Maine Initiative to Legalize Cannabis Officially Placed on November Ballot as Question 1
The initiative would authorize cannabis retail outlets. (Photo: IBTimes.com)
A Maine initiative that would legalize the recreational use of cannabis for everyone 21 and older has been officially placed on this November’s election ballot as Question 1, according to Secretary of State Matt Dunlap
According to Dunlap, the following is the exact questioning that will appear on the ballot this November 8th; “Do you want to allow the possession and use of marijuana under state law by persons who are at least 21 years of age, and allow the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, testing, and sale of marijuana and marijuana products subject to state regulation, taxation and local ordinance?”
David Boyer, the Campaign Manager for the Yes on 1 campaign, says he’s happy with the way the question is worded.
“It conveys to voters that the cultivation and sale of marijuana for adult use will be subject to regulation, taxation, and local control”, says Boyer. “We are pleased, as those themes comprise the core of our initiative and help explain the benefits of ending marijuana prohibition. Residents of Maine will be hearing a lot more about regulation, taxation, and local control as we spend the next four months encouraging them to vote ‘yes’ on Question 1.”
Boyer notes that; “Several states have repealed marijuana prohibition over the past few years, and they are experiencing very positive results. Hundreds of millions of dollars in marijuana sales that used to take place in the underground market are now being conducted in tightly regulated businesses that are generating significant tax revenue and creating good jobs. We are confident that Question 1 will be just as successful, and we are looking forward to talking with voters about its many benefits.”
According to polling released last month, 55% of Maine voters support legalizing cannabis.
The full text of the initiative can be found by clicking here.