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PETITION CALLS FOR MARIJUANA QUESTION ON FALL BALLOT

River Falls voters may see a referendum question about medical marijuana on the ballot during November's election.  City Council Member Bob Hughes filed with the city clerk's office Wednesday, Aug.  25, a petition for direct legislation bearing 800+ signatures.

The question petitioners want added to the ballot: "Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"

City Clerk Lu Ann Hecht confirmed that Hughes had submitted the petition a few days before the deadline and had the required number of signatures.  She has forwarded the petition to the city attorney for interpretation.

He'll determine if it warrants a direct-legislation referendum or an advisory referendum.  After that is determined, the City Council will decide whether to add the question to the ballot or not.

Hecht was not yet sure what action a direct-legislation referendum would motivate.  Hughes was not available for comment, other than saying to the Journal after Tuesday night's Council meeting that he would be filing a petition.