Support for I-502 in Washington is looking good...

[Jonathanm]

A new PPP poll came back with favorable results for I-502, the legalize marijuana initiative in Washington. 47% yes, 39% no, and 15% undecided.

http://blog.norml.org/2012/02/25/wa-new-poll-shows-47-of-likely-voters-support-i-502-15-undecided/

I don't agree with everything in this initiative. For example, I find it ridiculous that someone can't legally grow their own cannabis, but can legally buy it from state run stores. Personally, I think that's just stupid, but it's certainly better than the current policy, and it would still allow medical cannabis users the ability to grow their own.

I wish it were less regulated, and more like the Colorado initiative which to my understanding allows growing for personal consumption, but I guess the states have to start somewhere. What do you guys think? Do you think that marijuana legalization is about to seriously change here in America? If a couple of states take the lead and manage to pass legalization this year, it's almost certain that other states will inevitably follow. The main problem I see is the federal government. Will they let this go, or will it be another medical-dispensary-raided-every-day fiasco?

 

[forliberty52]

The topic of marijuana usage is such a debate, it has proven helpful in medical study and consumers like to use it recreationally more than those that drink alcohol. Realistically I do not see that there will be as many states as liberal about it as Colorado, if it is passed they are not going to do it without ensuring that pockets can get lined by charging outrageous taxes/prices on it. Look at cigarettes today with increased state taxes making some packs as high at 10 bucks each.

 

[Jonathanm]

I don't see many states going the route of Colorado immediately, but I view prohibition as something that will be whittled away at slowly over time. If one state manages to legalize for recreation, over time we'll have significant data that proves legalization causes less damage than prohibition (And I do believe that the data will reflect this). I do agree that in the end it'll probably go the route of tobacco and have insane taxes. At the same time, I'd prefer people being overly taxed than thrown in prison/shot by police in drug raids. This is one of the few issues where I'm willing to compromise temporarily; not that I want obscene taxes, but I see the alternative as something far, far worse.

 

[forliberty52]

I agree, taxes vs. jail I would take taxes any day. Especially with the current three strike law the US is implementing and the fact that you can get life in jail for having a large amount of drugs on you. This will be a gradual process, but I think many more people that are depressed or have other physical ailments can really benefit from the medical uses that have been proven effective for certain patients. Only time will tell at this point.