decriminalization
Medical Marijuana Industry News June 8, 2012
Dean Skelos and NY Republicans Oppose Governor’s Decriminalization Plan
New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo made national headlines earlier this week when he announced that he was seeking to amend New York’s marijuana laws. Though marijuana was decriminalized in the 1970s, possession of less than 25g is still a misdemeanor crime if it is in plain sight. Police officers often exploit a loophole by demanding that that people empty their pockets, then say the marijuana is in plain site, eliminating the possibility of the lighter civil citation ticket that would be issued. Many New Yorkers have been outraged at the tactics that seem to target the Black and Hispanic communities. Cuomo has expressed a desire to change the eliminate the plain sight provision and now only smoking marijuana in public would be considered a misdemeanor offense. State Senate Majority leader Dean Skelos was joined by other New York Republicans in opposition to Cuomo’s proposal. The Senator issued a well thought out statement and said “Being able to just walk around with 10 joints in each ear, and it only be a violation, I think that’s wrong.” John Vlasto, Governor Cuomo’s spokesperson responded by saying “Carrying 10 joints in each ear would require some set of ears.” Mr. Skelos did say that those keeping small amounts of marijuana should not be penalized just because they were following a policeman’s orders.
For more on this story click here
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Prescription Drug Abuse has become an Epidemic…
Though opiates are legal through pharmaceuticals pills, they pose a major addiction problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently stated that opiate addiction has become an epidemic in the United States. Additionally, many feel that painkiller addiction is so high that a recent crackdown in opiate pills has pushed addicts to seek out illegal heroin because it contains the similar opiates found in products such as Vicodin and Oxycontin. While this may be news to some, marijuana advocates and patients have long been aware of the dangers that many legal medications possess.
For more on this story click here
New Hampshire Senate Passes Medical Marijuana Bill…
New Hampshire lawmakers are attempting to make their state become the 18th state to permit medical marijuana. This week they passed a bill that would make that happen, but many feel Governor John Lynch will not sign the bill due to fears of how it will be distributed. In 2009 a similar scenario occurred where lawmakers passed a bill only to be vetoed by the Governor. An override of the veto fell two votes short and state legislators fear that could happen again. Evalyn Merrick, a state representative who attributes marijuana with helping her personal fight with cancer said “Over the years, we have convinced many legislators to support this critical reform, With support either from Gov. Lynch or from two additional senators, this bill can finally pass and patients will finally have legal access to medical marijuana.”
For more on this story click on this link
Marijuana Advocate and Presidential Candidate Gary Johnson Appears on the Daily Show…
Getting your fair share of the political spotlight is not always easy if you are a third party candidate. However, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson has been doing well in getting his libertarian message out there. Johnson is known for supporting progressive social issues such as same sex marriage and marijuana legalization. This week he appeared on “The Daily Show” to talk about his approach to fixing America. He has also been featured several times on “The Colbert Report”. As always he was not shy about calling for an end to the failed war on drugs and continues to be an advocate of small government.
Click on the video below to see the interview
| The Daily Show with Jon Stewart | Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Gary Johnson | ||||
|
||||
New Jersey Lawmakers Consider Decriminalization Efforts
Yesterday, marijuana.net reported the developing story in New York pertaining to medical marijuana. It appeared that New York may in fact be following the lead of its neighboring states New Jersey and Connecticut. Now it appears, that New Jersey may be playing copycat with New York when it comes to marijuana decriminalization efforts.
We have frequently mentioned all of the momentum in the northeast for marijuana reform. Fortunately, there have been constant and positive updates for advocates of reform. Yesterday several news outlets reported that some New Jersey lawmakers are proposing legislation that would decriminalize low level marijuana possession. Currently, 50 grams or less can carry a sentence of 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. The proposed measure would penalize marijuana possession similar to how New York does, with a civil citation ticket. This helps to ensure that a small level marijuana possession charge would not have an impact on the rest of a person’s life.
The newly proposed law comes at a time where New Jersey, like every state, could benefit substantially from the savings decriminalization efforts provide. Jails are filled with those incarcerated for possessing a harmless plant as tax revenues can certainly be better used elsewhere. As the popular HBO show depicts, New Jersey knows firsthand the long term damage that prohibition can have. Alcohol prohibition launched a crime syndicate on the Atlantic City boardwalk. Now the potential for crime and large scale distribution of another banned substance is hurting New Jersey again. However, it is the youth, specifically in the minority community where the ultimate price will be paid. So many futures are ripped away by a frivolous charge for possessing a small amount of marijuana.
