Massachusetts
Newest Marijuana Initiative Polls
Political junkies or those working in campaigns have been spending a considerable amount of time analyzing polls recently. Even those who are not as enthusiastic about the election probably cannot escape the constant updates on polling. Yesterday marijuana.net spoke about a polls showing that Colorado voters seem to be heavily leaning toward enacting a measure that would legalize, regulate, and tax marijuana.
Today, we thought maybe we would talk about some polls on marijuana initiatives in other states. Colorado is not the only state with a major marijuana legislative overhaul law that will be voted on by the people in November. Arkansas, Montana, Massachusetts, Washington State and Oregon will leave the future of marijuana reform in the hands of voters in November. These polls are gauging the public’s interest in bills they will be voting on. However, there is also pending legislation in other states to legalize medical marijuana or decriminalize.
The news for activists has been in mostly in their favor. As marijuana.net mentioned yesterday, polls showed a strong majority of Colorado residents favoring the legalization of marijuana. Similar results were found in Washington State as 57% supported legalization with 34% opposed. In Massachusetts 58% of those polled signaled their support to legalize medical marijuana with only 27% opposing the measure. Additionally, a majority of Montana voters do not support the state setting up additional limits on the state’s medical marijuana program. Oregon voters were much more on the fence when it comes to legalizing marijuana with a slight majority disapproving of the measure (46%-43%). There has not been polling data on residents of Arkansas, where they will vote on bring medical marijuana to the south.
The likelihood of at least one state passing a legalized marijuana bill seems extremely high. Additionally it seems at one or more states may soon be joining the growing list of 17 states (and Washington D.C.) that have medical marijuana programs. While many of us have grown weary from polling and statistics being directed our way, we thought many marijuana activists would be pleased to see their efforts are winning over the people.
Mitt Romney Secures Enough Votes with Win in Texas to become GOP Nominee
Although thought to be a foregone conclusion, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney has secured the GOP nomination for the 2012 presidential election. The race has been all but official for some time now as other GOP candidates such as Rick Perry, Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Jon Huntsman, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Perry had already exited the primaries. Long time marijuana supporter, Ron Paul has remained in the race. Romney will accept the party’s nomination at the Republican National Convention, which is to be held in Tampa Florida during late August.
Mitt Romney now will turn his focus squarely on his run against President Barack Obama. The road has been long for Romney who attempted a failed candidacy in 2008 only to lose to the popular senator from Arizona, John McCain. In a statement Romney said “Our party has come together with the goal of putting the failures of the last three and a half years behind us, I have no illusions about the difficulties of the task before us. But whatever challenges lie ahead, we will settle for nothing less than getting America back on the path to full employment and prosperity.” Mitt Romney has and will likely to continue his attacks on the president regarding the economy.
Should he secure the presidency, Americans will hope to see Romney keep his word to fix the the economy. Although job reports and GDP numbers seem to be improving, the economy is fluctuating and with the impending doom of the Greek economy, and continued reports on the European Debt Crisis, Romney may still have his political opening.
Supporters of marijuana legal reform have their own ideas as to how Mitt Romney can accomplish this. Marijuana and even economic advocates would hope that he would pursues decriminalization and taxation measures that could tremendously boost the economy. This year’s presidential election is already proving to be monumental and cannabis reform does not appear to be going away. Judging by the Oregon race for Attorney General, candidates may no longer be able to turn their backs on the issue. Although the candidates will talk about the important standard issues such as tax rates, immigration reform, maintaining or overturning Roe V. Wade, one issue is emerging as the American consensus issue. At about 75% approval, medical marijuana is more popular than any living or recently deceased president. At this point both Mitt Romney and Barack Obama would be happy enough to enjoy the same popularity as legalization of recreational cannabis, which hovers above either candidates approval rating at 56%.
Medical Marijuana Industry News April 13, 2012
Marijuana Advocacy Groups put Pressure on U.S. Attorney John Walsh to Cease Raids
Activists are fighting back after federal raids have targeted the core of the marijuana reform movement. Eleven groups have joined together to request that U.S. attorney John Walsh back off of the threatening letters he has sent to 25 medical marijuana dispensaries, citing violations such as proximity to school zones. The coalition would like to see Walsh respect the dispensaries and patients they serve and have sent a formal letter to the attorney’s office. Among the 11 members of the group is the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, who recently inducted workers from medical marijuana dispensaries from both California and Colorado. It appears the strength of the union may already be paying activists dividends. Additionally, a Denver attorney, Rob Corry, has submitted a Freedom of Information Act request to Walsh, requesting all information Walsh has on medical marijuana and exactly how Walsh determined which dispensaries were too close to schools. Corry has also asked to see evidence of the “the outpouring of thanks and appreciation” that Walsh claims to have received since closing dispensaries.
