Pubdate: Mon, 21 Jul 2014
Source: Marianas Variety (US MP)
Copyright: 2014 Marianas Variety
Contact:  http://www.mvariety.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4642
Author: Richelle Agpoon-Cabang

BENNETT PUSHES MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION

RETIRED teacher Ambrose M. Bennett says he is seeking public support
for a proposal that will legalize marijuana use in the CNMI.

"I must ask our online group to be the ones to present their stance to
the people of the island," Bennett said, referring to a group that has
a Facebook page calling for the decriminalization of marijuana use in
the CNMI. ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/CLC.CNMI/).

Bennett said the proposed legislative initiative will be called the
Marijuana Sunshine Act, and will aim to legalize the cultivation, sale
and use of marijuana in designated areas on island.

It will also increase the child protection laws governing the use of
alcohol, tobacco and marijuana and provide public education on how to
best live safely with marijuana use.

Bennett believes that marijuana legalization will be good for the
islands' tourist industry.

He did not say who among the House members will introduce the
legislative initiative, but added that he will ask the help of more
individuals who support the proposal.

A legislative initiative must be passed by three-fourths of the
members of each house, present and voting. It does not require the
governor's approval but must be ratified by voters.
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MAP posted-by: Matt