dispensaries
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.
Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Do Not Increase Teen Use, Study Shows
The rise in teen marijuana use has been a popular discussion for several weeks. As expected, some will blame medical marijuana dispensaries for the increase even without any data to support these claims. As we have previously written, assessing a generation and a cultural shift is not as simple as blaming marijuana collectives.
New research indicates that teenage marijuana smoking does not rise in states with legalized medical cannabis. This also builds on the recent data that showed marijuana collectives did not impact the crime rate in the Sacramento area. Researchers analyzed data from the Youth Risky Behavior Survey which took into account information from the 13 legal medical marijuana programs from 1993-2009. Professors from Montana State University, the University of Oregon and the University of Colorado found no data that shows a rise in teen use in areas with marijuana dispensaries. One of the lead researchers, Professor Daniel I. Rees of the University of Colorado said “There is anecdotal evidence that medical marijuana is finding its way into the hands of teenagers, but there’s no statistical evidence that legalization increases the probability of use.”
Marijuana.net recently posted an article citing the recent data that shows a rise in teenage marijuana smokers as well as a reduction in younger tobacco smokers. We also made the point that this rise may be due to a combination of factors, including new age information sharing. Patient stories and scientific data regarding cannabis are instantly available to a generation raised during the information age. Marijuana propaganda simply cannot hold water in today’s society. Instead we should concentrate on having an open conversation with teens and accessing whether or not it is wise to continue our policy of non-regulation when it comes to cannabis. The culture has shifted and marijuana is here to stay. Continued efforts to deny this are starting to appear silly.
However, appearing silly rarely serves as a deterrent for government officials. This research serves as a rebuff to statements made by the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The office continues to assert that medical cannabis collectives are contributing to a rise in teenage marijuana use despite having evidence supporting the claim. The office may want to do some research as it is getting more difficult to mislead a population that is more informed than the Office of National Drug Control Policy.
Marijuana Superstore WeGrow Opens in Washington D.C.
Often the best place to hide from an enemy may be right under their nose. This may not usually be an ideal choice when the enemy is the federal government, but medical marijuana will be doing just that. Although historic buildings like the White House and the United States Capitol Building loom over the city and serve as a constant reminder of stubborn federal laws, Washington D.C. is set to open medical marijuana dispensaries by the summer.
WeGrow is opening its doors approximately 4 miles away from the White House. Their website suggests that “weGrow is the world’s first honest hydroponic superstore.” Wegrow aims to be a one stop destination for cultivators as they offer nutrients, grow lights, grow mediums, pest and mold control products, and much more. In the “About Us” section of their website they say “Our services are designed to train customers on safe and effective cultivation methods by expert technicians, so you can increase your harvest while also protecting your crop.” WeGrow offers growing classes, designed to maximize yields as well as safety.
Such a large supplier will obviously make the lives of growers convenient, as many of the items they utilize require multiple trips or worrying about shipping products across state lines. Additionally, it could help to provide some uniformity in safety regulations. Dispensary workers and growers will not be forced to shop at WeGrow, but many inevitably will. WeGrow will be having an effect on a significant portion of the Washington D.C. medical marijuana industry and if inspectors make sure they are complying with regulations, patients can be confident that the D.C. area dispensaries are at least buying quality controlled items to cultivate their plants with.
Washington D.C., like much of the country has experienced trouble in attracting new industries and jobs. The medical cannabis industry offers solutions to both of these problems. Large retailers always use employment opportunities as a reason a community should embrace them. WeGrow can claim that in addition to the potential to help increase patient awareness and provide an economic boost that Washington D.C. residents so desperately need.
Colorado Collectives Warned by US Attorney
The early part of this week has delivered mixed news for medical marijuana patients. Those who attended the Cypress Hill Smokeout were treated to an excellent day long music festival and community gathering. There was one unfortunate development regarding Colorado, where the federal government has put their collectives on alert however.
