Sensible Kent seeks drug reform for minor cannabis offenses

Following the tragedy of May 4th 1970 at Kent State, President Nixon enacted a series of drug policies that targeted political activist and people of color. Nixon later passed the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 labeling cannabis/marijuana in the same category as heroin. The law stands today. In Ohio, minor marijuana possession charges don’t required jail time but penalties can include driver’s license suspension, inability to join the armed services, and loss of financial aid, if a student. Sensible Kent looks to enact an ordinance, Issue 17, that that removes court fees, cost, and jail and a charge a person’s record for less than 200 grams marijuana. This includes possession, distribution(sharing), and sale. Voters will take to the polls during the November 8th mid-term election to decide if the issue will pass.