Although the entire west coast has legalized medical marijuana, new developments in the northeast seem to be making the region emerge as a safe haven for patients. Northeast states also seem to be considering a change of heart when it comes to jailing its youth. Even New York City’s controversial “stop and frisk” program has come under fire. With medical marijuana on the horizon and the possibility for decriminalization efforts, New Jersey is poised to become one of the most progressives areas for marijuana reform. However, no one is certain as to how Governor Christie will react to a decriminalization bill as he has demonstrated his opposition to the states medical marijuana program previously. However, as residents of the garden state grow weary from watching their loved ones suffer, their children going to prison, and their hard earned tax dollars being wasted, the Governor’s hand may be forced. It may be time for New Jersey to utilize a new approach as they can ill afford another Boardwalk Empire.
Medical Marijuana Industry News May 4, 2012
Minority House Leader Nancy Pelosi Challenges Federal Government Over Marijuana Raids… As the federal raids continue against marijuana dispensaries, President Obama has had to deal with comments from all over the world. Perhaps he was surprised to hear that his newest critic is one of his closest political allies, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). …continue reading
“Giant” Victory for Patients
Like the New You are able to Titans last evening, marijuana advocates happen to be performing their strategy perfectly. Both Nh and Washington Condition have suggested legislation to create major switch to the usa marijuana laws and regulations.
Nh has yet to pass through any laws and regulations enabling medicinal marijuana. Several attempts within the condition government have unsuccessful to outlive the legislative process. A brand new bill to decriminalize marijuana continues to be suggested by condition authorities. House Bill 1526 would change marijuana possession from the Class A criminal offence to some breach offense supported with a $100 fine.The is through targeted at lowering the financial burden of busts and incarceration associated with cannabis. Patient access could be made certain, a minimum of on the state-wide level. Barring a fast change of mind in Washington D.C, the dispute between federal and condition law would remain. It remains unclear if legislators in Nh will pass the balance.
As formerly included in marijuana.internet, Washington Condition can also be thinking about dramatic changes for their cannabis laws and regulations. Several several weeks ago, Governor Chris Gregoire together with Governor Lincoln subsequently Chafee of Rhode Island, formally asked for reclassification of marijuana from the us government. With momentum in the ballot initiative brought by New Approach Washington, marijuana legalisation appears much more likely than ever before. Because enough signatures were collected, people from the condition government will election around the measure. If they don’t pass the balance, the citizens of Washington Condition may have their chance to enact what the law states in November. Building upon the ballot initiative, condition legislators have finally adopted the Governor’s lead and also have also formally sent the DEA a request to reclassify marijuana.
Clearly, both citizens and political figures have proven tremendous support to have an overhaul on cannabis law. While Nh might not check this out bill pass, a minimum of you will find now consistent efforts within the condition to attain reform, and sooner or later patients and advocates could see a user friendly atmosphere toward medicinal marijuana. Washington, however, appears poised to march onto victory and produce home probably the most sensible approach toward marijuana.
A Letter to Santa
Dear Santa,
This year for Christmas what I want the most won’t fit in a stocking. You see, things down here, south of the pole, are a little bit out of sorts. We have a lot of sick people who are having problems obtaining their medication. Some of us have found that nothing helps our ailments like marijuana. But it’s illegal to buy, own, and sell it in most of the country. California’s been nice enough to allow dispensaries for medical marijuana, but even the Golden State seems to be confused about what they want. In other states they have really strict drug laws and someone can go to jail just for having their meds on-hand for when they need them.
There are countless instances where this is a major problem. We have ill grandmothers out there in poor health, waiting for some relief. Do we need people with arthritis and bad hips turning to street vendors?. We have situations where these people have to seek treatment illegally. Sometimes they have to depend on loved ones to for access to their medication. Santa, what an unfair situation this is to put people in. We do not want to break the law, but we are not heartless and do not want to watch those close to us suffer.
Could you figure a way to drop a bill into the stockings of all the senators and representatives in congress? I’m not good at lawyer-speak but could you write up some new legislation for marijuana in America? I think it needs to be reclassified into a schedule 2 substance because of its medical properties so doctors can prescribe it. Also, I guess we need to find additional ways to tax it on both a federal and state level. This way it can help to reduce the nation’s deficit. Look, I’m not just asking for me. This could help a lot of people. It could keep young kids from ruining their lives and can put money into the hands of government officials instead of criminal cartels. And it can help make lots of people who are sick to feel better and cope with harsh treatments.
I know its asking a lot, but do you think you can do it? If you can’t, I understand. You have elves in your workshop and I don’t think any of them went to Harvard Law. If this doesn’t work out, my back up wish is for our stockings to be full of that Northern Lights (is that what you grow up there?) so many patients eyes will fill with joy!
Thank you Santa,
From all the patients in our community.
P.S. still holding out for peace on earth and goodwill towards mankind.
