New York
Marijuana Updates In the Northeast
Nearly all People in america support legalized leisure marijuana based on recent polls. The huge most of People in america are in support of medicinal marijuana. It isn’t any surprise that there’s been much movement on legal marijuana within the northeast, a region if America with one when the greatest population densities.
Rhode Island is placed to determine it’s first medicinal marijuana dispensary open. On Friday the Thomas C. Slater Empathy Center is anticipated to spread out their doorways. The center is centered on safety and won’t treat the recognition to be the very first dispensary in Rhode Island as a given. The cultivation director of Slater Empathy, Joel T. Allcock, is rejecting about 40% from the medication posted to him to be able to ensure people are not place in danger.
Another northeast condition has developed in the news recently for marijuana related issues too. However, while “stop and frisk” remains a hotly debated problem, there is really a new update in the Empire Condition. For the very first time there seems to become a realistic chance that NY congress may pass an invoice legalizing medicinal marijuana. Polls reveal that over two thirdof NY citizens desire to view it happen. A quantity of similar bills have unsuccessful over the past few years, but condition lawmaker Richard Gottfried feels this time around might be different. The Manhattan Democrat lately mentioned openly “I am positive this season partially because polling data is constantly on the show a rising degree of public support.”
We’ll keep close track of these tales and supply any updates because the develop. Almost every condition in the area has thought about amended their marijuana laws and regulations or have seriously considered doing this previously couple of years. The western U . s . States might be ahead when the northeast if this involves legalized marijuana however the northeast seems to become moving in an faster pace now.
Marijuana Industry News March 29, 2013
Portugal Decriminalization Yielding Positive Results…
The idea of decriminalizing marijuana has become increasingly popular over the years. At times, it seems only elected officials are seeking to maintain the failed approach. The idea of decriminalization and re diverting money while keeping teens out of jail is winning the argument. Those who support outdated drug laws never seem to take Portugal into consideration. Twelve years ago, Portugal underwent a major overhaul of their approach to controlled substance regulation. Even in the midst of many critics, they decided to pass decriminalization laws. The results are not shocking to activists as Portugal has seen the new laws produce results. Doctor João Goulão, a former family physician, has contributed a great deal to the new policies. He recently said that decriminalized laws needed to be considered because “We figured perhaps this way we would be better able get things under control. Criminalization certainly wasn’t working all that well.” While the idea enjoys more acceptance today, Dr. Goulão explained that Portugal was a pioneer in their approach over a decade ago. He said “At the point when we designed the law, we had hardly any data to draw on. We weren’t the least bit certain this would work.” The bill passed is referred to as “Law 30/2000” and Dr. Goulão explains that it has been successful. Specifically he said “This is working. Drug consumption has not increased severely. There is no mass chaos. For me as an evaluator, that’s a very good outcome.”
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Bill to Legalize and Tax Marijuana In Maine receives Support From Many Lawmakers…
With Colorado and Washington’s historic laws to legalize marijuana, it is not surprising that many other states are following their lead. We at marijuana.net have been pleased to report about all the new states considering decriminalization, legalization, and medical marijuana laws. Maine has recently introduced a bill that would legalize and tax marijuana. While it is unclear if the bill will pass, it is making sizable waves in the state government. There are already 35 co-sponsors for the bill and now it will move to a legislative committee hearing. If passed, there would be a $50 tax per ounce, with individuals being permitted to posses 2.5 ounces. Earlier this week, Maine’s political director for the Marijuana Policy Project, David Boyer said Maine can and should take a more sensible approach to marijuana policy and we are glad to see so many legislators agree.” Another interesting element of the Maine legalization bill is that is was lawmaker initiated. The legalization laws in Washington and Colorado were voter driven, as activists collected enough signatures to get the laws on the ballot and by a vote of the people. Maine appears to highlight a turning point, where introducing a marijuana legalization bill no longer hurts and perhaps even enhances their standing with voters.
