We the citizens of Minnesota would like the right to vote on marijuana legalization by having it placed on the 2018 ballot. We believe that we can handle such a difficult decision by letting the people decide on what policy we want.

Marijuana prohibition has been a costly mistake. The states are starting to realize it and are changing their laws for the better. Minnesota can be one of those states, we want a chance to take marijuana off the black market and have it taxed and regulated. We could give the tax revenue to education, housing, and law enforcement. The tax revenue could total in the millions of dollars.

A more important reason people would like the chance to vote on marijuana legalization is the social effects prohibition has had on our society. Too many good people have had their lives ruined by marijuana, a drug more harmless then alcohol and tobacco. It has put non violent people in jail away from their families, kids grow up without parents. People get charges on their record, preventing them from getting jobs and housing.

On the other side, you might believe marijuana is a deadly, addictive, gateway drug that has no medical value. That it would be more available and get in to our children's hands. You also should have the right to vote and let your voice be known.

The people of Minnesota just want the right to vote, regardless of what side they favor. Please give us this opportunity and put marijuana legalization on the 2018 ballot.