A Period to provide Thanks
Hot poultry, stuffing, cranberry sauce, cornbread, pumpkin cake, and lots of other goodies may dominate your Thanksgiving this season, it is a superb day for reflection too. Marijuana.internet want to take this excellent chance to provide because of individuals who’ve assisted make our industry possible through the years. Even though it is impossible to incorporate them all-in-one tribute article, we are able to discuss a couple of.
For just one, we have to begin with giving because of George Washington for a lot of reasons. Clearly, he might be the only biggest reason we are able to fly our very own unique beautiful flag and revel in our independence. George Washington, who couldn’t have recognized it at that time, provided us probably the most credible arguments for marijuana and hemp use still used today. He would be a known grower and would be a major proponent of hemp’s many uses. While George Washington is really a tough act to follow along with, you will find many more accountable for enhancing the marijuana industry progress. Although he didn’t start and win a revolution against an excellent powered tyrant (really he indeed might have), Keith Stroup did begin a worldwide and influential organization. Could any marijuana advocates make a world without NORML? Stroup produced NORML decades ago and lots of feel his direct efforts have brought to decriminalization laws and regulations. The next one we wish to give because of is really a leading heroine within the medicinal marijuana industry. Steph Sherer produced the audience People in america for Safe Access. Her organization makes tremendous strides in supplying information and protecting the privileges of patients. People in america for Safe Access is symbolic of medicinal marijuana and it has acquired worldwide prestige. Let’s also give because of Dennis Peron. Without his efforts it’s possible we would haven’t seen the passage from the famous Proposition 215. Peron offered the U . s . States within the Vietnam war as well as for decades saw the advantages of marijuana use. Also, he needed to watch his partner, Jonathan West, are afflicted by complications associated with Helps. Peron has mentioned that West frequently found relief with cannabis use.
While marijuana reform may apparently be moving in a snail’s pace for many, it’s still vital that you give because of a rustic where might have a wide open dialogue. This isn’t for everyone as fluff for the federal government, but to really reflect. Although a lot of patients still suffer, many happen to be capable of finding relief through condition run medicinal marijuana programs. We have to be grateful we have the various tools to produce change, awareness and then progress in this region. We ought to give because of ballot initiatives and also to the political figures who really do are a symbol of patient relief as well as for civil privileges.
Thanksgiving is really a unique holiday. It excludes no religion, no race. It encourages family and buddies to obtain together, to understand and also to love one another. Let’s be grateful it’s not the nineteen thirties, but don’t forget forget we have a lengthy road in front of us. Eventually people like Dennis Peron, or Steph Sherer will no more be around us, however their extreme efforts will not be overlooked. We only hope that lots of more is going to be inspired by their efforts and become willing to get the torch to help keep fighting the great fight. Because the hot poultry lulls you to definitely sleep, you are able to relax, reflect, and provide thank you for a lot.
Marijuana Busts in California increasing
For anybody that ever learned they are driving while getting both mom and dad within the vehicle, you can easily know how confusing conflicting messages could be. Coping with two parents bicker regarding your driving concurrently is certainly frustrating, but mixed signals about legal/social norms in the forces that be, could be devastating for many.
While decriminalization and legalisation (for medical reasons) measures happen to be approved from 1990-2010 in California, marijuana busts are remarkably increasing throughout this time around period based on new studies. Youthful Black teens from the biggest number of California marijuana possession busts. Even when they’re billed with small possession, the criminal history of those teens can follow them for any very long time and become very harmful in seeking employment or college acceptance. While there’s likely more marijuana currently available then in 1990, grown ups have the effect of recognizing that the requirements of medical patients ‘s the reason for cannabis’ legitimacy in California and never social entertainment. Strongly going after teenage busts for marijuana is much more of the extreme practice. If government authorities appear to become confused regarding how you can navigate the land of condition versus. federal law, then confusion for teens ought to be understood as well as expected.
Laws and regulations passed this past year transformed the possession penalties for cannabis to under one ounce is punishable having a fine and doesn’t accompany a needed court appearance. The modification might have been feeling relaxed concerns for a while of your time, however the federal government’s recent actions might be stirring in the hornet’s nest again. If local police see feds crashes with the home windows and doorways of shops entirely riot gear, they consequently can also increase their vigilance toward arresting individuals for possession. Confusion regarding which law to follow along with may occur. The us government could also place the pressure on local police force to create more busts. Once we have previously seen, a vulnerable area of the population (Black teens) stands to miss out if this sounds like the situation.
In 1990, 8 percent of drug related busts were marijuana related. That number, this year, arrived at 30 %. The phone call isn’t always for brand new laws and regulations or politics. We sometimes simply need to use good sense. Busts and incarcerations for teens derails youthful lives and results in huge financial burden. Police force must only think about these busts when essential and steer clear of anymore confusion.
