We have been posting stories, letters to the editor, OP-Eds and editorials about Question 2. It is too late to write letters to the editor in support, but not to late to post comments on websites. Please remember to vote on November 4, 2008.
OUR OPINION: Our choices
The Patriot Ledger Nov. 1
Question 2 just goes too far for an activity that affects, by even supporters’ best estimates, roughly 12 percent of the state’s residents. …
Top law enforcers call for ‘no’ vote on marijuana question
Boston Globe – Oct 31
…decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana, saying a “yes” vote would only empower…pointing to a table of guns and bags of marijuana that, he said, are found in tandem…the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, making it a civil violation with a…
Editorial: No to all the ballot questions; just vote!
Allston-Brighton Tab – Oct 31
No on Question 2. As proposed, this law would replace criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with citations.
Pot decriminalization won’t change cops’ routines
Littleton Independent – Oct 31
Question 2 on the ballot seeks to decriminalize “small amounts” of marijuana. …
Do you really want teens having easier access to pot?
West Roxbury Transcript – Oct 31
Passage of Question 2 will decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of marijuana and replace criminal sanctions with a fine. …
Referendum questions – Mass.
O Jornal – Fall River Oct 31
Ballot Question 2 is proposing to replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of civil penalties, …
Our view: No on Questions 1, 2 and 3
Eagle Tribune – Oct 31
Our endorsements
Nashoba Publishing – Oct 31
Replace criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. Yes, the legal system has far more serious matters to contend with.
Written by Patriot Staff
Barnstable Patriot – Oct 31
Voters will choose between our current laws or the radical agenda of national marijuana proponents whose end goal is legalization of the drug. …
Suffolk DA Daniel F. Conley
“myths and understand the facts and the facts show. But the marijuana— today is nine times m…”
Wed, 29 Oct 2008 | Boston.com 3 minute video
Whitney Taylor, Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy
“Whitney Taylor, campaign manager for the Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy, explains why she’s…”
Wed, 29 Oct 2008 | Boston.com 2 minute video
Letter: Rational pot policy
Boston Herald Oct 31
By Robert Meenan I applaud Gov. Deval Patrick for drawing attention to the personal and public health implications of drug abuse…
BPD: Just say no to pot
Metro Boston – Oct 31
If the ballot initiative passes, adults caught with less than an ounce of marijuana would pay a $100 fine. Offenders under 18 years old would be required to …
Local churches’ thoughts on ballot questions
Milford Daily News – Oct 31
Lloyd said he does not support decriminalizing marijuana because too many young people struggle with the drug. “It is a drug that leads to other drugs,” he …
Local churches’ thoughts on ballot questions
MetrowestDaily News – Oct 31
Lloyd said he does not support decriminalizing marijuana because too many young people struggle with the drug. “It is a drug that leads to other drugs,” he …
Letter: Stop the theft of time
Cape Cod Times – Oct 30
By Barnstable County Sheriff James Cummings
Letters to the editor for Oct. 30
The Enterprise Brockton – Oct 30
The reality is that one ounce of marijuana is equivalent to about 50 cigarettes and can be easily used for distribution to youth at our
OPED: Support public health: Vote Yes on Question 2
Allston-Brighton TAB – Oct 30
Dr. Robert Meenan is dean of Boston University’s School of Public Health
Question 2 creates a civil penalty system for personal possession of an ounce or less of marijuana. In plain English, it replaces arrest and booking for …
Question Two Discussed
The Republican – Springfield – Oct 30
A snapshot of the voters and how they feel about Question Two
Editorial: Massachusetts Ballot Initiatives
The MIT Tech – Oct 31
This question would replace existing criminal penalties for possession of less than one ounce of marijuana with civil penalties of $100. …
Letter: Mass. police chiefs condemn pro-marijuana ads
Saugus Advertiser – Oct 30
Marijuana proponents, who have been funded largely by the out-of-state drug … “National and state data all show that marijuana use among teens is down, …
Time to predict
South End News – Boston – Oct 30
Question 2 is a different story. If you carry an ounce or less of pot, this ballot initiative means you’re no longer a criminal but someone who could, …
Column: DA says vote no on Question 2; do not decriminalize marijuana
Andover Townsman – Oct 30
OUR VIEW: Vote Yes on Question 2
Fall River Herald News – Oct 30
Question 2 on the Massachusetts ballot, which would decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of marijuana, making it a civil offense, is not a moral or …
Letter: DAs have it wrong on Question 2
Berkshire Eagle – Oct 30
I was quite interested to read the article, “Weed sparking lively debate,” in the Oct. 24 Eagle. I find the arguments put forth by District Attorney David Capeless and the
Point/Counterpoint: It ain’t easy being green
The Massachusetts Daily Collegian – Oct 30
When it comes to Massachusetts’ upcoming vote on marijuana decriminalization, I’ve got plenty. If you shopped at any of the Hadley supermarkets last fall or …
Question 2 a hot topic on the ballot
Taunton Daily Gazette – Oct 30
By Elizabeth Graham, Staff Writer As Election Day draws closer, those for and against decriminalizing some marijuana possession have become increasingly …
Police chief says ‘no’ to Question 2
Canton Citizen – Oct 30
By Jay Turner While voters in Canton appear to be just as willing to reform the state’s marijuana laws as voters in other Massachusetts communities, …
LETTER: No on Mass.’ Question 2: The right thing to do
Fall River Herald News – Oct 30
It is about time that we all come to accept that there is a culture of marijuana users who live without shame or dependence of their use. …
Lynn pol storms out of meeting
The Daily Item of Lynn – Oct 30
… Tuesday’s City Council meeting as councilors discussed their stance on ballot Question 2, which would decriminalize possession of an ounce of marijuana. …
Galvin predicts record voter turnout
Wakefield Observer – Oct 30
Regarding Question 2, he said, “We have real crime in this state. We should focus on more serious crimes. It doesn’t make sense to prosecute someone holding …
Ballot questions to consider
Scituate Mariner – Oct 30
