Former Facebook Figure Donates $500,000 for the Legalisation of Cannabis in California

When influential figures make a commitment to the world of marijuana, those still resisting change begin to see the sector in a different light. When the one doing so is Sean Parker, the influential American businessman, billionaire, former president of Facebook and co-founder of Napster, Plaxo and Causes (and a Spotify shareholder), the effect is even greater.

Parker just donated $500,000 (about 462,000 euros) to support a bill designed to legalise recreational marijuana in California, and this is not the first time that he has given money to important causes. As he explained, he has been following the issue with great interest for some time, and finds it "very encouraging" to see a "vibrant community of activists" who have dedicated their lives to this question.

He says that these are people rallying around a reform measure that is aimed at responsible adults and that seeks to protect children, comply with the law, and establish a strong regulatory framework. He also believes that legalisation will yield economic benefits for all Californians.

Under this initiative people over 21 would be able to possess, use and purchase up to an ounce (about 28 grams) of grass. A sales tax of 15% would be levied on it, in addition to state taxes on crops. Analysts say this could generate more than a billion dollars in revenues. For now the campaign Parker supports has already raised 1.25 million dollars (about 1.15 million euros). Now they need to gather 365,880 signatures in order for the idea to be officially debated.