Democratic gubernatorial candidate Chris Jones said Tuesday that he supports the Responsible Growth Arkansas committee’s proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize recreational marijuana.

Jones, of Little Rock, said ballot initiatives elevate the voices of Arkansans, who have made very important decisions when given the opportunity to do so. This recreational marijuana ballot initiative is no different, he said, adding that it is a chance for Arkansas to lead the South.

“I support the thoughtful decriminalization and legalization of marijuana, and I support the Arkansas Marijuana Legalization Initiative on the ballot this November 8, ” Jones said in a written statement.

According to the secretary of state’s office, the Responsible Growth Arkansas committee turned in the required number of valid signatures of registered voters to qualify its proposed constitutional amendment one step closer to appearing on the general election ballot.

The state Board of Election Commissioners still must approve the proposed constitutional amendment’s proposed popular name and ballot title before it qualifies for the ballot. The board is scheduled to consider taking action on the proposal Wednesday afternoon.

The proposal would allow issuance of adult-use cannabis cultivation and dispensary licenses to businesses that already hold licenses under the state’s medical marijuana program, followed by an additional 40 licenses chosen by a lottery.