” and passing it CHANGES EVERYTHING OVERNIGHT! Once people are free to grow and consume cannabis THEN we can argue about the details!
RE: #47
i’m not a sarah palin fan nor am i lecturing the “left.” i’m lecturing the people that go around looking like uneducated asses all day long and pot getting a bad rap for it. “oh my, if i vote yes, my son will turn into a trashy unkept hobo that does nothing but smoke pot…” i could easily take from your comment that you are anti-gun. let me tell you something, that right is all we have when shit hits the fan. that right is all we have when it comes to protecting our country and family. tie yourself to a tree and sing kumbaya and see if that stops the bullets from coming at you. i think you just have a hard time understanding that someone out there believes in the 2nd amendment and pot legalization. all i’m saying is that if your a greasy hippie, clean up before you support. if your a redneck, brush your teeth and don’t wear over-alls with no shirt underneath. if your black, don’t show up with your pants around your ankles, if your gay, leave the glitter at home and don’t skip along waving a rainbow flag. ACT PROFESSIONAL, there is to much at stake to let the undecideds be pushed away by stereotypical attitudes and appearances. there’s no sense in being a thin skinned to the point i’m trying to make. you wouldn’t show up to a job interview looking like a fool, why would you want to look like one supporting something that you love.
The people of CA need to know they are the tip of the sword, like I said, but know the tip is no good without the rest of the blade, We the nation of oppressed state are watch and pushing our own state into change. It is like we are all talking about, the truth! It has been with held from the population for some time. The 70 years of fight has been up hill with many going to prison, some were killed along this path here today, unjustly so. Now each day more doctors around the world are coming out and standing up, remember it was their profession our government first sent to prison for giving to their PTs.
Today we have ammo to fight back, just check out the DVD “What If Cannabis Cures Cancer” and you will see what I mean. What educated defense could they use, their constructive fraud is surfacing into the light of day. Because of NORML, and us, you and me, we have made a difference. Push on CA, there is a Nation of unfairly treated citizens watching, hoping, praying, for your victory. Many States stand ready to push this darkness off us and regain our liberty once again.
Get out and VOTE for our freedom.
Wondering how many of you have seen the latest news on CNN by Bill Piper the Director of National Affairs for the Drug Policy Alliance.
Hopefully this will make the main page in the updates here on Norml later today.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/09/28/piper.decriminalize.pot/
Let’s do what we can–be active–and help Prop 19 pass in California this November. This is a huge opportunity to send a message to the lawmakers…not just in D.C, but in all 50 states. Leave comments on WhiteHouse on Youtube, frequently visit thehill.com and tell the politicians, visit news sites too. Don’t go silent and think legalization will just happen on its own. This isn’t going to change unless we’re active!
FREE THE WEED——>Let cannabis bring us together
Hey dtrt you seem to cover all the bases.Ever see the photo of Kent State. Students with long hair and dirty clothes.They stood up without guns in thier hands.Just a wild guess, you work for GQ.
If 19 passes it will look a lot like Oakland. $211,000 for a commercial grow license. Big corporations will be taking over and the mom and pop grows will be a thing of the past. This is not the vision I have of legalization. It wasn’t the common person who wrote this proposal. It was written by greedy people and their lawyers.
http://votetaxcannabis2010.blogspot.com/
Just say KNOW to prop 19!
[Paul Armentano responds: How would Prop. 19 make California ‘look a lot like Oakland,’ given that the Oakland licensing measure you oppose passed independent of Prop. 19? Prop. 19 makes lawful private adult possession and UNTAXED personal cultivation. Commercial production would be subject to local regulations, which means that private growers would have the opportunity to enter the democratic process and lobby for local rules that best represent their interests. You seem to believe that ‘mom and pop’ growers, as you call them, would somehow be incapable of doing so. Why? BTW, the website you site has been debunked on numerous occasions by NORML’s Russ Belville and others.]
Mass incarceration of drug offenders has drained state and federal resources, distracted police from dealing with violent crime, and produced a generation of children with one or both parents behind bars instead of at home
Mass incarceration of drug offenders has drained state and federal resources, distracted police from dealing with violent crime, and produced a generation of children with one or both parents behind bars instead of at home .
For you in California….a vote for mass terrorist , Meg Whitman will only contribute to keeping our current unjust laws on Marijuana , pad the pockets of Pharma. & continue the genocide from South America , through California on to the tip of Alaska .
Mass incarceration of drug offenders has drained state and federal resources, distracted police from dealing with violent crime, and produced a generation of children with one or both parents behind bars instead of at home .
A vote for Mass terrorists ,Meg Whitman in California will only continue ( if she wins ) the unjust laws and genocide from South America through California & up to Alaska .