Mayor of San Francisco Calls Marijuana a Nuisance, Compares it to Liquor Stores and Exotic Clubs
While most Americans may not jump for joy at being referred to as a nuisance, marijuana advocates in San Francisco have been seeking such a description for some time. Mayor Ed Lee now considers marijuana dispensaries as “nuisance retail” but finally called marijuana dispensaries “legitimate.” This may put dispensaries under the same legal category as strip clubs, liquor stores and pawn shops. San Francisco has seen a lot of bickering over its medical marijuana dispensaries. San Francisco currently has 22 dispensaries, with the possibility of more opening as additional permits have been granted.
420 Celebrations Gets Ready for Notable Weekend
Marijuana reform has been gaining significant momentum in 2012 and with April 20 is exactly one week from today, activists voices will not be ignored. Even those outside of marijuana culture realize the significance of this day. Many individuals will be attending the exciting events planned for next weekend. The High Times Medical Marijuana Cannabis Cup will be held in Denver next week. Marijuana.net is proud to be one of the sponsors of the event and for those in Colorado, we hope to see you there. Additionally, other events such as “Overgrow The Government”, Deep Green Fest, and Washington D.C.’s 420 fest will be taking place. Those who comment on this article are encouraged to talk about other events that will be taking place next weekend.
Medical Marijuana may become Reality in Massachusetts
Momentum for marijuana reform has swept the Northeast. Policy makers in Massachusetts have been debating whether or not to legalize medical marijuana for some time now. Federal intervention seems to be a concern so politicians seem keen on leaving the issue to the people. In November, it seems likely that the people of Massachusetts will get a chance to vote on whether or not to legalize medical marijuana.
The Danger in Delivery
Most of the updates we cover in the medical marijuana industry are very serious. Patients seeking relief need marijuana reform desperately so that there is no shame or embarrassment in acquiring their medicine. However, there are times when developments highlighting the need for change are actually quite comical.
The idea of criminals using masks to conceal their identities is nothing new. However, it appears we have seen a rise in crimes performed by those wearing costumes of our favorite popular culture figures. One famous case involved none other than Darth Vader himself who apparently was short on cash and felt compelled to rob a Chase bank in 2010. Two “ninjas”, or at least individuals with authentic costumes, robbed a medical marijuana delivery man. The man dropped a bag of cannabis that was intended for a patient and also money. The two costumed perpetrators thankfully were not armed with Katana blades, but instead batons. No one was hurt and authorities are on the lookout for the ninjas, who may evade capture if their stealth techniques are sharp enough. This story does provide something serious to take away from it however. Those who usually deliver products door to door are not in as much of a high risk situation as a marijuana worker. Pizza delivery employees do not have piles of cash and valuable marijuana on them. Those delivering cannabis should be taking extra precaution and perhaps even escorted by security personnel.
Another comical example of just how much marijuana laws need to be reformed was provided by a man in Massachusetts. Michael Sansone of Whitman did not exactly make much of an effort to conceal his illegal business. He had business cards printed that had a picture of marijuana plant with the words “for sale” and “medical”. Additionally the cards included a phone number and directions that stated “ask for Mike”. The business hours were listed as 3pm-7pm weekdays and 12pm-6pm on weekends. Local Deputy Police Chief Scott Benton said “I guess he’s not an early riser. Only in America.” Police arrested Mr. Sansone after he approached a woman and asked if she wanted to purchase marijuana. He opened the trunk of his car to show her that he had it. The frightened woman contacted local police. Massachusetts does not even permit medical marijuana, and certainly will have zero tolerance for public selling out of one’s car. Although the story may induce a few chuckles, Mr. Sansone is breaking state law and likely does not have his marijuana tested by a lab.
While we can have a little fun with these two news stories, in no way do we want to lose sight of the daily struggles for so many patients. More security precautions should be the future of any delivery service and may eliminate the “ninjas” from stealing medicine and cash. Safe access would prevent the black market that allows an eccentric individual to sell marijuana out of his car. While funny stories bring a smile to our faces, we would see even more smiles on patients faces if we take the stigma out of their medicine.
Money Talks
 
In the end frequently wish it was not the situation, we’re all unwillingly instructed to accept the truth that money truly does make much around the globe go round. Regrettably, altering decades of laws and regulations and anti marijuana sentiment needs a considerably large amount of cash.
A ballot initiative in California is focusing on serious change in the usa marijuana laws and regulations. The initiative is known as “Regulate Marijuana Like Wine” (RMLW). The committee for RMLW only has elevated $80,000 to date. Normally this might pose a significant problem, but new polls in California indicate otherwise. Based on reviews, 62% of qualified voters within the condition offer the initiative. This will bring considerable focus on RMLW which is likely the cause will attract contributor with large pockets. A current article in SF Weekly describes your time and effort by RMLW and it is titled “Marijuana Legalisation Measure Courts Billionaires for Vital Campaign Cash”.
