[420 Girl]

Washington State - Activists have filed a ballot initiative that would authorize marijuana possession in Washington state. Sponsors include two Seattle and the director of Seattle's annual Hempfest. Backers of the measure would have to collect more than 241,000 signatures to put the question before voters in November.

Douglas Hiatt, a lawyer who represents medical marijuana patients, told The Associated Press after filing the initiative Monday the proposal would remove all state penalties for pot possession by adults. Criminal penalties for juvenile possession and for providing the drug to juveniles would remain. Marijuana would still be illegal under federal law.

Mike McGinn, Seattle's new mayor, has said he thinks marijuana should be legalized. State attorney general Rob McKenna is against the idea.

Marijuana is a hot topic in Olympia.

Three state lawmakers who are supporting a bill that would decriminalize marijuana possession. Another Seattle lawmaker, Democratic Rep. Mary Lou Dickerson, has introduced a bill that would legalize marijuana in Washington state for people 21 and older.

On Tuesday travel writer and television host Rick Steves, an ardent supporter of marijuana legalization, will host a forum in Olympia.

Proponents say relaxing the state's marijuana laws will save money and make sense. Opponents say the push is wrongheaded and will encourage abuse of other drugs.


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