The three binding statewide ballot questions relate to reducing and then eliminating the state personal income tax, decriminalizing marijuanause and …
Chiefs: No on Question 2
The Landmark (Holden, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland and Sterling) – Oct 30
As members of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, we encourage residents to vote no on ballot Question2. Every law enforcement agency, …
OUR OPINION: Question 2: A solution in search of a problem
The Patriot Ledger – Oct 29
We think, however, that Question 2 asking voters to decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of pot in order to relieve juveniles and adults of criminal …
Tackling the Three Ballot Questions
WSHM-TV – Springfield – Oct 29 11:00 News with Video
Next, possession of marijuana. A yes vote would replace criminal penalties for an ounce or less, with civil penalties. “It’s simply about protecting people …
Mass. ministers mobilize to oppose pot question
Berkshire Eagle, MA – Oct 30
Question 2 would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana a civil rather than criminal offense. The Boston Globe reports that the letter from the …
Ministers mobilize to oppose pot question
WHDH-TV – Oct 29
Question 2 would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana a civil rather than criminal offense. The Boston Globe rports that the letter from the …
Ministers Mobilize To Oppose Pot Question
Boston Channel.com – Oct 30
Question 2 would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana a civil rather than criminal offense. The Boston Globe reported that the letter from the …
Question 2 would change marijuana laws
Chelmsford Independent – Oct 29
By David Golann/Correspondent With less than a week before the election, supporters of marijuana decriminalization in Massachusetts are pretty stoked. …
EDITORIAL: Question 2: In search of a problem
Enterprise News – Brockton – Oct 29
… there certainly are more pressing issues than criminally prosecuting those who privately use marijuana. We think, however, that Question 2 asking voters …
Editorial: Decriminalize pot? No
Sun Chronicle – Attleboro – Oct 29
If only because of timing, ballot question 2 appears rather frivolous. Massachusetts, like the rest of the nation, is wrestling with what could become an economic crisis. So on Nov. 4, voters are being asked to decriminalize marijuana? You would find…
Letter to the editor: Vote ‘yes’ on Question 2 to rectify absurd drug stance
Gloucester Times – Oct 29
It is about time that we look at the question of drugs in a serious, intelligent manner.
Letter: Vote ‘No’ on Question 2
Dover-Sherborn Press – Oct 29
Question 2 will decriminalize the use and possession of one ounce of … This is , in my opinion, preposterous, and I urge you to vote NO on Question 2. …
Dog racing vote nearly even in polls
Taunton Daily Gazette – Oct 29
Question 2, which would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana, had the support of 51 percent of respondents, while 32 percent opposed it …
Police: Vote no on marijuana
The Republican – Oct 29
A yes vote on Question 2 would decriminalize possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, and a no vote would keep the current laws. Under Question 2 on the …
Perspective: Vote ‘No’ on Question 2
Allston-Brighton TAB – Oct 28
Voters will choose between a steadily declining rate of marijuana use among teenagers and the message that drug use is safe and acceptable. …
Editorial: Question 2: Despite concerns, vote Yes
Belmont Citizen-Herald – Oct 28
By Staff reports Voting to decriminalize small quantities of marijuana might be seen as a difficult proposition and there are some legitimate concerns with …
Police Officers Battle Over Question 2
WSHM-TV – Springfield – Oct 28
At issue is ballot question #2, which would de-criminalize the possession of an ounce or less of marijuana. For the second time in 10 days, police chiefs …
Newton Police see little savings in call to decriminalize pot
Newton TAB, MA – Oct 28
And though Ballot Question 2, which will be before voters on Nov. 4, only decriminalizes the drug, Miron said there is still a cost benefit, no matter how …
Dracut police chief urges ‘no’ vote on Question 2
Lowell Sun – Oct 28
As a member of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, I encourage residents to vote “no” on ballot Question 2.
QUESTION 2: Issues of fairness in bid to ease pot-possession penalty
Lowell Sun – Oct 27
It may inspire a host of Cheech and Chong jokes, but to lobbyists on either side of the proposal to decriminalize marijuana possession in Massachusetts, the issue is no laughing matter. For the second time in eight years, voters here will also…
My View: Plenty of good reasons to vote yes on Question 2
The Salem News – Oct 28
The election of 2008 holds promise of a sea change in Massachusetts politics with a close vote on Question 1 and a powerfully strong vote on Question 2. …
OP-ED: Vote no on Question 2
North Adams Transcript – Oct 27
…Economist magazine has called the most radical marijuana ballot initiative in the country. Passage of Question 2 will decriminalize marijuana use and turn possession of an ounce or less of marijuana into a $100 fine,
My View: Vote ‘no’ on Question 2 — for health, safety and our children
Gloucester Daily Times – Oct 28
The Question 2 initiative to make marijuana possession a civil offense, as opposed to a criminal matter, is being funded by out-of-state money, …
No on Question 2
Berkshire Eagle – Pittsfield – Oct 28
If those arrested for possession of marijuana were actually having their employment or school loans jeopardized and their lives ruined, there could be an …
Vote yes on Question 2
Justice (Brandeis) – Oct 28
A particularly balanced, reasoned and yet controversial proposal is Question 2, which would partially decriminalize marijuana possession in the commonwealth …
DA Blodgett speaks out against Question 2
Hamilton-Wenham Chronicle – Oct 27
Essex District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett talked about his opposition to Question 2 — which would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana …
Question 2: Hashing out the pros and cons of marijuana
Enterprise News Brockton – Oct 27
This proposed law would replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of civil penalties, to be enforced …
Ballot questions not final word
The Republican – Oct 27
Prosecutors, for example, might press the state Legislature to weaken or reverse a proposal to decriminalize the possession of an ounce or less of marijuana …
