Dennis Tuuri

Full PEAPAC Analysis

PEAPAC Commentary: Measure 80 legalizes marijuana. Consider this sobering fact–according to Oregon’s Sheriffs, over half of those arrested for violent crimes in Oregon test positive for marijuana at the time of arrest. When those tasked with keeping the public safe warn us about the dangers of this Measure, we should pay attention. There are legitimate medical uses of marijuana. But as PEAPAC predicted, the way it was implemented here in Oregon has been a disaster. Recreational marijuana use has sky-rocketed, crime associated with marijuana has increased, and Oregon is now looked to by national criminal drug dealers as a supplier of marijuana. We sympathize with those who don’t want to see teens and young adults put into prisons for getting high. But the answer lies in alternatives to prisons, not sending them a message that this intoxicant is okay. Doubling down on medical marijuana by legalizing dope will result in yet more crime, loss of safety in the workplace and on the roads, and the increasing presence of violent drug cartels harvesting Oregon’s crops for illegal sales around the region.

The purpose of the civil government is first and foremost public safety. We read in 1 Timothy 2 “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” 1 Peter 2:14 says rulers are “sent by Him [God] for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.” And in Jeremiah 29:7 “ And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.” The opposite would be the effect of M easure 80. We strongly urge your No vote on Measure 80