Fresno leaders speak out against legalized marijuana proposition

FRESNO, Calif. -- One of the propositions on the November ballot would legalize recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 and older. Making marijuana legal with regulations and taxes is the goal behind Proposition 64.

"It essentially decriminalizes personal use of marijuana and personal cultivation behind closed doors, in the privacy of your own home under lock and key away from children," Proposition 64 spokesperson Jason Kinney said.

The controversial 62-page initiative would allow those age 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana and grow up to 6 plants.

Many law enforcement leaders across the state are opposed to the measure, including Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer.

"Once we cross the path of legalization, it's going to be very, very hard to go back," assembly member Jim Patterson said. "So, I am urging caution and frankly, I'm going to be a 'no' vote."

Those backing the proposition say the billion dollars in projected tax revenue would provide big money to improve communities across the Golden State.

"We're going to take that revenue and devote it to critical projects," Patterson said. "Youth programs, job training programs, communities that have been disproportionately harmed by the failed war on marijuana, law enforcement grants."

It's estimated between $11 million to $18 million has already been spent to legalize pot. Outspending the 'no' campaign by about 70 to 1.