Colorado has taken extraordinary steps to ensure patient access including a state wide licensing system for patients (which is what many advocates are hoping to see in California after the state Supreme Court takes on the issue later this year) and a tighter grip on dispensaries operating under state law. Additionally, a ballot initiative was successful and voters will get the chance to legalize marijuana for recreational use this November. As we mentioned last week, 23 of the over 700 collectives in Colorado were closed down, which only represented approximately 3% of all dispensaries.
A U.S. attorney in Colorado, John Walsh, does not want anyone to feel comfortable as they seek medical relief. The 23 collectives were shut down because they were not in compliance with state law. In most cases it involved collectives being too close to schools. President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder (who may have his hands full explaining his position on the US government’s right to target and kill US citizens overseas in the name of anti-terrorism) have said several times since their time on the 2008 campaign trail that they are not seeking to interfere with collectives and patients abiding by state law. Eric Holder even reiterated this idea as recently as December. However, John Walsh is saying that no collective should feel safe and that it is in his office’s discretion to go after any and all collectives in Colorado. Of course his office has to answer to the White House so we can wait and see if team Obama plans on keeping their word during an election year.
While we do not want to see patient access restricted, we should all take into consideration that a U.S. attorney may not want to describe a scenario where they basically green light a medical marijuana program that follows state laws, but is still under violation on a federal level. While John Walsh says everyone is on notice, they did only carefully select 23 to shut down. A spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office mentioned that dispensaries can be shut down for other non cannabis related violations such as possession of firearms and possessing marijuana when they are not in compliance with state laws. It sounds as if the U.S. attorneys are letting everyone know that they will go after any violation they can uncover. This should not be news as we know the feds are salivating to flex their muscle. However, with a vast majority of the country supporting medical marijuana, voters will have quite a bit to say in only a matter of months. It is important that advocates take action and make it out to the voting polls this November and support patient compassion and relief.
Feds Concentrate on Colorado shouldn’t Overshadow Progress in other States
As the advocates and detractors of marijuana will probably be concentrated around the potential approaching raids in Colorado, you will find a number of other new developments worth keeping track of. Because it stands, 23 shops in Colorado received letters from the us government warning these to shut lower because of condition law violations. Obviously with this country still spinning from the downward economy, no jobs deficits could be dismissed, nor are we able to disregard the problem of compromising patient’s use of medication. However, once we viewed using the fall raids in California, only a tiny proportion from the overall shops are facing any possible complications. Within the situation of Colorado roughly 3% of shops, at this time, face possible closure.
When we change our focus from Colorado to California we might notice another recent story that highlights marijuana’s acceptance racing past tobacco. A week ago marijuana.internet reported on new research which demonstrated that marijuana might not have any impact on long-term breathing. We’ve also found that Marin County has changed language within their new smoking prohibit to simply concentrate on cigarettes. The county is implementing a stride that will eliminate authorized cigarettes in non incorporated apartment models. County Supervisor Kate Sears had initially mentioned that “tobacco, weed, spices or herbs, herbal or any other plant existence” would come under the prohibit. She’s since backtracked and stated the prohibit would only focus strictly on tobacco items.
Obviously you will find lots of new developments around the America’s other coast too. Patient worries in Nj happen to be well recorded because the program continues to be met with each and every bit of bureaucratic bureaucracy your garden Condition could muster. However, patients in Vermont are wishing for any much softer process to get their shops ready to go. The Burlington Free Press is confirming that shops might be serving patients with this summer time. Condition authorities state that the particulars from the program ought to be available over the following couple of days. Return with marijuana.internet once we will give you further particulars because they emerge.
As the us government does nothing when it comes to sensible marijuana reform, don’t be surprised states to consider more action. As states find it difficult to stay afloat financially more will need to consider repel old federal law and consider medicinal marijuana. People are progressively not able to pay for prescription medicines and condition government authorities are increasing fed up with the economical strain of incarceration. Condition privileges is a speaking point for those political figures seeking election this year and because the authorities refuses to alleviate the burden on battling cities, expect more states to consider initiative.
Get more information at information on states with pending medicinal marijuana legislation
Happy Holidays: A glance at Individuals within the Spirit
The holiday season is an excellent season in which the spirit of giving leads us altogether. Many care providers have became a member of within the festivities. Marijuana.internet want to give mention and because of people devoted toward getting holiday pleasure for individuals in need of assistance.