Strangely enough, stated billionaire might be supporting serious legalisation efforts in Massachusetts. Marijuana.internet has formerly reported around the much talked about and possibly wealthiest marijuana advocate, Progressive Corp. Chairman, Peter B. Lewis. Individuals supporting RMLW might want to contact Mr. Lewis, because he has demonstrated he prepared to help financially with measures targeted at altering marijuana laws and regulations. Peter B. Lewis has lately contributed $525,000 towards the Committee for Compassionate Medicine (CCM). This comprises the majority of their money handy. A pr firm stated with respect to CCM their goals will be to “to make sure that Massachusetts patients have a similar accessibility necessary medical assets to battle debilitating illnesses that are offered in 16 other states.” Underneath the suggested program the condition Department of Public Health would problem cards after patients receive documentation from doctors. Centers would then result in cultivation of marijuana in addition to creating other items for example food items, oils, tinctures, and creams. If CCM is effective in collecting the needed signatures, they’ll expect voter approval in November.
Even though it is regretful that legislative change frequently requires bundles of money, we applaud the efforts of Peter B. Lewis. You will find many billionaires who don’t want to be also connected with marijuana, but his personal expertise with medicinal marijuana has permitted him to determine just the number of people his internet worth might help.
Study Indicates That Legal Marijuana Not Increasing Teen Use
Convenience stores sell cigarettes and beer but 7-11 has not been blamed for teenage smoking and drinking. Availability is not the only criteria when assessing use. Even though teens may walk by or even into establishments with these products, there are fail safes for preventing the sale to minors. Most notably is an ID and harsh penalties for adults who provide these products to under aged individuals.
While hard data is hard to come by for alcohol consumption during the prohibition era (bootleggers did not exactly provide itemized lists of sales to the IRS) most experts agree that a similar level of drinking occurred before during and after prohibition. It appears a parallel is emerging with marijuana prohibition in the United States. A recent study conducted at Brown University by Dr. Esther Choo has shown no connection between legalized marijuana states and increased teenage use. Dr. Choo analyzed and compared data between Rhode Island (where medical marijuana is legal) and Massachusetts (a state without a medical marijuana program). She selected these states specifically because of their socio/economic/ethnic similarities. The rate of teenage use was unchanged in Rhode Island and was almost identical to Massachusetts.
Dr. Choo had this to say about medical marijuana patients “ Whether they are taking it for pain or for vomiting control or appetite, this is not a group we think of as superinspiring for young people to take up their drug pattern. It’s an older population who is generally very ill.” Basically, people using marijuana for back pain and nausea may not be the hip group that will motivate teens to smoke cannabis. Also, like alcohol and cigarettes, there are safety mechanisms in place to prevent access by teens. Most medical marijuana facilities are very aggressive in preventing individuals without prescriptions and cards from even entering their offices. Legalization alone does not permit unadulterated access to marijuana.
This could be a rally point for advocates. As urban myths about marijuana fall one by one, critics are going to have to start accepting the hard data. This is not Dr. Choo’s first study in this area. In actuality, this study confirms her findings in a 2006 study. Dr. Choo says she will move on to analyzing data from other states. If the trend of her findings continues, the teenage argument will take a serious hit and another barrier will be removed that prevents a truthful academic conversation about marijuana.
Medicinal Marijuana Industry News Week of August 15th, 2011
Greater than 150,000 people attended the 20th annual Hempfest in Dallas. The mission statement from the event reads: “To educate the general public around the numerous potential benefits provided by the Cannabis plant, such as the medicinal, industrial, farming, economic, environment, along with other benefits and programs.” The big event featured symposiums around the many purposes of medicinal marijuana, suppliers selling paraphernalia, speeches, and live music.
Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) spoke towards the audience on Saturday. Kucinich’s 8 minute speech discussed a number of his favorite subjects: peace, fair trade, equal privileges and also the legalisation of marijuana. * * * Medicinal Genomics lately reported it has completed the DNA sequencing of Cannabis sativa. The biotech firm thinks which will soon be easy to develop drugs which contain the 80 plus advantageous compounds in marijuana with no THC. Pharmaceutical companies have lengthy searched for medicines that will provide advantages to their stockholders, and never customers of medicinal marijuana.   Note for Nerds. You will find 131 billion base pairs of genetic data within Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Inside the various strains there’s greater than a 1% variation. Browse the strain library for a listing of strains available as well as their characteristics. * * * Lawyers, doctors, and patient advocates within the condition of Maryland will work introducing legislation to legalize marijuana for “seriously ill patients.” The legislation is slated for any election through the condition set up this year and could be implemented as soon as The month of january of 2013. Medical utilization of marijuana is legal in 16 states and Washington, D.C. * * * Congress in Massachusetts are thinking about legalizing marijuana for medical reasons. The law allows patients to posses 24 plants or four oz . of Marijuana. More information in regards to this can be obtained from world wide web.masscann.org.