Urge your legislators to consider removing penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana
Please send an e-mail to your legislators, asking them to remove the penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana. Be sure to forward any responses you receive to state@mpp.org, so that your legislators may be lobbied more effectively.
Legislators truly do listen to their constituents, so be sure to follow up with calls to their offices after sending your letters!
Write a letter to the editor calling for the removal of penalties for adults who possess small amounts of marijuana.
Writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper can be a great way to foster discussion about marijuana policy reform. While we have provided a list of talking points, we encourage you to write your own letter.
Here's a few tips to keep in mind:
1) Keep it short and simple
Papers generally won't print anything longer than 150-200 words. It's best to make one point well, rather than trying to make every point possible. By only making one point at a time, you save your other arguments for future letters.
2) Check your spelling and grammar
Not only are newspapers more likely to print a letter containing no errors, having a spelling or grammar mistake plays into the stereotypes embraced by the opposition. We'd be glad to look over your letter if you'd like.
3) Say only what you know is factually true
Science, math, and reason are on our side; there's no need to make false claims or exaggerations. If you are unsure, check our library or ask us.
4) If possible, respond to a recent story in a timely manner
Papers are generally more likely to publish letters that are in response to recent stories, especially letters than are submitted shortly after the stories were published.
Feel free to contact us if you'd like help with your letter, and let us know if it gets published.