 
Caregivers for example San Francisco’s The Apothecarium, where they’re discount rates for patients giving canned meals, ought to be congratulated. More particulars around the Apothercarium’s holiday efforts.
 
We’d like to say The Yerba Buena Collective, who’re hosting a really effective toy drive. Many children is going to be overcome with pleasure due to Yerba Buena’s efforts. Get more information at more about how Yerba Buena is assisting.
 
Furthermore, let’s remember Gran Purps. For good 6 cans of food contributed, they’re rewarding patients having a free joint. This food goes to individuals who’re battling at this time, and may really make use of a bit of support along with a smile. Here’s more about Gran Purps.
 
Obviously now that we know what people from the community do, but because always it can be every person to help make the holidays special. If you see someone in need of assistance, or short $ 1, allows demonstrate to them what our community is about. We’re here to assist, and that’s why the medicinal marijuana community has displayed a lot passion. There’s a lot more try to be achieved but because your taking pleasure in a warm meal with family members just think about all of the good that’s being carried out. Think about all of the patients who’ll open the present of relief, who definitely are discomfort free and taking pleasure in the vacation. Think about all individuals who’re less fortunate and can be getting a better holiday because of the efforts from the community. Marijuana.internet wishes everybody a really happy and safe holidays.
Attorney General Eric Holder provides Update and further Confusion on Medical Marijuana
In the wake of the recent federal raids that have shaken the medical marijuana industry, many have been expecting legal answers. Will the raids continue in California? Does this signal a shift in President Obama’s medical marijuana policy? Analysts were sure that either the president or attorney general would be engaging America directly and explaining what can be construed as a change in policy.
Unfortunately, Attorney General Eric Holder only added to the confusion in a recent session of the House Judiciary Committee. Representative Jared Polis (D-CO), concerned over rumors of upcoming raids in his state, tried to get Mr. Holder to clarify the White House’s stance on medical cannabis. Holder stated that those who comply with state marijuana laws “should not be an enforcement priority.” He also went on to say “If in fact people are not using the policy decision that we have made to use marijuana in a way that’s not consistent with the state statute, we will not use our limited resources in that way.” For advocates this may sound like the worst is behind them but these statements do not seem very different than Mr. Holder’s 2009 statements, which certainly did not protect against federal raids.
While there is no legal clarity presented to the public with Holder’s statements, like most legally savvy individuals who appear regularly in the media, all statements seem to have an escape clause. The attorney general makes sure to use terms like “priority” and “limited resources”. Both of these terms seem flexible and subject to change. Additionally, previous statements of this nature did nothing in preventing California federal raids. The White House seems to want everyone to know that they do not want to step on state law. Such an accusation during an election year may not serve the Obama administration well. Of course, it only makes the water more murky as we ask why are federal agents raiding establishments who are in compliance with state law, especially a state law that does not agree with federal law? Is it not true that this whole issue stems from Federal law outweighing state law? But November 2012 is not far away so such double speak is to be expected.
The recent session of the House Judiciary Committee could have provided answers, but this administration seems to thrive under a confused legal situation. With a chance to reclassify marijuana as a schedule II drug and put an end to the guessing game, our government instead opted to sit on the fence and keep everyone on their toes. Mr. Holder may get his chance to see his statements at work. If they respect state law so much we will see if they move forward with the proposed raids in Colorado. Colorado has the tightest and most regulated medical marijuana program, so respecting state law in this case may be to just simply walk away.
Medicinal Marijuana Industry News December 2, 2011
Medicinal Marijuana Discussion Makes Go back to Wisconsin Politics
Advocates for medicinal marijuana reform in Wisconsin weren’t discouraged by last year’s legislative defeat. A brand new bill was introduced a few days ago that will allow sick patients to get medical cannabis. If passed, the balance would require patients to join up using the Department of Health Services. The proposal allows marijuana medications for health problems for example cancer, glaucoma, Helps and Aids. It’s not obvious when the bill will pass as there’s considerable opposition from condition Republicans. Condition Repetition. Mark Pocan who props up bill expressed doubts concerning the current proposal being passed but did say “I’m certain sooner or later we’ll pass this in Wisconsin.”