Our View: Questions 1-3: Vote no
The Salem News – Oct 27
Thus we would urge a no vote on Question 2, which would replace the existing criminal penalties for marijuana possession with a system of civil penalties …
2 sides to pot question
Worcester Telegram – Oct 26
By Aaron Nicodemus TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF A ballot question that would decriminalize — but not legalize — possession of small amounts of marijuana is …
Do you support decriminalizing possession of small amounts of …
Eagle Tribune – Oct 26
4 would decriminalize possession of less than one ounce of marijuana. Those caught with the drug would face a civil fine of $100. …
Question 2 carries economic, social cost
Berkshire Eagle Oct 26
by David F. Capeless, Berkshire County district attorney
MassLive offers voter info
The Republican – Oct 26
… statewide ballot questions dealing with the repeal of the state income tax, decriminalization of small amounts of marijuana, and banning dog racing. …
Question resurrects old debate
The Republican – Oct 26
4 ballot question that seeks to decriminalize possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, saying that use of the illegal drug is becoming more acceptable. …
BOSTON GLOBE LETTERS – Oct 26
QUESTION 2Support it in spirit of rehabilitation
QUESTION 2Let current law stand
QUESTION 2Goal is to decriminalize
QUESTION 2Marijuana shouldn’t be illegal in the first place
Ballot questions on the table
Cohasset Mariner, Oct 24
There are three binding statewide ballot questions related to reducing and then eliminating the state personal income tax; decriminalizing marijuana use and …
Nov. 4 election will choose president, senator
Jamaica Plain Gazette Oct 24
Question 2 would remove criminal penalties for possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana. Instead, an adult offender would get a $100 fine, and a juvenile …
POLL: Question 2 (Possession of marijuana decriminalization)
Winchester Star, MA – Oct 24
By Source: Massachusetts Secretary of State This proposed law would replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a …
THE CONS: Two sides of one leaf; hashing out the pros and cons of …
Winchester Star, MA – Oct 24
Question 2 on November’s ballot will decriminalize marijuana use and turn possession of an ounce or less of marijuana into a fine similar to a traffic …
THE PROS: Two sides of one leaf; hashing out the pros and cons of …
Winchester Star, MA – Oct 24
Question 2 does not legalize marijuana, just as the decriminalization of speeding did not legalize speeding. The only radical aspect is that, if approved, …
7News/Suffolk Poll
WHDH-TV, MA – Oct 24
Our poll also shows the state may just say yes to decriminalizing marijuana. That’s Question 2 on the ballot, and 51% are for it; 32% against. …
Go here for marginals and cross tabulations of the recent poll
Suffolk University Political Research Center Web site
Representatives, police chief oppose loosening marijuana laws
Halifax-Plympton Reporter – Oct 24
By Matthew Nadler The decriminalization of marijuana possession is the aim of one of the three statewide ballot measures voters will find on Election Day. …
POLL: NO WANT TO AXE THE TAX
WHYN – Springfield – Oct 24
The poll also indicated voters favor a second question that would decriminalize small amounts of marijuana, and were split on a third question that would …
Lt. Gov. Murray gets some tough questions from Weymouth students
Enterprise News – Brockton – Oct 24
Murray, a former lawyer, said he opposes that question because he is concerned about marijuana’s potential as a gateway drug.
Debate heats up over Question Two
“(Greg Wayland, NECN) – The proposed law would replace criminal penalties for possession of an ounce …”
Thu, 23 Oct 2008 | Boston.com Play this video 2 minutes
Poll indicates half of voters want marijuana decriminalized
Boston Globe – Oct 24
…proposal to decriminalize the possession of marijuana has the support of about half of Massachusetts…radical drug legalization agenda.” “Teen marijuana abuse has been declining for years…penalties for possessing one ounce or less of marijuana with a civil fine of $100, the equivalent…
Poll: Mass. voters saying yes to pot, no to tax cut
Eagle Tribune – Lawrence – Oct 24
An initiative to decriminalize an ounce or less of marijuana is having more success. Of those polled, 51 percent said they support the question, …
Obama wins, income tax repeal loses in poll
Boston Business Journal – Oct 24
Some 59 percent of voters plan to vote against ballot Question 1, which would eliminate the income tax, researchers from Suffolk University found. …
Poll: Voters saying yes to pot, no to tax cut
Worcester Telegram – Oct 24
An initiative to decriminalize an ounce or less of marijuana is having more success. Of those polled, 51 percent said they support the question, …
Suffolk University Political Research Center Web site
No spurring the pot
Boston Globe – Oct 24
By Adrien Walker, .how fond we in Massachusetts are of our marijuana. However, I have been educated in recent…decriminalize possession of up to one ounce of marijuana. In response, I have been called everything…friend. The movement to decriminalize marijuana is more popular than they – or I – ever…
Ex-cop in pro-Question 2 ad paid for ‘consulting’
Boston Herald – Oct 24
A retired Boston cop who appears in a pro-marijuana political ad was paid $850 in “consulting
Letter: Many reasons to oppose legalization of marijuana
The Salem News, Oct 24
An ounce of marijuana is equivalent to about 50 cigarettes and can be easily used for distribution to youth at our schools. Under current law a first-time …
OUR VIEW: Question 2: A question of age and maturity
Standard –Times – New Bedford – Oct 24
The marijuana question on the state ballot has a problem unrelated to the main arguments against it. Beyond worries about marijuana being a gateway to …
Talk of marijuana sparks lively debate
Berkshire Eagle – Oct 24
Taylor and other Question 2 proponents say the goal is to keep people who are arrested for possessing small amounts of marijuana from acquiring criminal …
Dog racing and wind energy: Two more questions on Nov. 3 ballot
Norwell Mariner – Oct 23
The three binding statewide ballot questions relate to reducing and then eliminating the state personal income tax; decriminalizing marijuana use and …
LETTERS: A look at the ballot questions
Mansfield News – Oct 23
Question 2seeks to reduce the penalties for possession and this is something I think we can all agree with. In fact let’s legalize it and tax it as much or
Editorial:Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
