TOWN HALL LA Presents a Comprehensive Discussion on Legalizing Marijuana

"Marijuana: the Wonder Drug for Economic Recovery?" is the subject of a panel discussion hosted by TOWN HALL Los Angeles, on Tuesday, November 17, 2009, at the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy in downtown Los Angeles.

The October 20th Justice Department memorandum prohibiting prosecution of law-abiding medical marijuana users and dispensary venders, has rendered the city's moratorium unlawful, creating the ensuing reaction to pass a strict LA City Council ordinance. A medical marijuana poll conducted by The Marijuana Policy Project in Washington, DC through the independent Mason-Dixon Polling & Research, and released on October 22, 2009, revealed that more than three-quarters of LA County voters are in favor of dispensary regulation over prosecution. The poll also indicates 74% support California's medical marijuana law, and 54% are in favor of marijuana being legalized, regulated and taxed.

The panel of experts will address the pros and cons of legalization, including its impact on state revenue finances, with an emphasis on its application in the area of medical treatment. Panelists include: Paul Chabot, EdD, MPA, founder, Coalition for a Drug Free California; Judge James P. Gray, Former Judge, Orange County Superior Court and Author; Ethan Nadelmann, Executive Director, Drug Policy Alliance; Rosalie Pacula, PhD, Co-Director, Drug Policy Research Center, Rand Corporation. The panel moderator is David Holtzman, President, League of Women Voters Los Angeles.

Historically, TOWN HALL has hosted many discussions on issues before voters. In 2009, TOWN HALL hosted a Prop 8 debate between Gloria Allred and Andy Pugno; and a pre-election debate on Measure B.

One of the Top 10 Leadership Forums in the nation, TOWN HALL Los Angeles has been a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization since 1937, supported by Angelenos, foundations and corporations who believe in open public discussion. We advocate for no side, represent no particular ideology and stand solidly in support of free speech, civility and a belief that knowledge is a priceless commodity. To learn more visit www.townhall-la.org.

All accredited members of the media are invited to cover this event.

**Please credit TOWN HALL Los Angeles in your coverage.

When:     Tuesday, November 17, 2009
          8:00 AM Breakfast Panel with Q&A

Where:    National Center for the Preservation of Democracy
          111 North Central Avenue
          Los Angeles CA  90012

Tickets $20, call 213.628.8141 or http://www.townhall-la.org/programs/register/1337