CA Drug Bill Needs Support

This just in from the Drug Policy Foundation. Support needed for SB649 which will reduce penalties for simple drug possession. The notice reads, in part,

"Any day now, the State Assembly will vote on a bill that would reduce harsh penalties for simple drug possession in California.

Take action and tell your legislator to end cruel sentences for Californians who are convicted of drug possession!

https://secure2.convio.net/dpa/site/Advocacy

This legislation would reduce overcrowding in prisons by allowing prosecutors to charge drug possession as a misdemeanor, rather than an automatic felony."

The link takes you to one of those boilerplate letters that's e-mailed to your state assembly guy or gal. A phone call would probably be more effective. If you send the e-mail I'd suggest gutting their prewritten letter and writing a short one of your own. Even something as simple as "Vote YES on SB649 to reduce harsh sentences for simple drug possession" would be better than the lengthy letter they provide.

Be interesting to see how the vote goes on this. Also be interesting to see what actual effect it has on costs and space in jails and prisons.

Addendum: I received a confirmation of my e-mail from Wes Chesbro's office. It said e-mail communications need to be sent through the form on their web site. Use the Contact Us link.