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Dispensaries May Open this Year in Massachusetts…
It is clear that he northeast region of the United States is becoming a hotbed for marijuana reform. We have spoken at great length about New Jersey finally getting its medical program off the ground. Additionally, New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo has been fighting hard to reform “stop and frisk” in order for decriminalization laws function as they were intended. Connecticut has also legalized medical marijuana and just above this story we spoke about Maine considering legalization. Massachusetts may see the doors open to dispensaries before 2013 is over. The Massachusetts Department of Health has now filed draft regulations on medical marijuana use and expects to have a finalized version by May. The Department of Health is expected to start accepting applications for dispensaries over the summer. Last November, 63% of Massachusetts voters elected to legalize medical marijuana.
President Obama Officially Starts His Second Term
Earlier today America watched the President of the United States be sworn in for his second term. There was an enormous crowd on hand to witness the historical event. Unfortunately, in modern day politics, the day would not be complete without House GOP members playing politics with the Presidential Inauguration. Many skipped the event with critics accusing them of making America “look like brats.”
It does not feel as if four years have passed since we lasted watched Barack Obama recite the oath. There was optimism in the air for activists when President Barack Obama became president in 2009. The self proclaimed fan of marijuana took a progressive stance on our failed marijuana policy. He informed the public that marijuana was a low priority and that he did not envision the Department of Justice using significant resources to attack the medical marijuana industry. Over the course of the last year and a half, however, those statements seemed to be challenged by federal raids in California, Colorado, and Montana.
As we have already covered in previous articles, 2012 looks to be serving as a key turning point in the marijuana reform movement. If the recent tax and “fiscal cliff” debate are any example, then finances are going to be a point of contention for some time. It is time for this president to re-prioritize our resources. America wants our children protected and lack of funds for mental health facilities, or additional police officers for schools will be considered unacceptable by the public.
Marijuana.net recently reported that a high profile Obama ally, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, has publicly discussed reforming marijuana laws in his state. Cuomo may be testing the waters for future political action. Since his statements have not resulted in a political suicide, we hope the president takes note. Any president is conscious of his legacy and we wonder exactly what President Obama was thinking as he placed his hand on that bible and said “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” Somewhere in that Constitution we are pretty it says something about protecting the rights of the people.
NY Governor Cuomo Using Spotlight to Highlight State Marijuana Reform
It has been a busy few months for New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo. The Obama ally maintained a high profile during the election (he seems to be poised to make his own run for the White House) and campaigned for the president. Governor Cuomo has also been vocal in his criticism during the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy which includes attempting to break up LIPA’s energy monopoly and has demanded that Congress appropriates money to the region to help rebuild. He has also gotten out in front of the gun debate and is seeking to make pass one of the country’s toughest assault weapon ban.
However, Governor Cuomo has also taken on another important issue. When Mr. Cuomo first ran for governor he maintained a traditional skepticism to marijuana reform. He even sounded harshly against any progressive legislation in this area. Over the course of the past two years his public comments have softened considerably. Last spring, the governor informed the public that he was seeking to eliminate New York’s controversial “Stop and Frisk” policy. This loophole, goes against the spirit New York’s marijuana decriminalization laws that were passed in the 1970s. Possession of under 25g (concealed) is supposed to result in a civil citation ticket. However, if marijuana is in “plain sight”, then the charges escalate to a much more severe misdemeanor.
Earlier this week, Governor Cuomo re-affirmed his stance. On Wednesday, in a public speech he said “The legislature finds that arrests, criminal prosecutions, and criminal penalties are inappropriate for people who possess small quantities of marihuana for personal use. Every year, this process needlessly scars thousands of lives and wastes millions of dollars in law enforcement resources, while detracting from the prosecution of serious crime.” He also said marijuana arrests that “stigmatize and criminalize must end now.”
Advocates for marijuana reform have been pleased to see Governor Cuomo trying to fix the controversial loophole. “Stop and Frisk” is used primarily within New York City’s jurisdiction and unevenly targets Blacks and Hispanics, many of whom are teens. Gabriel Sayegh, New York state director for the Drug Policy Alliance, said “We cannot have the same laws applied differently to different groups of people when the dividing line is race.” While New York City is known as a progressive haven, the rest of the state has been resistant to making any changes to marijuana laws. However, with mounting debt and new financial priorities after Hurricane Sandy, New York can no longer afford to lock up so many people who pose no public threat. Many residents are angry over their tax dollars being used to fill up jails with teens. We are glad to see the Governor take initiative and if the second generation governor (his father is former NY Governor Mario Cuomo) with obvious presidential aspirations feels he can get this done without political turmoil, then it is obvious that the reform movement has turned a major corner.
