Initiative 692 update
by Tim Killian, Campaign Coordinator
The campaign to legalize the medicinal use of marijuana is well under way here in Washington State. Initiative 692, the Washington State Medical Use of Marijuana Act, is the product of many hours of discussion, negotiation, and input from a wide variety of sources including patients, doctors, law enforcement agencies, politicians, activists, and citizens from across the State. It is based on Senate Bill 6271 sponsored by Senator Jeanne Kohl (D-36). Thanks go to those who were involved in the process, most notably to Robert Lunday, who worked hard to bring together many of the different drafts and ideas from the activist community. I-692 is truly one of the premier medical marijuana initiatives in the country.
We have entered the signature gathering stage, and are working towards collecting 179,248 valid signatures from Washington State voters prior to the deadline of July 2, 1998. We are confident that this deadline will be met, and look forward to working with many volunteers in addition to paid signature gatherers to reach the requirement. Contact us directly if you would like petitions for gathering signatures.
Our funding has again been seeded by the same individuals who funded initiative 685 last year. They told us that if 685 proved to be too much too soon, that they would be back to support us in the narrower issue of medicinal marijuana. Their commitment to this issue is strong, and those of us who support it owe them much thanks. However, we do need to raise local funds as well, and appreciate any and all contributions that can be given. Again, contact us directly if you would like to contribute.
At this point of the campaign, we are busy preparing behind the scenes for the public campaign which will be waged following validation of our signatures. We are seeking endorsements from both public officials and organizations. We are already finding stronger community reception this year than was found for last year's initiative 685. The much narrower issue is easier for many to grasp. We consider this our strongest asset going into this election. We hope to be able to put forward a broad and varied list of supporters prior to the election. To win, we will need support that crosses all boundaries of political thought. This will include Republican and Democratic support, and we are seeking both. If you have suggestions of public figures who you know support medical marijuana, email me at cdpr@eventure.com so that we can get an information packet sent to them.
What can you do to help? Gathering signatures is paramount now. To become a paid gatherer, you need to sign up with Progressive Campaigns; call them directly at (206) 633-2161. In addition, I know many of you are involved in your communities and in various levels of political activity: take any and all opportunities to speak with your friends, family and other contacts you make in support of Initiative 692.
Finally, thanks to all of you who have expressed support for the efforts of Washington Citizens for Medical Rights and the work of Dr. Rob Killian. It is not easy to balance the wants and desires of all who are interested in this issue. Politics is aptly named, and at times it can be discouraging. But, when I remember the passion and endurance of the late Ralph Seeley, and his ability to remain focused, I am encouraged again. We will continue to need your support as we all work to make Ralph's dream a reality in November.
Tim Killian is campaign coordinator for Washington Citizens for Medical Rights and Initiative 692. WCMR can be reached via the postal service at PO Box 2346, Seattle, WA 98111, by voicemail at (206) 781-7716 or through email at cdpr@eventure.com.