14 Years Old Australian Boy Might Find Extended Visit To Indonesia
 
The struggle for any more sensible approach toward marijuana law has survived for more than eighty years. However, despite the fact that it’s been a lengthy process, you will find regions with much more crude laws and regulations relating to marijuana. With lots of states now getting decriminalized marijuana laws and regulations as well as legalizing medicinal marijuana, the U . s . States has a minimum of made progress.
For individuals who believe that marijuana busts within the U.S. are far overreaching, there’s no situation to become imagined in which a 14 years old billed with possession would face 12 years in prison. However, a household from Australia travelling in Indonesia is facing this extreme scenario. A boy out of this household is being billed with purchasing 3.6 grams of marijuana. Due to his youthful age his title can’t be launched openly. The apparent question that arises is when can the boy be too youthful to possess his title launched although not be too youthful to get rid of his remaining youth within an 8×8 jail cell.
Indonesia has very strict drugs laws and regulations because this household is discovering firsthand. Reviews indicate the boy has divided in the court and begged the court to not send him to jail. The boy, in tears, has pleaded using the judge proclaiming that he’ll never look for marijuana again. Regrettably for your loved ones, their finest legal option might be to assert the boy is definitely an addict. Under Indonesia law, a small can avoid incarceration for drugs violations by showing past drug abuse. Under this type of scenario rehab could be replaced for any jail sentence.
This situation warrants further attention and hopefully this news could be more positive with this family. Divorce lawyer atlanta good sense will prevail which boy won’t face permanent damage inside a jail. Furthermore, sometimes laws and regulations appear more efficient in writing also it requires a human face or situation to inspire change. Possibly Indonesia can consider changing their laws and regulations to ensure that no minors later on are searching in their lives rising in smoke.
Important Occasions- The Birth Of Marijuana Decriminalization
As current occasions unfold, we viewed regular updates and produce important news for you. It’s also vital that you highlight past developments to be able to possess a true outlook during marijuana law within the U . s . States. While the thought of decriminalization is breaking through cities from coast to coast in an effort to cope with our current economy, it has really been happening for near to 4 decades.
Whilst not typically regarded as an advocate for marijuana reform, Richard Nixon unintentionally might have provided the first spark for any effective decriminalization campaign. In 1972 he commissioned research on marijuana use in the National Commission on Marijuana and Substance Abuse. The commission discovered that marijuana prohibition may really be unconstitutional. The commission also mentioned the legislative branch from the U . s . States government were built with a responsibility to obey the Metabolic rate. These claims happen to be championed by advocates for many years who’ve searched for to possess marijuana removed as schedule 1 drug.
Following a discharge of the commission’s findings a brand new check out marijuana law began to consider form. In 1973, Or grew to become the very first condition to change their laws and regulations and decriminalize marijuana. Having 1 ounce or less yields a possible $500-$1000 fine. Or opened up the ton gates and inside a couple of many years of passing their new laws and regulations Alaska, Colorado, California, Mississippi, New You are able to, Nebraska, New York, and Ohio all passed some type of cannabis decriminalization.
Because the push for marijuana reform progresses you should observe that this is a decades lengthy progression. Even though some social issues have single land mark cases( Roe v. Wade, or Brown v. Board of your practice ) most legal victories within the U . s . States are the effect of a number of occasions. Return soon once we still reveal important occasions in marijuana history.
Four Americans Still Receive Marijuana From Federal Government
The Marijuana Tax Act, which made the sale possession and cultivation of marijuana illegal under federal law was instituted in 1937. The passage of this billed was aided with the success of the propaganda laced “Reefer Madness” film. Of course this has been common knowledge for a long time. Or is it?
Surprisingly, four individuals do in fact receive marijuana from the federal government. In 1976, a court settlement was reached resulting in 14 people being able to receive high quality medical marijuana from the federal government. The program is not often discussed in the mainstream and the government has likely wanted to keep it this way for past 35 years. Like anyone in politics, the federal government has a past, or an embarrassing cousin they do not want us to meet. With states legalizing marijuana and federal raids, the government does not want us to think there was a time where they had a free spirited youth.
This story is not new, in fact it is 35 years old. This is like finding out your spouse has been leading a secret life. The subject hit news recently as a 72 year old woman from Oregon was pulled over and informed state troopers that her marijuana was issued by the federal government. They held obvious skepticism to the woman’s claim, but after follow up through proper channels, realized she was telling the truth.
With more research pouring in on the therapeutic/medicinal value of cannabis and the economic relief that accompanies decriminalization, the federal government’s position on marijuana has already been greatly weakened. To now see that the federal government has the ability to cultivate, monitor, and distribute the very medicine they have preached against devastates their case. The feds say there is no contradiction here but that seems to be a difficult sale considering the facts. Can this create momentum for marijuana decriminalization/legalization? Will the federal government consider expanding an already existing program? Or will they just try to straighten out their story and continue to put a strain on tax dollars?