Re: 56 – Maybe it’s best to just be who you are! The logic in this is that there will cease to be a stereotypical marijuana smoker. Maybe people, the prohibitionists in particular, will come to realize that anyone could be a potential marijuana user. Some smart, some stupid, some thin, some fat, some asian, some mexican, some white, and on and on…
ist not going to work you may need the lanlords oernision it aint gonna happen they will say no to you
Re #56,
Well you’ll have to excuse me for misinterpreting your original “intent.” Although you’ve spelled it out in your second post, your original post left a far different impression. Your original post made no mention of rednecks, blacks or gays. Just dirty hippies with anti-Sarah Palin bumper stickers, etc. If you are as objective on political matters and political stereotypes, as you now claim to be, maybe you should explain yourself better next time.
In any case, it’s hard for me believe you’re as neutral as you say you are, given your latest post. You’re the one who brought up guns in the first place.
Then when I respond to your stereotypes about hippies with a term you obviously find offensive–gun-loving, etc–suddenly you’re thin-skinned and outraged. Then you assume “by my comment” that I’m anti-gun. In fact, not only do I know plenty of guys who own guns and smoke pot, I own guns myself. See? Misinterpretation can work both ways.
I have no argument about dressing up and acting professionally in order to get one’s point across. How do you feel about the tea baggers? I’ve seen some pretty clownish behavior and dress-ups in that bunch. Just wondering.
Prop. 19 is NOT legalization.
Legalization would mean that you could grow, possess, and distribute marijuana without restriction. What Prop. 19 does is severely over regulate marijuana.
[Paul Armentano responds: Legalization is not defined as the absence of restrictions. Name me one other legal retail commodity, particularly one that is consumed, that is ‘distributed without restrictions?’ Prop. 19 IS legalization, and the present system in place in California IS criminal prohibition. Which is preferable?]
47 Puffer
I’m not sure- but – I would venture a guess to say that Sarah is down to earth enough to “go for” some sort of legalization – if not total legalization. Without asking her what her position is – quit bashing her for the sake of politics. You know I’m a Tea Bagger – and – you know we will oppose, with passion, any political party that doesnt make sense, or violates our Constitution. We have served the pudding wherein lies the truth.
Hope you’re well and everything is fine with the family. When are you coming back to Cal. It will be legal next month. Why? Because tobacco is buying up land in Northern Cal to grow – and – the teamsters are forming a pot union. As I said before – how are the growers going to transport the stuff to the distributors??? There’s the answer! – teamsters. Think about all the union dues. That ought to make progressives happier than a puppy with two peckers. Pot will be no harder to buy than a pack of cigarettes.
After looking at the website #61 posted
http://votetaxcannabis2010.blogspot.com/
I immediately thought of this:
need to find a way to show people who dont partake that cannabis is a great place to be.i consumed a small amount pretty much every evenin and all it did for me was bring some inner peace an comfort an i believe it does that for a whole mess of people….comfortable and happy in life….what a concept.i havent felt that more then, now that my employer of 33 yrs wants hair from me every six months or so. for the last year ana half…..so i wrote a letter to h.r.hoping to convey a message of reason and consideration….and am waiting patiently for a return that i was promised. and it does suck to know someone who consumes and enjoys feels intimidated because of present laws and wont speak up.so i.e…some of the others who enjoy , right now their is not alot of support about this matter.this is teaching me to step out for whats right….i asked them about possibly changing to a saliva test…that way they can know that im not enhanced on the job….an we get to have a small peice of private life back so i, can focus my thoughts on our personal rights a piece farther up the road. a well placed ad at work. not daily either, i think helps people to maybe become more familar with such an awesome herb.its really not about…your a usless crimminal marked for life bullshit….its about millions of sucessful, interseting,happier people who wish only a small “adjustment” if you will to make the road just a little less bumpy.i haved solved the worlds problems many times over while enjoyin a couple pops off the vaporizer after a bustin day makin money for the man. ……peace to you all..
Re 69
Hey Rebel,
How’re you doing? Great to hear from you.
You know that you and I are on the same page when it comes to MJ. And I’m glad for that.
But my “bashing” of Sarah was a response to someone else’s bashing of hippies & the “left’s agenda.” Nothing personal directed at you, my friend, but as long as there are others bashing the left, including tea baggers, you know I’m gonna have to respond in kind.
Sarah may be down to earth, but that’s got nothing to do with it. I’ll believe she supports MJ legalization the day she says so publicly. I’m sure you know that the vast majority of tea baggers oppose Prop 19. I honestly didn’t know you were a tea bagger–must’ve missed that post–but you are an exception, my friend, an exception.
