Too many questions on ballot measure 2

To the editor:

There are just too many unanswered questions that Alaskans need to explore prior to making this choice. There are questions that need to be asked and answered about what the initiative really says, and so far that hasn’t been done.

Do we know how much marijuana someone can process and have on premises where the plants are grown? The initiative as written, does not seem to have any limits.

Can anyone perform his or her own dangerous butane hash oil extractions? Under this ballot measure, it doesn’t seem as if any state or local government can restrict these actions.

Can people barter for marijuana as long as it does not involve money? How would bartering affect the abilities of communities to exercise a local option preventing the sale of marijuana (but not possession by adults or gifting of marijuana which it seems can’t be prohibited under this initiative)?

What happens if you live in an area that is not covered by the “local government” definition? There does not appear to be any way to restrict retail sales or growing operations in these areas. Are we not already struggling with enough issues in these communities and throughout Alaska that we shouldn’t be ready to pile yet another problem on top?

Alaskans and Alaska news sources need to explore the gaps in the ballot initiative. I have seen no language about setting standards for what constitutes driving under the influence of marijuana, or what rights apartment dwellers should have to prevent unwanted exposure to second hand marijuana smoke. This initiative raises far too many questions and Alaskans deserve answers. This is not a decision were Alaskans should roll the dice and hope for the best. Until we have answered these questions with facts instead of platitudes, I am voting “no” on Ballot Measure 2 and urge my fellow Alaskans to do the same.

Keith Mallard

Fairbanks