Danvers Herald – Oct 23
By Staff reports Possession of even the smallest amount of marijuana is illegal in all 50 states, and has been since 1938. That hasn’t stopped Americans …
Police against decriminalizing marijuana
Brookline Tab – Oct 24
I was never asked directly whether we supported Question 2, and if I had, … There are a lot of concerns and unknowns about Question 2, in our profession, …
Question 2 takes a hit
Berkeley Beacon (Emerson College) – Oct 23
What’s unfortunate is advocates of Question 2 have legitimate arguments against the conservative view that possession of marijuana is a criminal penalty. …
I encourage residents to vote “NO” on ballot question two
Cape Cod Today – Oct 23
As law enforcement officials, we have seen generations of young people use marijuana as a gateway to harder drug use. Supporting this ballot question gives …
Vote No on Question 2: Marijuana myths fiction vs. facts
The Community Journal – Ashburnham & Westminster – Oct 23
Fiction: Massachusetts law harshly punishes first time offenders who are convicted of possessing marijuana. Fact: Massachusetts law requires that judges …
2008 ballot questions in the town of Amherst
Amherst Bulletin – Oct 23
Question 2: Asks whether possession of one ounce or less of marijuana be a civil rather than a criminal violation, with offenders over 18 subject to …
Officials decry decriminalization measure
Fall River Herald News – Oct 23
By Michael Holtzman Marijuana is a dangerous “gateway” drug and decriminalizing possession sends a terrible message to young people, county law enforcement …
With Video of Press Conference in GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Hub rips pot ads
Boston Herald – Oct 23
Boston cops and Mayor Thomas M. Menino are up in arms that pictures of two uniformed cops…
New poll about marijuana
Littleton Independent- Oct 23
New poll about marijuana –
Will you vote to decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of marijuana on the Nov. .
POLL: Ballot questions
Lexington Minuteman – Oct 22
Question 2: Replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of civil penalties ( surveys) …
Leone and Brown: Question 2 is dangerous for our kids and …
Watertown TAB & Press – Oct 22
Leone and Brown: Question 2 is dangerous for our kids and communities
Marijuana question heats up
The Republican – Oct 22
4 ballot question that would decriminalize possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, saying the proponents are spreading misinformation about the impact …
Marijuana reform right for Bay State
The Republican – Springfield – Oct 22
by The Republican Newsroom You have friends and family members and co-workers who have smoked marijuana. You may have even indulged a bit yourself back in …
Question Two: What about the children?
Metro Boston – Oct 22
On Election Day, voters in Massachusetts have the opportunity to remove the criminal penalties associated with possessing one ounce or less of marijuana. …
The Globe Is Wrong On Question 2!!!
The Phoenix – Boston – Oct 22
If it seems like I was just yesterday commending The Boston Globe for its coverage of ballot Question 2 concerning marijuana decriminalization; it’s because …
Op-Ed: A sensible state marijuana policy
Cape Cod Times – Oct 22
As a former first assistant attorney general, a lifelong resident of Massachusetts, a father of three and both drafter and original signatory to Question 2, I’ve dedicated my professional life to creating a safer and more just commonwealth.
Marijuana question heats up
The Republican – Springfield – Oct 22
4 ballot question that would decriminalize possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, saying the proponents are spreading misinformation about the impact …
Pillsbury says he’ll challenge Richardson
MetroWest Daily News – Oct 22
Pillsbury pointed to Richardson not supporting ballot Question 2, which would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana, as an example of her …
LETTER: Consider effects of marijuana
Standard-Times – New Bedford – Oct 22
On Question 2 on the ballot, proponents (those who favor decriminalizing a small amount of marijuana) say that the state law on the use of marijuana is a …
DAs: Reject pot ballot question
Taunton Daily Gazette – Oct 21, 2008
Milford Daily News- Oct 21
MetroWest Daily News – Oct 21
Daily News Tribune – Oct 21
Daily News Transcript – Oct 21
Taunton Daily Gazette – Oct 21
Patriot Ledger – Quincy – Oct 21
By John P. Kelly Local district attorneys have come out against decriminalizing an ounce or less of marijuana, as proposed on ballot Question 2. …
No on Question 2
Boston Globe – Oct 21
is a poor solution to the problem…
Editorial: Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
Milford Daily News – Oct 21
Editorial: Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
MetroWest Daily News – Oct 21
Editorial: Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
Daily News Tribune – Oct 21
Possession of even the smallest amount of marijuana is illegal in all 50 states, and has been since 1938. That hasn’t stopped Americans from using the drug. …
Ballot questions debated: Income tax, marijuana, dog racing
MetroWest Daily News – Oct 21
Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone and Whitney A. Taylor, chairwoman and campaign manager of the Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy …
ARTICLE & LETTER: Group headed up by local resident promotes passage of Question 2
Reading Daily Times Chronicle – Oct 20
A local resident is heading up an organization that is in favor of a yes vote on Question 2, (A letter in support of Question 2 Page A11)
COLUMN: A look at the ballot questions
Norton Mirror – Oct 20
That’s how much is currently spent arresting and prosecuting non-violent people who are caught …
Reefer Madness Continues
Boston Magazine – Oct 20
“The bottom line is that this sends a message that it’s OK to use marijuana …
DAs fight bid to ease penalty for marijuana
Boston Globe – Oct 20, 2008
The prosecutors – who would have faced obstacles to attaining their law enforcement positions had they been caught – are now among the leading opponents of a proposition …
Sitting In: Question 2: ‘A dangerous proposal for our kids and …
Melrose Free Press Oct. 19
For the first time in years we have some good news on drugs: Marijuana use … Question 2 on November’s ballot will decriminalize marijuana use and turn …
Boston Globe Page One Podcast for Oct 20, 2008
Boston Globe – Oct 20, 2008
“O’Keefe. Told globe reporter David — recently that they either tried marijuana in their use….”
