LITTLE ROCK - Backers of a proposed initiative to legalize marijuana use for medical reasons in Arkansas fell more than 30,000 signatures short of placing the issue on the ballot.

The Secretary of State's office said Tuesday the Arkansas Alliance for Medical Marijuana and related organizations have 30 days to make up the shortfall, a race with the clock one leader said will be attempted.

Deputy Secretary of State Janet Miller said the petition included 29,947 signatures that were certified, but 64,456 were needed to get on the Nov. 2 ballot. The group turned in 66,282 signatures.

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