Big Hopes for Oregon’s Measure 91

Over the past two years, Oregon has watched Colorado and
their even closer neighbors— Washington—legalize cannabis recreationally for those
21 and over; but will they follow suite this November? There are still mixed
opinions on the issue, and even on if the initiative will pass, but there is a
great deal of hope for Measure 91.

If the measure passes, then residents can have up to eight
ounces in their home as well as plants to grow their own. They will also be
able to carry up to one ounce with them in their car or on the street. Sales
will be handled and controlled by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, which would
treat the substance much like alcohol. It would be taxed, about $1.50 on a gram
and $35 on an ounce, and is expected to bring in profits of about $16 million
in the first year.

Oregon was the first state to decriminalize cannabis, but in
2012 they voted not to legalize. Opponents and supportive groups alike claimed
that the 2012 initiative was poorly written, and so far Measure 91 is garnering
a much more positive response. The Oregon Sherriff’s Association approves of
the measure and has donated some money to the campaign, and it is backed by
several prominent Oregon politicians.

The bill’s backers are hopeful that the measure will pass,
as polls in Oregon reveal that most are in favor of legalization, in order to
decrease the money given to drug cartels and criminal organizations, and move
away from ruining the lives of those caught with cannabis on their person.