Cannitrol – Cannabis Control Agent

Marijuana news from around the world

democracy

Colorado dispensary offering 1-cent joint deal to voters until Election Day

Go light up the ballot box then head to Native Roots to get this fire deal.

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Power to the People

power to the people

The cynic will often lament the absence of American democracy.  Phrases such as “we have no power” or comparisons to a police state are very popular.  There is a cynical side to all of us, but equally, most of us hold onto a least a shred of optimism even if we bury it under negative talking points.  Such defense mechanisms make it easier to converse with strangers and get through the day.  There is no doubt that the decks are stacked against us, as most of us do not have paid lobbyists fighting for our jobs, but to those who think the average person can longer make a difference, November may provide a breath of fresh air.

Our elected officials have failed us on many issues and have become complacent and/or unwilling to take a controversial stand.  As a result, with no more free time at anyone’s disposal, we the people have risen.  Marijuana.net reported earlier in the week that Oregon was on its way to becoming the 3rd state (also Washington and Colorado) to put a marijuana legalization vote to its people.  Ignored political issues do not find their way to the ballots itself, rather, it requires the sweat and effort of activists willing to go door to door and collect signatures.  It takes optimism even as some may slam a door in their faces.  It takes compassion, never to forget teens in jail or sick patients running out of options and it takes resiliency to fight on even as our federal government uses every tool at its disposal to sidetrack these efforts.

Advocates were rewarded with even more positive news as this week it was announced that Massachusetts voters will have the option of voting to enact a medical marijuana program.  If passed the law would allow for up to 35 dispensaries statewide.  Over 11,000 signatures were submitted to the Secretary of State William Galvin’s office.  The system looks as if it will be strictly regulated and Massachusetts residents would only qualify if they have debilitating medical conditions such as cancer, ALS or Parkinson’s disease and others.  The state will register dispensaries, employees, and patients and will set rules for the cultivation and storage process.  Additionally, if access to transportation, physical inability to travel, or financial hardship compromise a patient’s access then they will be able to register with the state’s department of health to grown their own plants.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the tasks at hand.  It is the specific intent of reform opponents use to make us feel this way.  However, they are now the minority and even if they have the ears of our representation, we have proven that they all can have each other.  True power rests in the hands of the people and successful ballot initiatives bypass the dysfunction and corruption in Washington D.C.  Change is coming and with all its documented problems, the United States of America still offers such beautiful freedom.  Perhaps we have to work harder for it than we want but it is there, waiting for signatures and the support of our neighbors.  As the election season heats up, expect to hear more news about more legalization/medical votes. When the curtain is closed behind you, pay close attention because your state may have the option of voting for compassion.

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