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Posted: Sunday, May 25th, 2008 6:42 AM HST
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Hawaii County Council action ends marijuana eradication program
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HILO, Hawaii (AP) _ The Hawaii County Council has rejected a state and federally funded marijuana eradication program.
The annual ``Green Harvest'' program began 30 years ago on the Big Island.
Many residents have opposed the program, saying the low-flying helicopter missions invade privacy and disrupt rural life.
Critics also say it has done little to eradicate marijuana and has even promoted use of other drugs, such as crystal methamphetamine, or ``ice.''
Earlier this month, the council voted 5-3 to accept the money. But the vote was deemed invalid because the required legislation wasn't published in local newspapers, as required by law.
At this past week's meeting, Councilman Angel Pilago, who had supported the program, changed his position. The move, along with one council member's absence, resulted in a 4-4 tie and the failure of the legislation.
(Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved)
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