Legal Commentary

Clay Learns From His Mistake: Voters Support Decrim of MJ

By TChris

Only six representatives co-sponsored Barney Franks' sensible bill to end the federal prosecution of marijuana possession for personal use. One of them, Lacy Clay, mistakenly thought it was a medical marijuana bill. Is there now egg on Clay's face? Not at all.

Clay was worried about the reaction. Supporting the liberalization of marijuana laws is not often seen as a political winner, especially in Midwestern cities like St. Louis. But instead of stoner jokes, derision and righteous indignation, Clay was surprised to start getting praise from complete strangers. ...

So far, he said, his calls, mail and contacts are running 80-20 in favor of the bill. He was impressed enough that he decided to go ahead and step before the cameras last week with Frank and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) at a news conference touting the bill.

The prison and law enforcement industries, both of which see marijuana busts as job security, support the war against pot smokers. Many others realize, as Clay has come to believe, that it's a waste of federal resources. [more ...]

The lone Republican co-sponsor is Ron Paul. One might think that other Republicans, who claim to value personal freedom and to oppose big government, would support the bill. But most politicians of either party still fear being labeled "soft on crime." Perhaps that will start to change if Clay continues to receive the support of his constituents in the country's heartland. Of course, it would be useful if more legislators, like Clay, accidentally supported good bills that they haven't read.

In any event, the bill isn't likely to go anywhere this year.

When asked about the prospects of passage last week, Frank didn’t miss a beat in showcasing his sense of humor: “I would say the chances are not high.”

Full post as published by TalkLeft on August 05, 2008 (boomark / email).