Why it matters: The city council in Denton, Texas, has voted against adopting an ordinance that had been passed by voters to decriminalize low-level marijuana offenses. This comes following a vote in November where over 70% of voters approved the measure.
What they are saying: Denton police officers claim that marijuana possession cases lead to searches that help combat illegal guns and gang activity. On the other hand, advocates for marijuana use argue that there are legitimate and therapeutic applications for both clinical conditions and stresses of modern life.
The big picture: The ordinance was placed on the November ballot after a vote by the Denton city council last summer. However, the implementation was challenging, and officials said they don’t have the authority to implement it due to state law and conflicts. Texas legislators have recently shown interest in changing the state’s marijuana laws.
What to watch: Advocates of marijuana use in Denton want more assurance that they won’t be prosecuted for drug possession. While Texas legislators try to change state marijuana laws, it remains to be seen what will happen to the proposed ordinance.
My take: It is disappointing to see Denton city council taking such a dramatic reversal of November’s vote. Decriminalizing low-level marijuana offenses is a small, but significant, step to reduce the number of convictions for drug possession. Hopefully, the Texas legislators will continue to explore changing statewide marijuana laws, and Denton will have another opportunity to vote for the ordinance in the future.
