A poll released on October 26, 2010, by SurveyUSA stated that 46% of likely California voters polled were leaning toward voting no on Prop. 19, while only 44% of likely voters polled were leaning toward voting yes. Proposition 19 is the voter initiative that would legalize possession of under one ounce of marijuana.
Previous polls had shown more California voters supported Prop. 19 than opposed it. The SurveyUSA poll was one of the first to show greater opposition to Prop. 19 than support. The opposition seems to be driven by older voters.
Supporters of Prop. 19 argue that prosecuting minor pot possession is a waste of scarce state resources and that marijuana prohibition has not reduced marijuana use. In addition, supporters insist that marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol, and that regulating and taxing marijuana will bring a much needed revenue stream for the state.
Opponents of Prop. 19 maintain that traffic accidents will increase because of the increased number of marijuana-intoxicated drivers on the road, and job productivity will decrease because more employees will use marijuana before work.
California will vote on Prop. 19 on November 2, 2010.
Under California Health and Safety Code section 11357(b), a person who possesses under an ounce of marijuana is guilty of an infraction. If cited under section 11357(b), the person will be required to pay a fine of up to $100. No jail times are authorized for an infraction, and an infraction does not show up on the person’s criminal record. If passed, Prop. 19 would remove any penalty for up to an ounce of pot possession.
Driving under the influence of marijuana is punished as a DUI under California Vehicle Code section 23152(a). Penalties for a DUI vary with the circumstances, including whether the person has previous DUIs and whether there were personal injuries or property damage.
If you or someone you know has been accused of a drug crime, you will need an experienced Southern California drug crime lawyer who will seek the best possible resolution for your case. At Wallin & Klarich, we have represented people accused of drug crimes for over 30 years. Call us today at (888) 280-6839 or visit us at our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.
