Four ballot measures fail to legalize marijuana, psychedelics
(WASHINGTON, DC) – Voters across the United States, in both Republican and Democratic states, rejected soundly the legalization of marijuana and psychedelics despite pro-drug campaigns outspending opponents by more than 20 to 1.
Florida voters rejected the corporate-drafted Amendment 3 which would’ve legalized recreational marijuana in the sunshine state. Voters in Massachusetts rejected the legalization of psychedelics, the new frontier for addiction-for-profit schemes, and North Dakota and South Dakota defeated legalization for the third straight cycle.
Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions (FDPS) and Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) President and CEO Dr. Kevin Sabet, a former senior drug policy advisor to President Obama, released the following statement:
“Tonight was the strongest anti-drug vote we’ve seen in more than a decade. Americans from all backgrounds may have been divided about other races, but they were united in their belief that we do not need to legalize marijuana or psychedelics. This was a resounding defeat for pro-drug industry groups who spent close to $200 Million combined on trying to pass these laws. Thankfully, voters saw through the charade. More and more studies have revealed that states legalizing marijuana have unleashed the pet project of Big Tobacco and Big Alcohol, and the public health price has been steep. Psychosis, youth use and addiction, and rising crime have plagued communities suffering from the effects of legalization.
“The defeats follow the repeal of drug decriminalization in Oregon which happened earlier this year. Working with a broad coalition, we were able to keep those victories coming.”
In Florida alone, the opposition spent over $150 million, making this one of the most expensive ballot measures in American history. Massachusetts pro-psychedelic groups spent more than $8 million.
“With so many Americans dying, it’s time to renew America’s commitment to end this drug epidemic. This goes for all drugs, from fentanyl to highly potent marijuana. Commercializing and normalizing any drug, including marijuana and high-potency THC drugs, have been disastrous in every state where these policies have been attempted.
“We must advance policies that promote widening awareness about today’s drug harms while also implementing expungements for those who deserve a second chance and those suffering from addiction. We hope all elected officials will pursue a science-based approach to drug policy that truly benefits people, not the investors in the addiction-for-profit industry.”