Anti-marijuana stand includes misinformation

Pat Bushey

Anti-marijuana stand includes misinformation

With Measure 18-105 for legalization of sales for recreational marijuana for Klamath Country approaching there is much confusion and misinformation.

Being a communications graduate, marijuana grower/patient, and a mother I understand the concerns that are being raised by both sides. However, most arguments against this law passing are inaccurate and poorly thought out.

After legalization of cannabis, Colorado actually saw a decrease in crime rates and traffic fatalities while also gaining $40.9 million in tax revenue the first year to support the state (Drug Policy Alliance, 2015).

Also, funds were used from this revenue for youth prevention and education. Washington was very similar.

However, my main point is that marijuana is already legal in all of Oregon State. This means that all Oregonians are allowed to possess up to one ounce of usable marijuana and consume it. But, in our county we choose not to allow people to purchase what they are legally allowed to possess.

The county’s reasonings are banning recreational marijuana sales will protect children and stop this “harmful” substance from being used in our community. The only problem is that we are not preventing anything.

People who wish to use marijuana will obtain it in other ways because they are now legally allowed to have it. So, in truth we are not preventing any marijuana use or protecting our youth because we are fueling the black market by choosing not to regulate it.

Why would we not vote to regulate marijuana to allow people to obtain it legally thus avoiding and lessening the sales on the black market and stopping children from having the ability to get it.

Regulating marijuana is the only way to protect our children from obtaining it and giving people a safe and legal way to obtain their marijuana. Please help regulate marijuana vote yes on 18-105.