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Question 2: Decriminalization of marijuana

Worcester Telegram & Gazette

Question 2 seeks to replace criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of civil penalties, to be enforced by issuing citations.

November 2, 2008
Submitted by CSMP Staff on Sun, 11/02/2008 - 17:09

LTE: Vote 'yes' on Question 2 to unburden our children

Joe Bangert
Cape Cod Times

Leave the kids alone. Vote "yes" on Question 2!

Why? It would:

  • Replace criminal penalties with a $100 fine, which would go to the city where the offense takes place.
November 1, 2008
Submitted by CSMP Staff on Sat, 11/01/2008 - 17:43

LTE: DAs have it wrong on Question 2

Edward L. Parsons, M.D.
Berkshire Eagle

I was quite interested to read the article, "Weed sparking lively debate," in the Oct. 24 Eagle. I find the arguments put forth by District Attorney David Capeless and the state's other DAs to maintain such severe punishment for kids possessing an ounce of pot to be not only fallacious but disheartening.

October 30, 2008
Submitted by CSMP Staff on Fri, 10/31/2008 - 18:54

Opinion: Massachusetts Ballot Initiatives

Editorial staff
MIT Tech

Question 2

This question would replace existing criminal penalties for possession of less than one ounce of marijuana with civil penalties of $100.

Currently, offenders face up to six months in prison, a $500 fine, and a permanent criminal record. It is estimated that $29.5 million per year is spent on enforcement of the law on low level arrests for possession, not to mention the time and money spent by the state on the court system and subsequent jail time for convicted offenders.

October 31, 2008
Submitted by CSMP Staff on Fri, 10/31/2008 - 15:12

Support public health: Vote Yes on Question 2

Dr. Robert Meenan
Allston-Brighton Tab

Allston-Brighton -

As a physician, educator and leader of public health in Massachusetts, I urge you to vote “yes” on Question 2. Question 2 is a modest proposal that will save money and, as importantly, reduce the creation of lifelong criminal records upon arrest for minor offenses. It’s a policy that is already in place in 11 other states and that will work in Massachusetts, and it will have a meaningful impact on the public health of our communities and commonwealth.

October 30, 2008
Submitted by CSMP Staff on Fri, 10/31/2008 - 05:44