Lockhart Residents Protest City’s Decision to Ignore Marijuana Decriminalization Vote
A protest is planned ahead of Thursday night’s Lockhart City Council meeting, where residents will voice their frustration over the city’s decision to disregard the majority vote on marijuana decriminalization. The Lockhart Freedom Act, which was passed by 68% of voters in November, allows for the possession of up to four ounces of marijuana.
Despite the overwhelming support, the city council has chosen to ignore the vote, citing state law that prohibits cities from adopting policies that do not fully enforce both state and federal drug laws. The decision has sparked outrage among residents, who argue that the city is going against the will of the people.
“I think it’s just common sense that we should be decriminalizing marijuana,” said Sam Benavides, managing editor at the Caldwell/Hays Examiner. “There’s a ripple effect of impacts that having a charge on your record can lead to, and it’s just not fair.”
The city council is facing pressure from residents and local businesses to reconsider their decision. The Caldwell/Hays Examiner is organizing a protest ahead of the council meeting, with plans to hand out free pizzas to attendees. The pies will be cut into 68% slices to remind council members of the popularity of the ballot initiative.
The city’s decision to ignore the vote has also drawn attention from Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has filed lawsuits against other cities that have passed similar measures. However, a Travis County judge has dismissed those suits, ruling that the cities have the right to make their own decisions on marijuana decriminalization.
The Lockhart City Council is set to address the controversy at 7:30 p.m. at the Eugene Clark Library. Residents are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions on the matter.
