The Advocate’s take on a few measures

It’s time for a revolution here in good ol’ Orygun. The majority of the Advocate editorial board believes voters in the Nov. 4 election should approve ballot measures 89 (equal rights for women initiative), 90 (open primaries) and 91 (legalization of marijuana).

We believe these measures reinforce the freedoms we should have, and already have, as citizens in the state of Oregon.

Measure 89 does not add any new elements to women’s rights stated in the constitution, nor does it take away anything.  It simply applies new language to Oregon’s constitution that prohibits any corporation or political subdivision from discriminating against women. We certainly believe that women should be able to hold the same jobs and get paid the same amount as men. Our only additional proposal would be to extend those freedoms to other sexual orientation groups, a movement that also is progressing.

We believe that Measure 90 should pass because we want to have the freedom to vote outside the box. Open primaries would allow us to vote for whomever we want, even if they aren’t registered in our own party. This makes voting life easier, especially for Independent voters who do not affiliate with either Democrats or Republicans. Some of us at the Advocate urge a “no” vote on 90, however, because we believe both major parties should always be represented in the general (November) election.

Most of us at the Advocate agree that recreational marijuana should be legalized. Yes, this would allow adults to purchase marijuana and smoke for good times. However, there’s more to legalization than just getting high and sedating pain. Marijuana would be taxed to provide more state revenue for schools and police forces. Those who dig the joint will smoke regardless if there’s a rule against it. If smoking marijuana is inevitable, we should try to use it for our benefit. Passing 91 will also help depopulate prisons, which are flooded with people who have bought and sold marijuana. The decriminalization of marijuana will allow more and better persecution of more serious crimes, such as sex trafficking and hard drugs.

At least one editor does not approve of Measure 91, believing that marijuana is unhealthy and unnecessary to legalize since medical marijuana is an option for those who really need it. Furthermore, it would be unfair to tax people on something that they need for their health and well being. Whether or not marijuana is legal, there would still be the issue of underage users. Is possibly jeopardizing the health of young people worth it?

Advocate Staff