ACS Cincinnati: Popular Constitutionalism in Ohio: Ballot Issue One and Criminal Law Reform

Join the Cincinnati Lawyer Chapter and the University of Cincinnati College of Law Student Chapter of the American Constitution Society, as well as the University of Cincinnati College of Law Criminal Law Society, for a discussion of local Ballot Issue 1.

Ballot Issue 1 is a proposed state constitutional amendment that is sparking heated debate across Ohio. If passed by Ohio voters in November, the Ohio Neighborhood Safety, Drug Treatment, and Rehabilitation Amendment will:

• Reclassify non-violent, low-level drug possession offenses from felonies to misdemeanors;
• Eliminate imprisonment for technical probation violations;
• Provide up to 25% reduction in prison time for participation in rehabilitation programs;
• And invest money saved from reduced prison usage in expanded treatment programs. 

Advocates describe Issue 1 as necessary to reduce the state’s incarceration rates. Opponents raise concerns about separation of powers issues and about risks of increased crime.

Featuring:

Stephen JohnsonGrove, Attorney and Deputy Director for Policy, Ohio Justice & Policy Center

Janet Moore, Professor of Law, University of Cincinnati College of Law

ACS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational organization. It does not take positions on candidates and legislation, including ballot initiatives.