Strong opposition to SB519 which would legalize certain hallucinogenic substances
We strongly oppose to the outrageous and calamitous SB519.
SB519, if passed, would legalize the possession and social sharing of an array of hallucinogenic substances including ketamine (date rape drug), LSD, psilocybin (magic mushroom), DMT, ibogaine, and MDMA for persons 21 or older. These illegal drugs can be very pernicious for individuals – including possible cardiac issues, seizures, severe depression, amnesia, and acute anxiety.
The illegal drug – ketamine, is even an instrument used in the facilitation of sexual assault. When our society stresses much on the protection of females against sexual assault, this bill certainly goes the stunningly opposite direction putting females in vulnerable situations! The proponents of this bill should be reprobated!
According to California District Attorneys’ Association, there is evidence that the hallucinogenic effects of LSD can fuel murders and reportedly there have been at least 11 homicides involving LSD. Hallucinations can be dangerous to users and bystanders alike.
Moreover, we are currently in the throes of accidental deaths occasioned by social sharing of controlled substances, and to bless that “social sharing” in statute will give rise to more accidental overdose fatalities.
SB519 also has the retroactive clause that would unfairly clear the criminal records of the convicts in this regard. Because of the large number of retroactive criminal justice laws, many district attorneys’ offices struggle to muster the resources to re-litigate or verify relief in an ever-growing number of reanimated cases which previously were final judgments.
Legalizing these illegal drugs encourages drug dealing and drug consumption and in turn causes more crime especially robbery. It is inevitable that the drug consumption rate of younger generations will further increase due to this bill.
As former Governor Brown has maintained that California had not put enough resources and efforts on drug prevention and drug treatment. Instead of accentuating on these aspects, the proponents of the bill unscrupulously and absurdly further legalize various illegal hallucinogenic substances to the detriment of our state! California legislators do need to reject SB519!