Prop 64 is all about pot. Specifically, legalizing it and taxing it. Right now, here in California, marijuana is only legal for medical use, though possession of an ounce or less is just an infraction — basically, like a speeding ticket.
But if Prop 64 passes, anyone over the age of 21 could legally use and possess up to an ounce of pot, no medical marijuana card required. Supporters say that passing Prop 64 would generate over a billion dollars a year for the state.
The top funder of this proposition is Sean Parker, one of the founders of Napster. He and other backers have raised more than 18 million dollars for Prop 64. They say it will create a safe and legal system for non-medical marijuana use. Other supporters include Gavin Newsom, Barbara Lee, and state branches of the ACLU and NAACP.
Then there are the opponents. Senator Dianne Feinstein is one. So are California’s Republican and Libertarian parties, and the state’s District Attorneys’ Association. Many opponents object to the use of pot on moral grounds, for health reasons, and for the danger it poses to kids. In comparison with the 18 million dollars spent by the "yes" side, opponents of prop 64 have raised only 700 thousand.
Now it’s up to you. If you support the legalization and taxation of marijuana vote "yes" on prop 64, if you think it should remain limited to medical use then vote "no."
Citizen respondents to KALW's elections call-out contributed to this post. Our call-outs are part of our community reporting project.
