Dallas City Council Advances Marijuana Decriminalization Measure for November Ballot
08/23/2024
In a significant step toward cannabis reform, the Dallas City Council voted last week to place a marijuana decriminalization measure on the ballot for the November 2024 general election. Dubbed the Dallas Freedom Act, this measure aims to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults, marking the latest in a series of local efforts across Texas to challenge the state's strict cannabis laws.
The campaign behind the measure, led by the nonprofit social justice advocacy group Ground Game Texas, submitted nearly 50,000 signatures from Dallas residents in June, demonstrating strong community support for ending the criminalization of marijuana. If passed, the Dallas Freedom Act would decriminalize the possession of less than four ounces of cannabis for adults aged 21 and older. Additionally, the measure mandates that the city’s police chief and city manager provide quarterly reports to the city council detailing any arrests or citations related to marijuana possession, ensuring transparency in the enforcement of this new policy.
Natalie Marquez, Ground Game Texas' field director, emphasized that the initiative represents more than just a shift in drug policy. “The Dallas Freedom Act is about more than just marijuana — it’s a step toward broader social justice, smarter use of public resources, and protecting civil liberties in Dallas,” Marquez said. She highlighted the personal impact of these laws on families and veterans, noting the campaign's dedication to preventing future injustices.
Support for the measure was voiced by several Dallas city leaders, including Council Members Adam Bazaldua, Chad West, Zarin Gracey, and Omar Narvaez. Gracey described the proposal as a "necessary change" for the city. The council voted 15-4 in favor of placing the measure on the ballot, signaling broad support among city officials.
Dallas joins other Texas cities, such as Austin and Denton, in pushing for cannabis policy reform at the local level. However, these efforts have faced opposition from state leaders, including Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argue that local governments lack the authority to override state law. Despite this, the movement for change continues, with Ground Game Texas advocating for the alignment of local policies with the will of the people.
Reference
The campaign behind the measure, led by the nonprofit social justice advocacy group Ground Game Texas, submitted nearly 50,000 signatures from Dallas residents in June, demonstrating strong community support for ending the criminalization of marijuana. If passed, the Dallas Freedom Act would decriminalize the possession of less than four ounces of cannabis for adults aged 21 and older. Additionally, the measure mandates that the city’s police chief and city manager provide quarterly reports to the city council detailing any arrests or citations related to marijuana possession, ensuring transparency in the enforcement of this new policy.
Natalie Marquez, Ground Game Texas' field director, emphasized that the initiative represents more than just a shift in drug policy. “The Dallas Freedom Act is about more than just marijuana — it’s a step toward broader social justice, smarter use of public resources, and protecting civil liberties in Dallas,” Marquez said. She highlighted the personal impact of these laws on families and veterans, noting the campaign's dedication to preventing future injustices.
Support for the measure was voiced by several Dallas city leaders, including Council Members Adam Bazaldua, Chad West, Zarin Gracey, and Omar Narvaez. Gracey described the proposal as a "necessary change" for the city. The council voted 15-4 in favor of placing the measure on the ballot, signaling broad support among city officials.
Dallas joins other Texas cities, such as Austin and Denton, in pushing for cannabis policy reform at the local level. However, these efforts have faced opposition from state leaders, including Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argue that local governments lack the authority to override state law. Despite this, the movement for change continues, with Ground Game Texas advocating for the alignment of local policies with the will of the people.
Reference
