Another hemp initiative underway in Alaska

JUNEAU (AP) -- A new initiative aimed at legalizing marijuana use is underway in Alaska.

Sponsors Friday gathered at the state Division of Elections to turn in the 100 signatures necessary to launch a petition campaign. If enough signatures are gathered, then the issue will appear on next year's general election ballot.

A similar initiative was rejected in November.

Al Anders of Free Hemp in Alaska said this proposal is simpler. It doesn't include an amnesty provision or a panel about restitution that Anders feels led to voter rejection last year.

If their initial filing passes the lieutenant governor's review, then sponsors will have to gather nearly 29,000 signatures to get the issue on next year's general election ballot.