Issue 1’s benefits, risks debated

Will Issue 1 free drug addicts from prison and free up $100 million a year for more drug treatment in the face of Ohio's opioid crisis? Or is that a hopeless wish being used to sell a constitutional amendment that would tie the hands of judges running drug courts and allow people possessing dangerous drugs to remain on the street?

Supporters and opponents of Issue 1 tried to get beyond the dense ballot language and explain what it means to voters Wednesday during a forum sponsored by the Columbus Metropolitan Club.

"This is probably one of the most important decisions you'll make on Election Day, or earlier if you're an early voter," said Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor of the Ohio Supreme Court, a prominent opponent of the measure, speaking to the audience at the Boathouse at Confluence Park. "Issue 1 involves the safety of our state, of our communities."

Issue 1 would reduce lowlevel felony possession or use of drugs to a misdemeanor offense, carrying probation but no jail or prison time. It also would prohibit those on probation from being sent to prison for initial, nonviolent violations. And it would allow felons imprisoned for crimes other than murder, rape and child molestation to reduce their sentences by up to 25 percent by participating in rehabilitation and education programs.

O'Connor said that one of many problems with Issue 1 is that it would amend the state Constitution, where it would be "written in stone,"