Dallas Leaders Push Forward Cannabis Decriminalization Efforts

The Dallas city council is considering a measure for the November ballot to decriminalize small amounts of cannabis. Councilmember Chad West announced the Dallas Freedom Act proposal for June 26, emphasizing that police should focus on serious crimes, not small cannabis possessions.

The Proposal and Its Impact

The Dallas Freedom Act, backed by Ground Game Texas, seeks to prevent police from ticketing or arresting individuals with less than four ounces of cannabis. The initiative received over 50,000 petition signatures, highlighting strong public support.

Legal and Political Challenges

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opposed similar decriminalization efforts in other Texas cities, suing Austin, Denton, Elgin, Killeen, and San Marcos. Paxton claims these actions violate state law, while Ground Game Texas argues that local voters should set enforcement priorities.

Councilmember Support and Racial Justice

Councilmembers Adam Bazaldua, Jaime Resendez, and Zarin Gracey support the decriminalization initiative, citing the need to address racial disparities in arrests. Bazaldua and Resendez stress the importance of focusing on more pressing public safety needs and reducing racially biased law enforcement outcomes.

Ground Game Texas, under new executive director Catina Voellinger, remains committed to supporting cannabis decriminalization across Texas. The organization continues to advocate for local initiatives, despite ongoing legal challenges.