Prop 19 signifies large quarrels about weed

The debate surrounding Prop 19 has a lot to do with the heat of the 2010 election season. There’s a vote on the CA ballot called the “Regulate, Control, and Tax Marijuana Act”. Here is an overview of the arguments about California’s Prop 19.

What is in Proposition 19

Weed for recreational purposes would be lawful in California with Proposition 19. Those 21 or older would be able to “possess, cultivate or transport marijuana for personal use," if the initiative passed. Any local govt would be given the right to regulate and tax any part of the marijuana industry. Any person younger than 21 being in the room while it’s smoked would be illegal. It would also be illegal to drive under the influence or smoke in public.

Prop 19 and the debate on taxation’s

One major argument for Prop 19 is the potential tax revenue for CA. Prop 19 would make it so there was a $1.3 billion tax revenue from it. It would also allow the $1 billion being spent of enforcing laws on it to end. Minimum wage is what the state is paying employees right now. With that kind of revenue, there could possibly be a large change in those wages.

States’ rights debate for Proposition 19

Many say that states rights is the bigger issue with Prop 19, instead of the legalization of cannabis. Conservative groups say the United States federal govt has no place regulating intoxicants. For Tea Party groups, Prop 19 is proving to be a question of state and individual rights.

Prop 19 being looked down on by growers

The debate against passing California’s Proposition 19 is getting some support from unusual groups. Those who grow and sell medical weed don't want Prop 19 to pass in California. They have spoken out about it. Weed being legal for recreation will mean that the sector changes. The medical sector may have to change too. They would have to sell weed for less. They'd also end up with more taxation’s on the medical product they’re growing.

Want to know more about California's Prop 19? This two-part series on the initiative has all the info you need. CA residents are faces with a big choice with Proposition 19. Are you going to vote for it? In opposition to it?