New Jersey Dispensary Finally Serves Patients Medical Marijuana
After what has felt like a soap opera, New Jersey patients have finally now been able to legally access medical marijuana. The former Governor, Jim Corzine signed off on legislation permitting medical marijuana during his final days in office. However, Governor Christie and other lawmakers have delayed the program with as many bureaucratic and administrative delays as they could muster. After that, local townships refused to grant zoning permits.
Although officially legal, medical marijuana would remain in a stalemate until Montclair finally decided to consider the needs of patients and granted Greenleaf Compassion Center its zoning permit. On Thursday, after years of frustration and delays, Greenleaf’s doors finally opened to patients. At first supplies will be limited and patients will only have the option to purchase in half ounce increments. Greenleaf president Joseph Stevens expects supply to be a non issue soon and recently said “everything’s been going great”at the center.
New Jersey has some of the strictest rules in the nation for patients to receive a medical marijuana prescription. So far there are only 300 patients registered. However, the program will grow and more patients will be granted relief as time goes on and more conditions are recognized in the program. Additionally, there may soon be six dispensaries in the Garden Staten as five other collectives have received approval. New Jersey is one of the most populous states in the nation. We believe and hope they will show other states in the northeast and east coast how to run medical marijuana dispensaries. We all know who New Jersey’s big brother and it may only be a matter of time now before the Big Apple approves medical marijuana.
Medical Marijuana Industry News September 28, 2012
Probation Workers Find That Chris Brown Tests Positive for Marijuana…
It has been an eventful few weeks in terms of marijuana developments in regards to celebrity. Lady Gaga publically smoked a joint onstage in Amsterdam and Fionna Apple was arrested in Texas for marijuana and hashish possession. Enter Chris Brown. The controversial star is again in the news. Because of his conviction in 2009 for assaulting then girlfriend, Rihanna, Chris Brown was placed on probation for 5 years. Mr. Brown failed a drug test in June while performing community service in Virginia. However, the plot thickens a bit because he is medical marijuana card holder. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Patricia Schnegg, said that mandatory drug tests were not a part of Chris Brown’s sentence. The judge scolded him and said “You are not an ordinary person who can sit in your living room and do whatever you want to do. More importantly, a lot of people look up to you, a lot of kids. What you do and what you say impacts a lot of people.” It appears this may just be grandstanding by authorities as Brown has not officially done anything that is in direct violation of his probation.
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Momentum Building in New York State For Marijuana Reform…
Several months ago New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he was seeking to change the controversial “Stop and Frisk” tactics used primarily by NYPD officers. Now it appears there is a growing call to institute a medical marijuana program. New York’s closet neighbors, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Vermont now have all either passed or started medical marijuana programs. Additionally, at a recent forum in Syracuse, many speakers came out in support of marijuana for MS patients. The forum received considerable media coverage and could be important to changing minds of upstate New York politicians. New York City and Long Island residents support medical marijuana with upstate residents and lawmakers a bit more on the fence. Even though the overall population of New York supports marijuana (61%), many upstate politicians work for residents in rural areas that are divided on the issue. The result contributes to Albany’s epic reputation for stalemate politics. The momentum appears to be changing and New York should be joining the growing list of states with medical marijuana within a few years.
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Arkansas Upholds Ruling for Medical Marijuana To Appear on Ballot…
Medical marijuana has typically been a coastal and Midwest conversation. However, in a testament to compassion, economics, and widespread communication, Arkansas now may become the first state to legalize medical marijuana. The ballot initiative has been successful due in large part to the efforts of Arkansas for Compassionate Care. The group contributed significantly to gathering enough signatures to get the issue to the ballots. This seemed to have been decided months ago, however, a group named Coalition to Preserve Arkansas Values filed a lawsuit to remove the issue from the ballot on the basis that it mislead voters. The Arkansas Supreme Court disagreed and ruled that “We hold that it is an adequate and fair representation without misleading tendencies or partisan coloring. Therefore, the act is proper for inclusion on the ballot at the general election on Nov. 6, 2012, and the petition is therefore denied.” Even if voters pass the measure, there will probably be resistance from the Governor who has previously stated his opposition to the bill. However, as Arizona Jan Brewer has found, it may be a slippery slope to challenge the will of voters.
