Increasing taxes on marijuana to raise money for education may sound like a good idea at first glance. However, before voting yes on Proposition 119, it should be examined closely. The 2021 State Ballot Information Booklet (Blue Book) is a good place to start.

If passed, Proposition 119 would set up a new state agency independent of the State Board of Education or Department of Education. This new agency would set up learning and enrichment programs outside the regular school day. Funding would come from higher marijuana tax as well as shifting money from existing state funds.

The “Arguments Against Proposition 119” in the Blue Book says that “Proposition 119 allows public money to be directed to private out-of-school service providers instead of invested directly in public schools" (Page 10). If taxes are raised for education, it would be better to use the money for public schools under local control. Additional funding might allow schools to restart programs that have been cut and to provide added learning and enrichment programs.

A glossy political ad that came in my mail makes me wonder who is behind this measure. Could it be for-profit-schools in bigger cities? If you believe in supporting our local public schools, please join me in voting “no” on Proposition 119.

Mary Handrick

Durango