Pubdate: Thu, 19 May 2011
Source: Modesto Bee, The (CA)
Copyright: 2011 Ernst Berg
Contact:  http://www.modbee.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/271
Author: Ernst Berg

LEGALIZE NONCOMMERCIAL POT

A majority of Californians voted "No" on Proposition 19 (1972) and 
Proposition 19 (2010). We also voted "Yes" on proposition 215 (1996).

California and the federal government are against cannabis commerce 
but we are in favor, by law, of private horticulture and 
noncommercial use through our medical program, and our federal 
government is respecting that.

The demographics are changing in California. At some point in the not 
too distant future, the "No" voters will lose at the polls over 
legalizing. Why not sponsor a preemptive noncommercial horticulture 
permit system initiative for all and defeat cannabis commerce in 2012 
rather than gamble?

In the struggle over cannabis, both sides seem willing to gamble in 
2012. The for-profit side is going to promote commerce again.

Why not find a middle way and legalize private noncommercial 
horticulture first?

As strange as it sounds I am asking the no people to sponsor an 
initiative in 2012 that legalizes private horticulture, use and 
noncommercial private trade for all California equally.

It's up to the no voters to lead or delay until their vote is the minority.

ERNST BERG

Turlock
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom