Andrews supports ‘common sense’ marijuana reform

Amara Andrews supports the legalization of marijuana; Tiffany O’Donnell does not. Both candidates addressed this question at The Gazette Mayoral Forum in September and I spoke with the candidates individually. O’Donnell mentioned a family member struggling with addiction to marijuana; Amara Andrews, however, said she is for “common sense” marijuana reform.

Studies show Blacks and whites use marijuana at similar rates, yet according to an ACLU report utilizing police data, a Black person is 7.3 times more likely to be arrested for possession in Iowa. That is twice the national average. In Linn County, a Black person is 10 times more likely. Why the difference? Implicit bias, racial profiling, and poverty are contributing factors. Addiction is a severe issue but imagine how lower arrest rates could support more resources for prevention and treatment programs.

With marijuana fully legalized in Illinois and 17 other states, and medical marijuana legalized in several neighboring states, I feel electing O’Donnell would be a step backward. Even Mayor Hart spoke about his son’s arrest and deferred judgment. That is an expensive proposition and not everyone could afford what he did for his son. I am voting for Amara Andrews for many reasons, and this is one of the major ones. I recommend voting early or getting out to vote for Amara on Nov. 30.

Jorel Robinson

Cedar Rapids