Title:
Calif.: Marijuana policy bills fail to advance by deadline
Message:
Despite hundreds of letters – sent by activists like you –
urging California lawmakers to support legislation to improve California’s
marijuana policies, two bills that would have done just that failed to advance
out of their respective chambers by yesterday’s deadline. Although both proposals enjoy
strong public support, both were pulled prior to a vote by their sponsors
due to a lack of majority support in their respective chambers.
The first bill was AB 1017, introduced by Assemblymember Tom
Ammiano. This bill proposed changing the penalty for marijuana cultivation from
an automatic felony to a “wobbler” that could be charged as a misdemeanor. AB
1017 received a vote last spring, when it lost 24-36, but it did not garner enough support to pass if it was voted on again. Although
it did not advance, Assemblymember Ammiano should be praised for his consistent
support and championing of sensible marijuana policy reform in the Golden
State.
The second bill was SB 129, introduced by Sen. Mark Leno and
sponsored by Americans for Safe Access. This bill sought to protect the
employment rights of medical marijuana patients. Sen. Mark Leno has been a
consistent champion for medical marijuana patients’ rights, and his efforts on
this push are greatly appreciated. In addition, a big thank you goes out to ASA
for sponsoring this bill.
Finally, thanks so much for your support of, and advocacy for,
sensible marijuana reform in the Golden State. With your help, we can and will
move the ball forward. Please continue to educate your elected officials on the
need for sensible marijuana policy reform.
