(Toledo, OH) The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees recently voted to oppose State Issue 1, a Constitutional amendment to reduce penalties for crimes of obtaining, possessing, and using illegal drugs that will appear on the November 6th ballot.

 

The Board expressed concern about out-of-state interests attempting to change Ohio's Constitution. The Constitution is the foundation of Ohio's governing system. Out-of-state activists should not be able to dictate the issues that are important to Ohio's success.

 

Concern was also noted that reducing the penalties on drug possession may give the perception that the use of drugs is permissible. The Chamber hears regularly from employers that a significant barrier to hiring is finding individuals who can pass a drug test. Making it easier to obtain, and reducing the penalties, will not make this problem easier. Safety in the workplace is not something employers should or will compromise on.

 

For these reasons, the Chamber encourages a NO vote on State Issue 1.