Initiative 502

Definition

Initiative 502 was a voter-approved measure in Washington State that legalized the recreational use of marijuana for adults aged 21 and over. Passed in November 2012, it marked a significant shift in drug policy, allowing individuals to possess and purchase cannabis from licensed retailers, while also establishing a regulated system for production and sales. This initiative highlighted changing public attitudes towards marijuana use and set the stage for legislative changes regarding drug laws.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Initiative 502 passed with approximately 55% of the vote, showcasing strong public support for marijuana legalization in Washington State.
2. The initiative allowed adults to possess up to one ounce of marijuana for personal use and established a framework for licensing producers and retailers.
3. Revenue generated from marijuana sales is taxed at a rate of 37%, with funds allocated to various public services such as education, health care, and substance abuse prevention.
4. Following the implementation of Initiative 502, Washington became one of the first states in the U.S. to fully legalize recreational marijuana, influencing similar measures in other states.
5. The initiative also included provisions for DUI enforcement related to marijuana use, establishing a legal limit for THC levels in drivers.

Review Questions

• How did Initiative 502 change the legal landscape surrounding marijuana use in Washington State?
  • Initiative 502 fundamentally changed the legal landscape by allowing adults aged 21 and over to legally possess and consume marijuana. It established a regulated system for the production and sale of cannabis, thereby transitioning marijuana from illegal status to a legally controlled substance. This shift not only affected individual behavior but also had broader implications for law enforcement and public health policies in Washington State.
• Evaluate the impact of Initiative 502 on state revenue generation and public services in Washington.
  • The passage of Initiative 502 significantly impacted state revenue through taxation on marijuana sales. With a tax rate of 37%, the initiative generated substantial funds that were earmarked for essential public services such as education and health care. This influx of revenue not only supported existing programs but also opened up new opportunities for initiatives focused on substance abuse prevention and education about responsible cannabis use.
• Assess the long-term implications of Initiative 502 on drug policy reform across the United States.
  • The long-term implications of Initiative 502 extend beyond Washington State, as it served as a model for other states considering similar reforms in drug policy. By demonstrating that a regulated system could effectively manage the legal sale of marijuana while generating significant tax revenue, it encouraged other states to explore legalization options. This trend has contributed to a broader national conversation about drug policy reform, challenging traditional views on cannabis use and prompting shifts in legislation across multiple states.

Related terms

Marijuana Legalization: The process of making the possession, use, and sale of marijuana legal under state law, often accompanied by regulations to control its distribution.

Regulation: The set of rules established by the government to oversee the production, distribution, and sale of legal substances, including marijuana under Initiative 502.

Taxation: The process of levying taxes on the sale of marijuana, which was a key component of Initiative 502 aimed at generating revenue for the state.