BAY CITY, MI — Dozens gathered in downtown Bay City’s Wenonah Park to voice their support for the state to legalize recreational marijuana use.
The rally began at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 25, and was put on by “MI Legalize,” self-described as “an initiative campaign that aims to legalize marijuana and end years of harmful prohibition in Michigan.”
Stuart Fielder, of Saginaw, said the point of Thursday’s rally was to gather volunteers and organize for the 180-day window allotted to gather at least 252,523 valid voter signatures for the issue to appear on the 2018 ballot. That period kicks off Friday, May 26.
On that day, volunteers are going to begin sending out petitions.
“Right now, we’re just ramping people up and getting them excited for this campaign,” Fielder said. “We’re going to teach them, educate, and really get all of our volunteers ready and on board so we can make sure these 180 days go by as smooth as possible.”
Those who signed up at Thursday’s rally will receive petitions, Fielder said.
Though marijuana is a Schedule I substance under federal law and thus not legal in any context, Michigan and 25 other states have legalized its medical use. Eight states — Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, California, Nevada, Massachusetts, and Maine — have legalized recreational use of marijuana for adults.
If Michigan voters do opt to legalize and regulate pot for recreational use, only those 21 and older would be permitted to use it. They would still be unable to consume it in a public place or drive under its influence.
Local governments would decide whether or not to allow marijuana-related businesses within their boundaries, and then the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs would regulate those businesses.
Fielder said he is “extremely optimistic” the initiative will be on the ballot and subsequently pass, citing opinion polls indicating the majority of Michiganders support the idea.
“Personally, I feel like it’s the right thing to do,” he added on why he favors legalization and regulation. “This is something a lot of people can benefit from. This is nothing but good for Michigan.”
credit:mlive.com