Listen to this 6 minutes
Jimmy Myers on Leaglized Drugs
WTKK-96.9FM Oct – 19
Jimmy Myers with Guest Jack Cole. Cole, Co-Founder & Executive Director of LEAP (Law Enforceme…
Listen to this 8 minutes
Candidates weigh in on state budget cuts
Sentinel & Enterprise, Fitchburg – Oct 20
Candidates also disagreed on Question 2 on this year’s referendum ballot, a proposal to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana. Kamuda supports it, while Rice remains opposed.
VIDEO: Debating Ballot Question 2, marijuana
Salem News editorial page editor Nelson Benton moderates a debate on Ballot Question 2, which deals with decriminalizing marijuana. The guests are Steven Epstein of the Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition and Peabody police Chief Robert Champagne. The debate was hosted by BevCam Studios in Beverly.
It is a little over twenty minutes long.
Letter: Hanna: Misleading voters about marijuana
Daily News Tribune – Waltham – Oct 19
Also in:
Metrowest Daily News – Framingham – Oct 19
Milford Daily News – Oct 19
The DA says marijuana is now 30 percent THC to scare voters and trick parents. How can we trust him on other matters when we catch him in this big lie? …
Capeless, Ruberto urge voters to say ‘heck no’
Berkshire Eagle – Oct 17
The controversial November ballot initiative aims to decriminalize marijuana possession for those caught with an ounce of pot or less. …
District Attorney Cruz, Keating urge ‘no’ vote on marijuana question
Enterprise News, Brockton – Oct 18
Regional district attorneys are challenging a belief among some voters that decriminalizing an ounce or less of marijuana – as proposed on …
District Attorney Cruz, Keating urge ‘no’ vote on marijuana …
Patriot Ledger – Quincy – Oct 18
Cruz said the street value of an ounce of marijuana can be as high as $600 and is enough to roll …
Some (ballot) questions to consider
Hanover Mariner – Oct 17Taylor claims that passage of Question 2 would not increase marijuana use
Candidates answer on the issues affecting Winchester and Stoneham
The Winchester Star – Oct 17
The Stoneham Sun – Oct 17
Officials rally against Question 2
Berkshire Eagle – Pittsfield – Oct 17
Specifically, they’ll be voicing opposition to a November ballot initiative that would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana
OP-ED Challenging the pot-smokers
The Massachusetts Daily Collegian – Oct 17
Marijuana decriminalization is, in fact, a social justice issue. It’s the largest contributor to arrests in the nationwide – and increasingly globalized …
Barbara Anderson: A reluctant ‘yes’ on Question 2
The Salem News – Oct 17
I and myself are having a conversation about Question 2, the initiative petition on the November ballot to decriminalize marijuana. …
Column: Casting a reluctant ‘yes’ on Question 2
The Eagle-Tribune Oct 16
By Barbara Anderson, executive director of Citizens for Limited Taxation. Her column appears weekly in the Salem News and other Eagle Tribune newspapers; bi-weekly in the Tinytown Gazette; and occasionally in the Lowell Sun, Providence (RI) Journal and other newspapers.
COLUMN: Something to vote for
Amherst Bulletin – Oct 17
Question 2 replaces criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with citations similar to traffic fines. …
School committee takes stand on ballot questions
Halifax-Plympton Reporter – Oct 16
Mark Guidoboni said decriminalizing possession of less than an ounce of marijuana would protect teens and young adults from losing their eligibility for …
School committee takes stand on ballot questions
Wicked Local Kingston – Oct 16
Economy dominates debate
Wicked Local Boxborough – Oct 16
Economy dominates debate
Wicked Local Acton – Oct 16
O’Connor addresses the important issues
Stoneham Sun – Oct 16
Marijuana decriminalization is an, “endorsement of substance abuse and dangerous criminal activity, and sends the wrong message to young people. …
Riley addresses the important issues
Stoneham Sun – Oct 16
Ballot Question 2 (decriminalization of marijuana). I will vote ‘No,’ however I recognize the long-term draconian effects current laws can have on some …
Op-Ed: Leone/Brown: Question 2 a slippery slope to increased drug use
Daily News Tribune – Waltham – Oct 10
For the first time in years we have some good news on drugs: Marijuana use among Massachusetts teens has declined significantly since 2001.
This Op-Ed also appears in the:
Melrose Free Press – Oct 19
Metrowest Daily News – Oct 10
Milford Daily News – Oct 10
Letter: Question 2: A dangerous proposal
Wakefield Observer – Oct 17
Letter: Question 2: A dangerous proposal
Stoneham Sun – Oct 16
DA: Don’t decriminalize marijuana
Hudson Sun – Oct 16
Burlington Union Oct 14
Editorial: Question 2 goes too far
Wicked Local – Saugus, Oct 16
Editorial: Question 2 goes too far
Wicked Local – Amesbury, Oct 13
Editorial: Question 2 goes too far
Wicked Local – Beverly, Oct 15
Youth education called strenghth of marijuana bill
Brookline Tab – Oct 16
A Brookline police spokesman praised a ballot initiative to decriminalize marijuana possession, saying it would give police and health professionals more …
Voters will choose more than President Nov. 4
Hingham Journal – Oct 16
Question 2 – Possession of marijuana: A Yes vote would replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of …
EDITORIAL: No on Question 2
Lowell Sun Oct 16
Some residents may be a bit confused as to exactly what Massachusetts Ballot Question 2 will do if approved by voters on Nov. 4. Question 2 proposes to decriminalize possession of one ounce or less of marijuana.
Holmes: Marijuana skirmish in the war on drugs
Daily News Tribune – Waltham – Oct 15
Marijuana is more addictive and more potent than ever, opponents repeat with “Reefer Madness” alarm. It’s a “gateway drug,” they are still saying,
Also in:
Metro West Daily News – Framingham – Oct 15
Milford Daily News – Oct 15
Daily News Transcript – Norwood – Oct 15
Posting comment at any one of these papers appears in all four.
