NORML's Smoke the Vote

A Karl Rhoads (D - HI) LEGALIZE, TAX, AND REGULATE DECRIMINALIZE MEDICAL USE

Holds office State Senate District 13

Sponsored Legislation

SB 1010 - RELATING TO THE MARIJUANA EVALUATION TASK FORCE.

HB 2707 - Authorizes Nurses to Certify Medical Marijuana Patients

HB 321 - Establishes a Medical Marijuana Dispensary System

Comments

Sen. Karl Rhoads, the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said Hawaii residents are becoming more accepting of legalization now because it has happened elsewhere and “the world hasn’t come to an end.” There’s also recognition that the status quo isn’t working, he said, noting that juniors at a high school near his district tell him they can get pot whenever they want.

“It’s like Prohibition,” he said. “We’ve been trying to squish it out, squeeze it out, by making it illegal. And it’s just failed miserably.” (3/2/19)

Votes

2016: Authorizes a Study on the Potential Impact of Drug Legalization, HCR 127

YES

2016: Authorizes Nurses to Certify Medical Marijuana Patients, HB 2707

YES

2015: Establishes a Medical Marijuana Dispensary System, HB 321

YES

Vote Smart Key Votes

SB 1429: Authorizes and Restores Caregivers' Ability to Cultivate Cannabis for up to 5 Patients and Extends Temporary Dispensary Rules for 2 Years

YES

HB 1595: Establishes a State Pilot Program to Expunge Non-Conviction Arrest Records

YES