The NORML KC chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) has succeeded in gathering more than the required number of registered voter signatures to submit a Kansas City cannabis decriminalization initiative for ballot consideration.
Standing in front of the City Hall on Monday, November 14, 2016, Jamie Kacz, Executive Director of the chapter proclaimed, “we are getting ready to hand in over 4,200 signatures to decriminalize cannabis in Kansas City.”
The required threshold to reach the ballot was 1,708 signatures, but volunteers exceeded that number by more than 2,500.
“I’d like to thank all our volunteers whether you handed in one signature or 200 signatures, we are here because of you. Thank you so much for your dedication and support,” offered Kacz to her signature gathering team via video.
Once the signatures pass validation, the initiative will appear on the Kansas City ballot in April 2017.
NORML KC chapter members and volunteers worked more than 20 polling stations on the national election day November 8, 2016 collecting signatures. The long lines on election day presented a unique opportunity for team members to explain the benefits and details of their decriminalization initiative.
The entire NORML KC chapter and cannabis activists across the state hope the number of voters who signed the petition will send a strong message that Kansas City residents along with other Show-Me state citizens are ready to end the War on Drugs in Missouri.