Look for it to be picked up by other wickedlocal papers
http://home.wickedlocal.com/towns/
Editorial: Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
Newton Tab – Oct 15
We all know people who smoke pot. We may not know that they do, because they do it privately, but they do. They don’t flaunt it or abuse it. They believe it’s much like alcohol …
Editorial: Vote ‘Yes’ on Question 2
Brookline Tab, Oct 15We all know people who smoke marijuana. We may not know that they do, because they do it privately, but they do. They believe it’s much like alcohol when …
November’s 3 ballot questions
Northborough-Southborough Villager – Oct 15
But maybe I can get your attention this way—are you in favor of decriminalizing possession of a small amount of marijuana?…
This week’s ballot question
Woburn Advocate – Oct 15
This proposed law would replace the criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a new system of civil penalties, to be enforced …
EDITORIAL: A Fully Baked Proposal
Harvard Crimson – Oct 15One of the measures on the ballot, Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, would partially decriminalize marijuana use by reducing criminal penalties on possession
Reefer Madness Revisited
Valley Advocate – Easthampton – Oct 16
Last week, a group of local police chiefs, district attorneys and sheriffs gathered outside West Springfield High to warn of the dire consequences they insist will result if Massachusetts voters decide next month to amend the state marijuana laws. “Ballot Question 2 is a green light to drug dealers to target young children, especially high school students, to buy and use drugs,” Hampden County DA Bill Bennett said ominously. Well, not quite. Question 2…
Pot shots: DA says pot initiative would be bad for kids
By Sarah Menesale and Barbara Taormina
For years, Georgetown’s Steve Epstein has been out in front on the fight to reform marijuana laws. . . . .
This story also appears under the title A burning issue in the Newburyport Current.
very similar stories appeared in:
Daily News Tribune, Waltham; Daily News Transcript, Norwood; Taunton Daily Gazette; MetroWest Daily News; Milford Daily News; Beverly Citizen; Georgetown Record; Ipswich Chronicle; Swampscott Reporter
Weeding out the issue of Question 2
Sun Chronicle – Attleboro – Oct 14
Proponents say ballot Question 2 simply makes sense. By reducing possession of small amounts of marijuana to a civil offense, Massachusetts law enforcement could spend time and money fighting violent crime; young people caught with pot would no longe…
Pot: Civil case or crime? Police chief, attorney clash over easing …
The Salem News – Oct 14
Voters asked to loosen marijuana laws
The Daily News of Newburyport – Oct 14
LETTER: Question 2 can aid both offenders, state coffers
Cape Cod Times – Oct 13
LETTER Blowing smoke
Boston Herald – Oct 13
Question 2 backers say a little pot no big deal
Standard-Times – New Bedford, Oct 12
By David Kibbe BOSTON — Massachusetts would join 11 other states in decriminalizing the possession of up to an ounce of marijuana, making it akin to a …
Pro-pot advocates: Radio ad misrepresents question
Lowell Sun – Oct 11
By Lyle Moran, Sun Correspondent
BOSTON — The group fighting to reduce penalties for marijuana possession in Massachusetts charged yesterday that opponents are misrepresenting their ballot question….
Also appears in:
Sentinel & Enterprise – Fitchburg Oct 11
‘No’ on Question 2
Worcester Telegram – Oct 10
Proponents of Question 2, which would decriminalize possession of up to an ounce of marijuana, are asking voters to take a triple leap of faith. …
Poll on ballot questions shows voters oppose axing state income tax
The Republican-MassLive.com-Oct 10
On Question 2, which would decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of marijuana, 62 percent said yes, 32 percent said no and 5 percent said they were undecided or declined to give an opinion.
Bill Would Decriminalize Small Amounts of Marijuana “binding referendum that would decriminalize the use of small amounts of marijuanaannounce or…”
WCVB – The BostonChannel, Oct 9 Play this video 2 minutes
Law Enforcement Officials Against Question 2
abc40, Springfield – Oct 9
It’s a proposal to decriminalize marijuana in the Commonwealth. It would make possession of less than an ounce a $100 fine. Proponents say it would save …
LETTER: CORI’s bad trip
Boston Herald – Oct 10
By David Edwards, As a parent, I’m in full support of Question 2 (“Question 2 leads down slippery slope,” Oct….
DA Blodgett speaks out against Question 2
Georgetown Record – Oct 9
Mary Jane, pot, weed, ganga — call it what you want, but Massachusetts voters will decide on a burning issue in the Nov. 4 election that’s caused quite a stir between advocates and opponents of current marijuana laws in the commonwealth.
This story also appears in the:
Daily News Tribune, Waltham
Daily News Transcript, Norwood
Taunton Daily Gazette
MetroWest Daily News
Milford Daily News
Ipswich Chronicle
Swampscott Reporter
Proposal would make marijuana possession a matter of $100 fine
Middleboro Gazette – Oct 9
For offenders over the age of 18, penalties would include forfeiture of the marijuana plus a $100 civil fine. Offenders under the age of 18 would also have …
EDITORIAL: A harmless initiative?
Cape Cod Times – Oct 9
Question 2 on the November ballot, which asks voters to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana, is new wine in an old bottle. It’s time has not come.
LETTER: CORI madness
Boston Herald – Oct 9
By DeChantal Jordan
Contrary to the implications of your editorial, people possessing a small amount of pot are now arrested and booked…
LETTER: Question 2 dopiness
Boston Herald – Oct 8
By James W. Carnell, , Area A-1 representative Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association
The conundrum facing police if this foolishness passes is this: Under existing law, I can arrest people who are…
OPED: Predicting question 2 to go up in smoke
The Massachusetts Daily Collegian – Amherst – Oct 7
On this campus, the legal status of marijuana is apparently a hot-button issue. I have been solicited by hippies when I enter the Worcester Dining Commons …
Town fights marijuana use
Reading Advocate – Oct 6
By Stephen Vittorioso Youths today are logging onto social-networking Web sites to view photos, send messages and obtain marijuana, according to Erica …
LETTER:Booze no better
Boston Herald – Oct 6
By Dana Winsor
Clearly the debate regarding the decriminalization, or legalization, of marijuana amounts to reefer madness (“Question…
OPED: Question 2 poses no threat
Berkshire Eagle – Oct 6
By Peter Martin The front page article in the Sept. 18 Eagle notes “Marijuana proponents take on state attorneys.
