For more than 35 years I’ve served Oregon as a trial judge, a Judge on the Oregon Court of Appeals and as a Justice on the Oregon Supreme Court. From that perspective, I can tell you it’s time for a better approach to marijuana in our state.Marijuana legalization is inevitable. I believe we need to do it with the most responsible approach possible. In fact, I voted against the marijuana legalization measure two years ago because I thought it was a flawed proposal. But I am voting Yes on 91. I’ve reviewed countless laws in my career and I have carefully read this proposal.
Measure 91 is carefully written to legalize, regulate and tax marijuana for adults 21 and older, and it’s the right way forward for our state.
Treating marijuana use as a crime has failed and has repercussions far beyond Oregon. Violent drug cartels in Mexico are driving a humanitarian crisis at our borders. The violence is due, in part, to illegal marijuana exports to the black market here. We can cut off the unlawful drug trafficking with a smart approach at home. Marijuana is an economic engine that fuels some gangs. This measure will move the money that funds gangs into the regulated, legitimate economy.
I can also tell you marijuana prohibition has bogged down our justice system. Last year, 13,408 people were arrested or cited for marijuana crimes in Oregon. That’s one person every 39 minutes, all of whom go through the justice system. In the last decade, more than 99,000 people have been arrested or cited for marijuana. That’s roughly the same as arresting or citing every person who lives in Albany and Tigard.
This November, Measure 91 is our chance to get it right. That’s why I’ll be voting yes.
I hope my fellow Oregonians will read the measure, give it careful thought and join me.
This information furnished by Richard William Riggs, Retired Justice Oregon Supreme Court.