New poll shows 71% in favor of Massachusetts decriminalization initiative!

According to a new statewide poll just released by Boston's Suffolk University and WHDH Ch. 7, an overwhelming majority of Bay Staters support the passage of Question 2 — the marijuana decriminalization initiative sponsored by MPP’s allies the Committee for Sensible Marijuana Policy (CSMP) — this November 4! Drawing on a 400-person sample from across the commonwealth, a full 71% of respondents indicated that they would vote to replace criminal penalties for the possession of an ounce or less of marijuana with a simple fine. This whopping level of support eclipses all numbers we’ve seen previously, which have generally been around 60% in favor, and so should be taken with a grain of salt. Nevertheless, this clearly points to Bay Staters' support for the crucial reform proposed by Question 2 and bodes well for the initiative’s chances at the polls this November!

If Massachusetts voters pass Question 2, it will eliminate the possibility of jail for the possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. And by treating such minor offenses as civil, rather than criminal, infractions, Question 2 will also get rid of the disastrous system of collateral sanctions — like the suspension of driver's licenses, a lifetime ban on adoption, and the creation of a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) report, a black mark on an individual’s record that jeopardizes the possibility of obtaining jobs, housing, and school loans — that cripple otherwise law-abiding citizens' abilities to lead happy and productive lives.

But this landmark reform — which marks the first time in history that a binding marijuana decriminalization initiative will appear on any statewide ballot — did not materialize out of nowhere. In fact, through the efforts of numerous dedicated local activists, 30 non-binding public policy questions (PPQs) calling for civil penalties for marijuana possession have passed in districts across Massachusetts since 2000 — with an average of 62% of the vote in favor.

Question 2 simply marks the logical next step: a binding statewide vote on a policy that Bay Staters have supported by wide margins again and again. Would you please consider donating $10 or more to CSMP today to help them make the most of this groundswell of grassroots support for a sensible marijuana policy?

These successful PPQs were scattered across the commonwealth, and it's clear from the map below that the obvious and overwhelming support for reform isn't restricted to any one region. What's more, no PPQ arguing for such a sensible policy has ever failed at the polls in Massachusetts ... and some passed with 70% of the vote or more:

Clearly, this history of stated support bodes well for Question 2's chances this November, but CSMP will need your help to win. Would you please donate $10 today to help ensure that CSMP run the most robust campaign possible and make the most of this impressive history of local successes?

Thank you for supporting CSMP's efforts. With your continued help and support, the campaign will build on these local wins and institute a sensible marijuana policy for all Massachusetts residents this November 4!