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LA voters to decide on new pot tax in November
Marijuana is weighed on a scale at a dispensary in Los Angeles, California on February 8, 2018.
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LA voters to decide on new pot tax in November
The Los Angeles city council voted Tuesday to put a measure on the November ballot asking voters if they want to add another local tax on legal pot. The measure needs support from two-thirds of voters to pass.
The city estimates the tax would raise $30 million each year to fund things like parks and libraries near pot businesses, as well as cannabis youth prevention programs. Proponents say it'll help communities targeted in the War on Drugs. But legal pot shop owners have said existing taxes are already making it difficult for them to compete with the city's many unlicensed sellers.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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