Anyway, here’s a puff hoping you & your Calif bros and sisters can see this great Prop all the way thru! Best of luck to you. BTW, I’m working on my wife. If we can’t make it to Amsterdam again, by gosh, we WILL make it to the Golden State!
Ya mon! Peter Tosh said “LEAGALIZE IT DONT CRITICIZE IT” and to all you blood klaats that say NO, WTF! here is your chance to change tings, positive, lets move forward with issue… and have some PEACE and LOVE in the world. with the blessed plant. and remenber it is the weed of wisdom! use it… one lov…
77 Longtime Puffer
Well my progressive friend, if you can’t make it to California, I hope you can make it to the Netherlands, I know both are your passion. You should also know that I believe that everyone should fulfill [be able tyo achieve] their passion – without the slightest obstruction – whatever it is. That’s because I’m an Individualist. The reason I’m a teabagger is because I believe in, and will defend, my Constitution with my life. By the way 71% of Republicans, and 41% of Democrats identify with tea baggers. I’d say that those figures amount to a political force if not a political party. What I’m really proud of is that those percentages are all RED-BLOODED AMERICANS, not anti-colonialists {anti-americans]. There I go – getting into politics again. Let us just say that I believe in God and country, and leave it at that. As for Sarah, she will stand on her own two feet, which I hope will support our cause. Has anyone asked her what her position is? Let’s ask: Does anyone know her position on cannabis?
Best wishes Puff,
Rebel
@ #79 Rebel
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20008091-503544.html
GENESISTS DEFINE [IS].
The Genesists Faith has universal identity – the Genesist Faith exists.
WHAT IS IT TO EXISTS?
To say something exists is to say that it [is]. To state something’s essence is to say [what it is]. Existance cannot be reduced to essence. To exist [is] simply presence – to be there – “wherever I go – there I am.” That which exists appears, lets itself be encountered. One common denominator exisits between all Genesists – “we are here”, holding to the culture, customs, and traditions of one people. We are a universal family of one people – with an acute sense of distinctiveness – holding to one faith in any monotheistic religion. That faith is in God, and God’s gift of Holy Sacrament.
GENESISTS ARE A BODY OF MASS DISTINCTION.
Genesists are well defined and unmistakable. From sea to shining sea, each and every county in each and every sovereign state of these United States of America is a Genesist colony [3141 colonies], and bears the name of that county. This includes our brethren throughout the world. The Genesist Faith transcends all boundries. We are children of the world, and not so minute in the vast flow of life. It’s a small world after all, and friends find each other.
IT IS THE GENESIST’S OBJECTIVE, INTENT, AND PURPOSE for friends to find each other and stand as one continually, as one unified society, to protect the rights of us all, as individuals, and to act against aggression directed at our Constitutional, God given inalienable religious right of Holy Sacrament. Our strength is in our unity of purpose. To that high concept there can be no end save victory.
The Feds will lay off. Obama has his plate full, what with the Depression, two Wars, multi-trillion dollar deficits and all.
Even if he just looks the other way for the last two years, then there’s no going back ever.
IT’S JUST THIS SIMPLE – WE ARE EITHER PROTECTED BY THE FIRST AMENDMENT – OR – WE’RE NOT!
Competeing/complelling governmental interest is an intrusion of our right to Holly Sacrament, and a burden on our faith/religion. The Constitution is the rock upon which we stand. To violate our pursuit of happiness and humanity is to violate our Constitution. The violators should be brought to stand before the same justice – to exact punishment – that allows them to be unjust. The idea of government telling us what we can or cannot honor as Sacrament is as outrageous as government telling us what religion we can or cannot practice – or – that we can even have religion. The Constitution is God approved and so is our Sacrament. Let’s do separate politics from religion!
Their is only 2 reasons why anyone would not want prop 19 to pass. Their either 1. ignorant of the affects and addiction of pot,or 2. They make their tax free income growing it. There is some people that are against alcohol, pot, and drugs but the majority of the voters are in the category of 1 or 2 above. 99 percent of the people I know that have a medical prescription, do not grow for medical reasons at all. They grow for the money they make off it, Watch my County, Humboldt and you will see a high level of vote NO on 19 coming from this county. Come visit my County, you will see lots of new vehicles, bikes, grocery stores and Casino’s full with unlimited money supply from people that do not work. A vote NO on 19 is supporting the people of Calif who don’t work. They have plenty of money, pay very little taxes, and receive medical cards from the State. Why make only the ones that break the law growing, make all the money. Legalize it, let the cops do a job of going after dangerous criminals, open factory’s and put these people to work making a honest living.