Marijuana Updates Across the Country
With the federal government’s refusal to reclassify marijuana, medical cannabis progression has been achieved state by state. Most states have with medical marijuana programs are the result of ballot initiatives and efforts of local residents as state policy makers are unwilling to disobey federal law. The birth of modern medical marijuana got off to a bumpy start, and there may yet be future setbacks. However, in a country that cannot agree on much, it appears we are coming together over compassion, relief, and the law.
In Maine we recently learned of a story that shows how important it is to regulate cannabis and not turn a blind eye . Glenn W. Martin, a marijuana grower, used to illegally sell his crop to customers in New York and Boston. He has struggled, like many, with rising cost of living and had trouble paying his rising property taxes. Now that Maine has altered their laws, he is allowed to sell to patients and no longer has to hide his skills and the industry that he excels in. Last week Martin said “I’m focusing on how to make a high-quality product,’’ and It’s one of the best things to happen in our area.”
Moving across the country, there has been great news coming out of Arizona. Residents of the state passed a marijuana program about two years ago. However, Governor Jan Brewer and other state officials made every effort they could to derail the program. Having realized that ultimately the state has little choice but to allow the program to operate, there has been a different tone lately. The governor recently rejected formal letters by 13 county lawyers to stop the program. Ms. Brewer stated that she could not do so and was bound to the resident passed law. It now appears that dispensaries should be operating relatively soon. The town of Gilbert has started things off and is expected to hold a lottery to determine which dispensary applicants will be granted permission to start operating. Six potential dispensaries will be keeping their fingers crossed and hope that their name is on one of the two selected lottery balls drawn. Gilbert has 900 qualified medical marijuana cardholders and overall Arizona has 30,000 approved patients.
It may have taken some time but Arizona finally appears ready to abide by the wishes of its residents. On the side of the country Maine is showing a progressive approach to 40 years of failed laws and is starting to allow a necessary industry from operating in the shadows. Maine and Arizona are on opposite sides of the political spectrum but are showing that relief and compassion has little to do with blue vs. red states.
Medical Marijuana Industry News June 15, 2012
Rhode Island Governor Signs Bill To Decriminalize Marijuana Possession…
Rhode Island will follow the momentum for reform that is taking that is going on northeast. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has already proposed eliminating unintended marijuana arrests in New York’s controversial “Stop and Frisk” program. That debate is sure to heated as Albany lawmakers are known for partisan politics. Governor Lincoln Chafee is a step ahead of New York as he has just signed a bill that will decriminalize marijuana possession of less than one ounce. Previously that amount would have resulted in a misdemeanor with possible jail time and a $500 fine. Under the new law the penalty will be a civil citation and a $150 fine. Minors would be required to complete a drug awareness program and community service.
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Medical Marijuana Bill Passes New York State Assembly but tough Road Ahead…
As mentioned above New York lawmakers will consider the Governor’s proposal to eliminate or amend the plain sight provision in the “Stop and Frisk” program which has become a loophole for law enforcement officials to arrest New Yorkers on serious marijuana charges. In another development coming out of the Empire State legislators in the state’s assembly have passed a bill that would see New York join the growing number of states that permit medical marijuana. However the bill appears to have a tough legislative road ahead of it. Multiple medical marijuana bills have failed in New York state in the past. The momentum seems to be gaining as more state lawmakers are joining the 80% of residents who feel a physician should have the right to prescribe medical marijuana. Governor Cuomo has indicated that he would likely not sign the bill. There is hope for the future for New York patients as the governor has amended his view considerably since his 2010 campaign.
