Sep 12, 2006 10:21 pm US/Mountain
SAFER: Language Explaining Pot Initiative Is Wrong
DENVER (AP) ―
Supporters of an initiative that would legalize possession of small amounts of marijuana said Tuesday they will ask a judge to block the state from distributing a voters guide, claiming it is misleading.
Mason Tvert, campaign director for Safer Alternative for Enjoyable Recreation, said the voter guide incorrectly claims the initiative would allow people to transfer up to one ounce of marijuana to juveniles 15 and older as long as there is no compensation. The voter guide notes that possession for people under 21 would still be illegal.
The voter guide, known as the blue book because of its cover, is printed by the state and distributed to voters to explain initiatives on the November ballot. It includes statements submitted by supporters and opponents of initiatives on the changes that would be made to state laws.
This year's blue book was approved last week by the Legislative Council.
Tvert said the marijuana initiative would not change current state laws that bar contributing to the delinquency of a minor and make distribution of any amount of marijuana to minors under age 18 a felony.
"For some reason, the Legislative Council wants to make this about children. It's not," Tvert said.
David Evans, an opponent of the initiative, said supporters want to eliminate the crime of possession of marijuana from state statutes, which could allow juveniles under 18 to possess the drug.
"I don't think it's ambiguous at all," Evans said.
(© 2006 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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