STATE SETS TV FORUMS ON MARIJUANA QUESTION

The secretary of state's office will conduct two televised forums next week
on the controversial ballot question to legalize possession of 3 ounces or
less of marijuana.

Secretary of State Dean Heller said Thursday that his office will conduct a
live television forum on Las Vegas One from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday. He
also will host a similar forum Monday on Reno television.

People can call 735-3291 in Las Vegas with questions for people representing
both pro and con positions on the marijuana question. They also can e-mail
questions in advance to the secretary of state at
nvelect@govmail.state.nv.us or fax questions to 775-684-5718. Questions must
be received before noon Monday for the Las Vegas broadcast.

Heller said the forums will help him create the language that will be used
on the November ballot question on marijuana.

"Although these public forums are not required by Nevada law, as the state's
chief elections officer, I strongly believe they are an essential element in
the process of shaping language describing a ballot question, " he said.

The Citizens for Responsible Law Enforcement circulated petitions to change
the state's marijuana laws.

With voter approval this November and in 2004, possession of 3 ounces or
less of marijuana by someone 21 or older "is not a cause for arrest, civil
or criminal penalty, or seizure of forfeiture of assets."

Use of marijuana by minors or while driving will remain against the law.
People also may not smoke marijuana in public places.