OPED: Yes or no, each question needs answer
Berkshire Eagle – Oct 6
By Ruth Bass Everyone dislikes ballot questions. Without a scorecard, it’s often tough to figure out whether yes means yes or yes means no and vice versa. In addition, many ballot
@ Odds: Measure opens the door to more problems…
Boston Globe, Oct 5
By Gerry Leone and The Rev. Jeffrey Brown
FOR THE first time in years there is good news on drugs: Marijuana use among Massachusetts teens has declined significantly since 2001….
@ Odds: A responsible change to an unfair law…
Boston Globe, Oct 5
By Tom Kiley
BY ENDING the creation of permanent criminal records for minor marijuana offenders, dealing with juvenile marijuana use in a stricter yet more responsible way, and saving taxpayers an estimated $30 million a year, Question 2 will work for Massachusetts. . . .
Plymouth DA: Pot ballot question a deal for dealers
The Sentinel Wicked Local Marion, MA Oct 4
Ballot Question 2 proposes to decriminalize possession of up to an ounce of marijuana, which Cruz said is no small potatoes. An ounce equates to about 30 to …
EDITORIAL: Question 2 leads down slippery slope
Boston Herald – Oct 2.
Supporters of Question 2 get very prickly when anyone suggests their effort to decriminalize…
LETTER: High on Question 2
Boston Herald – Oct 2
I would never support the legalization of marijuana, just like the majority of the supporters of Question 2. But the Herald has decided to play politics and …
LETTER: Column got it right on pot issue
The Standard Times – Oct 2
If there is any violence connected to marijuana, it comes from its prohibition, not from its use. In 2000, Amsterdam encouraged pot smoking during its …
Martha Coakley dismisses marijuana question complaint
Boston Herald – Oct. 1
Associated Press BOSTON – Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley has rejected a complaint by backers of a pro-marijuana…
Coakley dismisses marijuana question complaint
Worcester Telegram, Oct. 1
AP BOSTON— Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley has rejected a complaint by backers of a pro-marijuana ballot question against the state’s 11 …
Coakley dismisses marijuana question complaint
abc40, MA – Sept. 30
AP – September 30, 2008 5:04 PM ET BOSTON (AP) – Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley has rejected a complaint by backers of a pro-marijuana ballot …
OPINION: In Mass., it’s a ‘green’ ballot
The Massachusetts Daily Collegian (U-Mass Amherst) Oct. 1
These days it seems like marijuana is causing tax payers to lose more money than brain cells. It is estimated that by decriminalizing possession of less …
Study: THC levels reach record high
The Llama Ledger (Simon’s Rock, Great Barrington) Oct. 1
The University’s Potency Monitoring Project compared current marijuana samples to some seized since 1975 from 48 states. The highest level of concentration …
OPINION: Going Green: An Alternative Culture Column
Tufts Observer Online Sept. 29
I originally approached the editor with a pitch for this column because I think marijuana and the culture that surrounds it is no longer at the fringes of …
ON LINE LETTER Powers-that-be might be wrong
Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Sept. 29
So, the Massachusetts district attorneys oppose the pot ballot question (Telegram & Gazette, Sept. 18). Lets see: decriminalization of marijuana is a bad idea that will cost society dearly.
“Blunt Object” Follow-Up: Attorney General Coakley Responds To …
The Phoenix – Sept. 30
In my recent Phoenix article, “Blunt Object,” regarding Commonwealth marijuana reform, I guessed that Attorney General Martha Coakley would decline to scold …
LETTER: Sense about pot
Boston Herald – Sept 30
By Whitney A. Taylor Regardless of what some of its proponents may personally support, Question 2 simply does not legalize marijuana – period (Sept. 24).
LETTER: Drug war keeps enforcers employed
The Standard Times – New Bedford – Sept 30
The guards know that ending marijuana prohibition would be the “gateway” to waking up Massachusetts to ending all prohibition. As with most questions in …
LETTER: Next step homegrown
Boston Herald – Sept 29
By Carl Hedberg While Question 2 is a step in the right direction, it still forces cannabis consumers to buy from unscrupulous and potentially dangerous …
OPINION: FLANAGAN: Is Massachusetts sending pot the way of drunkenness?
