Looks like California will likely stay out of the marijuana business for at least the next couple years. The leading strategists who have brought to vote most of the marijuana initiatives seen around the nation since 1996 have put the brakes on a California measure, saying funding is proving an issue.
The Drug Policy Alliance — backed in part by billionaire George Soros — and coalition partners reported that signature-gathering efforts to bring legalized pot to the state seem to be on target, the Los Angeles Times said.
But financial backers haven’t stepped forward to the level that’s needed to bring the pro-pot law to fruition, the Los Angeles Times reported. They have until April to hand in signatures, but need about $10 million minimum to conduct the accompanying media campaign and police outreach and education effort that would be necessary to achieve a successful outcome.
With money short, they’re pulling the plug.
The strategists are waiting until at least 2016, the Los Angeles Times reported.
“We believe the best way to go forward with any state ballot initiative is to have a strong funding base in place before launching the campaign,” said Graham Boyd, one of the leading voices working to legalize marijuana in the state, the Los Angeles Times reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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