Prop 19 Looking Good In California

With a little luck, the state of California is on track to once again be a trendsetter for the rest of the nation.   They are voting this coming November on whether to legalize the possession and sale of marijuana.   Proposition 19 would legalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults, and it would allow adults to grow their own marijuana in a plot no larger than 25 square feet.   In addition, it would allow cities and counties to legalize and tax the sale and transportation of marijuana.

If the proposition passes it could be a real financial boon to the state, which currently is running a significant debt.   Last July, the California Board of Equalization estimated that the state could collect up to $1.4 billion in taxes by legalizing marijuana.   A recent study by the Cato Institute backs that up.   They say the state could collect $351.88 million in revenue and save $959.75 million in government expenditures for a total of more than $1.3 billion annually.

There is some opposition to the legalization of marijuana, and much of it comes from those who might be financially hurt by the proposition's approval -- like the alcohol industry, who are afraid many people will choose to use the much less dangerous drug rather their alcoholic products (and they're probably right).   Some police organizations are also opposed to the proposition.   They also have a financial interest in maintaining the status quo.

But in spite of the organized opposition, two recent polls show that Prop 19 is actually gaining in popularity in the state, giving it an increasing chance of passage.   The California Field Poll found the proposition winning by a 49% to 42% margin.   A Public Policy Institute poll showed even better numbers.   PPI has the proposition winning by a 52% to 41% margin.   Earlier polls had shown the proposition leading by smaller percentages, so it looks like it is gaining in popularity.

Of course it all depends on who goes to the polls to vote in November, but it's starting to look like the beginning of the end of marijuana prohibition may actually be happening.   It's about time.