Prop 19 Results Announced

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LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The proponents of Proposition 19 received a major setback when California voters rejected the proposal for legalization of marijuana-related activities, its cultivation and trade. Proposition 19, which was rejected yesterday would have allowed people aged 21 or more than that to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and at the same time, it would give the citizens a permission to grow up to 25 square feet of marijuana plants. However, the results show that the proposal was rejected by 57 percent against 43 percent in favor of it.

Proposition 19 supporters are still high on hope as they feel may be they have lost the battle, still their war of legalizing marijuana would continue, sources say. A reputed media source reported that Proposition 19 proponents are optimistic and they have decided to raise the issue during 2012 election. Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance said that though Proposition 19 has received a setback, yet it has elevated and legitimated the “discourse” around marijuana policy. He added that the whole proposal was a bold move and for the first time people from all over the state joined hands to support for the cause. However, after the results are announced he feels that the only debate is that “how” to legalize marijuana in the state.

Previously, Ethan Nadelmann said that if results show that Proposition 19 is rejected, it would be because the supporters who are unsure of the reaction of Government. Proposition 19 has been criticized by many politicians, celebrities and common people as well. Reports suggest that 10 Latin American countries voiced their concern against Proposition 19 before. White House drug policy director Gil Kerlikowske said that President Barack Obama’s administration is has also criticized the Proposition.