GO GREEN! Legalize in South Carolina

123

Let’s get to 200 signatures!
Petitions with 1,000+ supporters are 5x more likely to win!

The Issue

Why South Carolina Must Reconsider Full Legalization

​I am launching this petition to shed light on the reality of cannabis legalization—a reality that looks very different from how it is often portrayed in the media.

​Today, thousands of South Carolinians facing chronic and severe health issues would choose cannabis as a safe, natural alternative over addictive pills or costly pharmaceuticals. The facts are clear: regulated cannabis helps people medically, cuts into illicit market crime, and creates a massive new revenue stream that could directly benefit our local communities.

​With neighboring states moving forward, South Carolina cannot afford to be left behind. It is time to modernize our laws, keep our tax dollars at home, and fully legalize medical and recreational cannabis for adult use.

​The Cost of Waiting: The Georgia Border Effect

​Our state line is a direct economic drain. Georgia recently passed comprehensive legislation modernizing its medical cannabis program, introducing raw flower vaporization and removing rigid limits on access for patients. Because South Carolina remains in full prohibition, millions of potential tax dollars, business investments, and tourism revenues are going to sit just across our border.

​Instead of watching South Carolinians travel across state lines to spend money that funds Georgia's roads, schools, and infrastructure, we need to fully legalize, regulate, and keep that economic windfall right here in our own state.

​Economic Windfall and Community Investment

​State and local governments consistently struggle with rising costs and tight budgets. Many are looking for creative ways to fund essential public projects.

​New Tax Revenues: Evidence from states like Colorado proves that a regulated market generates millions in new annual tax revenue.

​Rebuilding Infrastructure: These funds can be directly earmarked to pay for everything from road repairs to upgrading local public parks.

​A Smarter Approach to Public Safety and Law Enforcement

​By legalizing and regulating cannabis for adult use (ages 21 and over), we can create a safer environment for everyone.

​Refocusing Police Resources: Decriminalization and legalization free up police officers, prosecutors, and judges to focus on violent crimes rather than minor possession charges, alleviating pressure on our crowded justice system.

​Cutting Off Organized Crime: A legal market cuts off a primary revenue stream for the illegal drug trade, directly decreasing street-level crime and violence.

​Strict Quality Controls: When people buy off the street, there is no way to know what dangerous synthetic substances or toxic ingredients might be mixed in. A legal, licensed dispensary system ensures all products are strictly tested, packaged safely, and regulated.

​True Medical Freedom

​The plant has been proven as an effective, life-changing treatment for a wide range of conditions, including epilepsy, Crohn’s disease, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, and multiple sclerosis. South Carolinians deserve the right to access this medicine under the care of their doctors without fear of a criminal record.

​It is Time for Change

​We need to ask ourselves: are we ready to make a change that brings positivity, economic growth, and safety to our environment?

​A healthier, happier population means longer lives and a safer world for the generations coming up behind us. Cannabis should be a strictly controlled, licensed substance for adults 21+ on private property, at licensed establishments, and through legitimate small businesses.

​If you support safe access, economic growth, and keeping South Carolina money in South Carolina, please sign and share this petition today!

If you support for you or a loved one please sign the petition!!!!!

The Decision Makers

Billy Garrett
South Carolina State Senate - District 10
Timothy Scott
U.S. Senate - South Carolina

Petition Updates