Marijuana.com

Lit_Match

Supporters cheer passage of Eureka Springs marijuana initiative
11-11-06|Associated Press

Supporters of a measure that deemphasizes the prosecution and arrest of marijuana users in this laid back Ozark hamlet say they hope to propose a similar ordinance in at least one other town.

In Tuesday's election, the Eureka Springs marijuana initiative passed with 63 percent supporting it. According to complete but unofficial returns, 598 people supported the measure and 345 people opposed it.

"For the first time in Arkansas history, citizens have had an opportunity to voice their opinion on America's failed marijuana laws," said Ryan Denham, a campaign director for Fayetteville's chapter of the National Organization for Reform of Marijuana Laws.

"Eureka Springs citizens would rather police focus on violent crimes and property crimes, and not spend their limited resources targeting, arresting and prosecuting minor marijuana offenders," he said.

Next up for the group is trying to get a similar initiative passed in Fayetteville in 2008, Denham said.

But groups such as the Arkansas Family Council Action Committee are opposed to such measures, saying it sends the wrong message about illegal drugs.

"The measure in Eureka Springs, I believe, sends the wrong message to our young people that somehow using illegal drugs is OK," Jerry Cox, the council's executive director. "In Arkansas, I believe most parents believe the use of illegal drugs, especially by their children, always is wrong."

However, Cox said he didn't anticipate strong support for similar initiatives statewide.

"Eureka Springs may be the only city in Arkansas where a measure like this would receive any significant support among the local citizens," he said.

Despite the initiative's passage, Eureka Springs police Chief Earl Hyatt said the enforcement priorities of the police department won't change.

"If an officer finds someone with a small amount of marijuana, they have always had the choice of pouring it on the ground and rubbing it in the dirt or charging the person _ and that is not going to change," Hyatt said. "This has always been a moot point, but they wanted it on there and they got it. It's their democratic right."

 

Buzzby

I hope the town's citizens pack the next council meeting and get this guy replaced with someone who understands his role. Doesn't he recognize that he works for the people who voted on this and that their will determines whether or not he has a job?

__________________

TheUnseenTruth

I agree, it's stubborn , ignorant people (or obstacles as I call em') like this that holds the cat by its leg...despite the fact that the cat is clawing his arm and trying to run.

If you can understand my point, of course .

"They always have the choice of rubbing it into the ground, or charging the person."

There's just nothing to be said to that....

__________________

Quote:

Originally Posted by goodgirl I think I will be stopping by the bunker tonight....I could use a little of what you are all serving.