Sheriff Kempker presented information regarding the November 6 ballot proposal to legalize the sale and use of Recreational Marijuana in the state of Michigan.  He provided an extensive handout that he urged all attendees to read and to pass on to other Michigan residents.  The Ottawa County Sheriff and his department have taken the position that the legalization of Recreational Marijuana in the state will have a negative impact on the children, communities, law enforcement efforts, and citizens of Michigan.  If passed, the initiative will take effect January 2019.  Several high points included:

1.  The potency of the marijuana will not be regulated.  No legal limit for being under the influence is being established by the law.

2.  Transfer of 2.5 ounces of marijuana to another person will be allowed.

3.  Current marijuana is 36 times more potent than the marijuana used in the 70s and 80s. 

4.  Michigan would have the highest per-person limit in the country (10 ounces or the equivalent of 600-800 marijuana cigarettes).

5.  Marijuana is infused in gummy bear candies.  One bear is equivalent to 10 marijuana cigarettes. It is also available in many other edible forms and beverages.

6.  Traffic crashes and fatalities have increased over 65% in states where Recreational Marijuana is now legal. Car insurance rates will increase in Michigan.

7.  Local municipalities will be able to prohibit dispensaries within their boundaries..