 
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Boulder Marijuana Shops Receive Their Colorado Condition Licenses
Colorado is making head lines using their decision to problem condition licenses for medicinal marijuana shops. Twenty-six Boulder centers have obtained the licenses and roughly 500 more continue to be pending because of local town approval and assessments. There has been as many as 818 candidates. Colorado has gotten much praise for any more patient friendly and controlled method of the state’s medicinal marijuana program.
 
Dispensary Closings bring Unpredicted Bill for Metropolitan areas
Depriving for political attention, California legislators have purchased an excessive amount of from the legislative menu and today are weary to switch within the check and face the outstanding balance. Economic weight problems is yet another common pandemic but it’s unlikely Morgan Spurlock, alone, can deal with this.
When metropolitan areas lately began to alter their approach toward marijuana shops, everything seemed great within the head lines. What many city government authorities are actually finding is the fact that financial aspects is really an intricate problem. Whether it weren’t then there could have been miracle pills for that economy years back. Very frequently we have seen legislation passed that considers nothing when it comes to how a lot of factors are connected within our free market economy. The town of Garden Grove is familiar with a difficult lesson in impulse politics. Costs were mounting a lot for that marijuana dispensary violations (roughlyTwo Hundred Dollars,000 per situation) these were defending that Garden Grove abandoned enforcing its prohibit. Rather, Garden Grove made the decision to want that shops register using the city. Possibly this registration system must have been utilize initially because this is yet another example inside a lengthy line that helps guide you regulation is much better than turning our backs and throwing out the important thing.
The disadvantages of America’s old business design were introduced to the attention in 2008. The ” new world ” economy doesn’t leave room for billions to become wasted each year on marijuana enforcement also it most definitely cannot sustain laws and regulations which are passed with no consideration for that stress on citizen dollars. Garden Grove is simply one city facing this issue so I must be obvious that I don’t desire to pick in it particularly, however, they assist to focus on the whole situation. A few of the blame is around the public too. It might be time for you to start demanding our political figures display a bit more financial savvy. Legislative strategy must be not only a mule going after a 1 problem carrot before its face.
The usual understanding states that it’s not smart to visit food shopping before eating anything. We have to move back, and comfortably think out our choices. Possibly term limits in congress should be thought about to ensure that the want to make a job from Capital Hill won’t over-shadow the significance of well considered legal choices. Our country is within a vulnerable condition and may use every available dollar. The majority of our infrastructure was built around the economic momentum that adopted The Second World War and that we frantically have to rebuild. The the next time the U . s . States includes a menu before it hopefully we think about a salad as our first course and move ahead after that.
Medical Marijuana Industry News Nov. 18, 2011
New Jersey Moves Closer Than Ever Toward First Medical Marijuana Facility
New Jersey could be seeing an end to the ongoing battle to open the doors to its first marijuana dispensary. Medical marijuana has been legal for some time now and 6 applicants were granted approval by the Garden State. There was a drawn out political battle to even get to this point but new challenges arose. Local municipalities have been reluctant to grant the zoning approval for dispensaries. However, now it appears that fight may too be seeing its final round. The Montclair Zoning Board has approved an application from Greenleaf Compassion Center. The state health department has the final say as Greenleaf Compassion Center will have to sit on pins and needles waiting. Another delay or hold up would come as no surprise when taking into account how the legal process for medical marijuana in New Jersey has played out.
Colorado Looking To Slash Price on Marijuana License
While the trend in the medical marijuana industry is raising taxes and fees, Colorado may be taking the opposite course. Reports indicate that the cost of a yearly medical marijuana license may be reduced from $90 to $35. This would be yet another reduction as licenses cost $140 when the state first initiated its program. Colorado’s Board of Health feels that even with the lower license fees they will still be able to cover administrative costs associate with running the medical marijuana program.