California Likely to Vote on Marijuana Legalization in 2010

Supporters are now gathering signatures to place up to three proposals to legalize marijuana on the California ballot next fall, the Associated Press reported Oct. 7.

Some polls have shown that a majority of California residents now support legalization, although the drug would remain illegal under federal law regardless of what state voters say. If the ballot questions are approved, however, the state would not only stop prosecuting marijuana offenses but cease cooperation with federal law enforcement, as well. Most marijuana arrests are made at the state level.

One ballot question calls for legalizing possession of up to one ounce of marijuana by adults ages 21 and older. Another would allow individuals to grow a 5×5 plot of marijuana on their property, while a third would allow local governments to decide whether to allow marijuana sales in their community.