Attleboro Sun Chronicle, Sept. 26
Is history repeating itself? Or are Bristol County’s best known law-enforcement officials trying to use child psychology on the voters? The questions come to mind in the wake of a press conference last Friday, where District Attorney Sam Sutter, thre…
LETTER: High on support
Boston Herald, MA – Sept 26
By Madeline Webster
Massachusetts being bankrolled for Question 2 is the culmination of years of work…
Mayor opposes pot legalization
Somerville News, MA – Sept 26
Drug use is a public health, safety and quality of life issue and Question 2 would increase marijuana use while putting more of our youth behind the wheel …
Up In Smoke Pot Politics and the Public, The Move to decriminalize Marijuana
Worcester Magazine – Sept. 25
by Jim Keough
OPINION: Questions of taxes and pot
Barnstable Patriot, MA – Sept 25
A Yes vote on Question 2 to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana makes all the sense in the world. The truth is that arresting and jailing …
MassCann to the man: put it in your bong, smoke it
Berkeley Beacon (Emerson College) – Sept 25
This initiative will officially appear as Question 2 on the November ballot in Massachusetts. Under current Mass. law, people charged with marijuana …
OPINION: Just say nope to banning dope
Berkeley Beacon (Emerson College) – Sept 25
The marijuana decriminalization initiative proposed by the Massachusetts-based Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy has been officially named Question 2 …
Pro Question 2
The Suffolk Journal (Suffolk University) – Sept 25
One of the biggest issues being pushed at the rally was Question 2, the marijuana measure. Supporters were handing out colorful literature, stickers, …
The political fight over a November marijuana-reform ballot …
The Phoenix, MA – Sept 25
With Election Day’s Question 2 ballot initiative threatening to reduce the penalty for less than one ounce of weed to a mere civil slap and $100 fine, …
Supporters of initiative to change pot laws deny legalization goal
Boston Herald – Sept 25
Taylor, who would not be interviewed, also wrote: “The Herald’s effort to confuse Bay Staters into thinking Question 2 is about marijuana legalization is a …
Marijuana vote has allies on both sides
Boston Globe, North Region – Sep 24
“Marijuana remains illegal under Question 2,” she said, arguing that the measure actually provides for more certain consequences for offenders under age 18. …
Plymouth DA: Pot ballot question a deal for dealers
MetroWest Daily News, MA – Sept 24
Ballot Question 2 proposes to decriminalize possession of up to an ounce of marijuana, which Cruz said is no small potatoes. An ounce equates to about 30 to …
Plymouth DA: Pot ballot question a deal for dealers
Daily News Tribune, MA – Sept 24
Ballot Question 2 proposes to decriminalize possession of up to an ounce of marijuana, which Cruz said is no small potatoes. An ounce equates to about 30 to …
Pro-pot backers aim high
Boston Herald – Sept 23
The Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy, which placed Question 2 on the November ballot, collected from the Marijuana Policy Project $200000, …
OPINION: Decriminalizing Marijuana
Comment (Bridgewater State) – Sept. 24
There is a ballot question coming up in this year’s election in Massachusetts asking whether you think marijuana should be decriminalized. …
EDITORIAL: No ‘Question’ about it
Daily Free Press (Boston Univ.) – Sept 22
… for “Question 2,” a proposition on the Nov. 4 ballot that would effectively decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana in Massachusetts. …
Rally brings thousands to Common
Daily Free Press (Boston Univ.) – Sept 22
If passed, “Question 2” would decriminalize the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana for individuals over 18 years of age, decreasing the maximum …
DC donations flood Mass. ballot question campaigns
The Standard Times, New Bedford – Sept 21
… 20013, came in seventh on the list, thanks to a $180000 donation from the Marijuana Policy Project to help make the case to voters for Question 2, …
On the Common, they like the grass
Boston Globe, Sept 21
…question that would decriminalize marijuana possession in the state. “No doubt. I’m for legalization of marijuana. Legalize gay marrage and legalize…Supporters of both Question 2, the marijuana measure, and Question 1, which would…
Pot rally has cops fuming
Boston Herald Sept 21
Marijuana legalization advocates openly smoked pot at the annual Boston Freedom Rally on Boston Common yesterday,…
OPINION: What is law enforcement smoking to oppose Question 2?
The Standard Time, New Bedford, SouthCoastToday.com, MA – Sept 20
By Jack Spillane
All the suits who make a living — monetarily, politically and otherwise — off the criminal marijuana laws were there the other day. …
DAs want voters to just say no to Question 2
The Herald News, Fall River – Sept 19, 2008
By Staff reports A group of local officials think you must be high if the concept of decriminalizing marijuana is a good idea. Come Nov. …
Cops, DA line up against pot initiative
Attleboro Sun Chronicle Sept. 19
NEW BEDFORD – Bristol County police, prosecutors and sheriffs urged the public to reject Question 2 on the Nov. 4 state election ballot, saying the initiative to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana would send the wrong message to …
Police, DAs want voters to block lower penalties for marijuana …
The Taunton Gazette – Sept. 19
Come Nov. 4, voters across the commonwealth will be asked to weigh in on a ballot question that would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana a civil offense punishable by a $100 fine, rather than a criminal offense. . . .
Area law enforcement say ‘no’ to marijuana decriminalization
The Standard Time, New Bedford, SouthCoastToday.com, MA – Sept 18
One ounce of marijuana has a street value of $600 and equates to approximately 60 individual sales, officials said. “Just think of the message this would …
Backers of marijuana ballot question charge foul on state’s DAs
The Standard Times, New Bedford SouthCoastToday.com, Sept. 18
By STEVE LeBLANC AP writer BOSTON — Backers of a pro-marijuana ballot initiative charged Wednesday that 11 district attorneys from Massachusetts violated …
Marijuana proponents take on state attorneys
Berkshire Eagle, Sept. 18
BOSTON — A group supporting more lenient marijuana laws is trying to turn another law involving campaign financing
Supporters of marijuana ballot question lodge complaint
Boston Globe, Sept. 18
By Steve LeBlanc AP / September 18, 2008 Backers of a promarijuana ballot initiative charged yesterday that 11 district attorneys violated campaign finance …
Sparks fly over proposal to legalize pot
Cape Cod Times, Sept. 18
Gerry Leone, Middlesex District Attorney, speaks at a news conference yesterday in Boston. Community leaders, Massachusetts District Attorneys, sheriffs, …
Pot foes in a huff over Question 2
Boston Herald – Sept. 18
By Mike Underwood An army of young drug addicts and dealers could flood the streets if voters don’t snub out a proposal to decriminalize possession of small …
Sutter, other DAs accused of campaign finance violations
The Herald News, Fall River – Sept. 18
By Will Richmond Backers of a pro-marijuana ballot initiative charged Wednesday that 11 district attorneys from Massachusetts violated campaign finance laws …
Marijuana bill brings out strong emotions
Metro Boston, MA –
After supporters of a plan to decriminalize marijuana cried foul over their opponents’ fundraising tactics yesterday, a powerful group of law enforcement …