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Imperial Beach Residents may get chance to Repeal Ban on Dispensaries…
Imperial Beach residents may get a chance to change what is considered the most restrictive marijuana laws in San Diego County. Even those with medical licenses are not permitted to keep any cannabis plants. There is a petition being circulated in Imperial Beach and so far the response has been very supportive of repealing the ban. Over 15% of registered voters have signed the petition. Eugene Davidovich of Americans for Safe Access (ASA) said “Strong regulations like the ones we’re proposing would keep medical cannabis away from children and schools, and create a safe means for those who are qualified, to have safe, reliable, local access to that medicine.” He also went on to say . “At the same time, we’re taking into strong consideration the concerns of the neighborhood.”
Marijuana.net Will be Attending the 2012 Hempcon in San Jose…
For those who plan on being in the San Jose area we encourage you to check out Marijuana.net at Hempcon this weekend. As always, we will be providing education on patient issues, new legal developments, and the future of cannabis in the United States and rest of the world. We will even have our staff on hand who can provide advice on what strains are appropriate for individual. The one on one session will result in a recommendation based on several criteria including ailments to be treated and desired effects. We will also be continuing our popular vaporizer raffle which has been a success as many previous events. Hope to see you there!
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.
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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.
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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.”
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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 | ||||
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Medical Marijuana Industry News June 1, 2012
Anti- Marijuana Stance may have caused Congressman his Job…
The Huffington Post’s website recently posted an article that describes a congressional election that may have been won and lost because of medical marijuana. What has marijuana advocates even more excited is this did not occur in California, Washington, or Colorado, but in Texas. El Paso Democrats decided to let Rep. Silvestre Reyes exit office in favor of Beto O’Rourke. While the race was for the primary, the mostly Democratic district is expected to choose O’Rourke, the winner of this race. Over the years, Reyes has been very adamant in his opposition to marijuana reform. The election seems to have highlighted El Paso voters concern with the growing violence along the Mexican border. Beto O’Rourke helped to push a 2009 legalization resolution in response to the growing problems along the border. Reyes, who maintains very close ties with President Obama and former President Clinton opposed and said that the district risked losing federal funding even if they simply discussed and debated the issue. Residents did not find the explanation of his opposition satisfactory and have moved on. Activists nationally are showing their political muscle as the Attorney General race in Oregon also may have been determined by the candidate’s position on marijuana.
Click here for the Huffington Post article which describes the story in further detail
Poll: California Residents overwhelmingly support medical marijuana but split on total legalization…
As the Los Angeles City Council is considering a ban on all dispensaries in the city, California residents should make them think twice. A new poll shows that an absolute vast majority of residents in the state support medical marijuana. Apparently, the growth of medical cannabis has not caused residents to want an end to the program. Today, the City Council may choose to shut down all of the dispensaries while allowing patients to grown their own medication. Activists say that could compromise “safe access” as many patients do not have the means or knowledge to grow safe medicine. Another plan will also be discussed that would limit the amount of legal dispensaries to 100. All of this is a temporary fix until the state supreme court issues a ruling which is expected next year. The poll also shows that Californians are mixed on recreational legalization and only 46% favored it. Interestingly enough, the rest of the country may support legalization even more than residents in California as a recent poll showed 56% of Americans were in favor. With such strong support from the people on medical marijuana but still opposition from lawmakers, an eventful year is expected.
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White House Ignores Returning Soldiers Pleas for Medical Marijuana…
It is not secret that for generations American soldiers have returned home only to fight a new internal struggle. While marijuana has showed great promise in treating PTSD symptoms, the federal government has refused to alter their position. Thousands of veterans banded together and sent in a petition requesting that the White House reconsider its stance on medical marijuana. Unfortunately they have been rejected. PTSD is a serious and often underrepresented condition. Statistics actually show that suicides are far more of a risk for military personnel as they outnumber combat deaths by a staggering 25-1 margin. Al Byrne, co-founder of the Veterans for Medical Cannabis Access (VMCA) said in response, “Vets have used cannabis for PTSD since the Revolutionary War, we know what we need and to be told by our President, the Commander in Chief, that he does not care about those he has sent to war by denying medicine to the wounded is unconscionable.”
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Strange News: Denny’s Customer tries to pay for meal with Marijuana…
Although marijuana.net is pleased with the progress the marijuana reform has made, the following story shows us why educating is so important. We encourage readers to check out our legal section and to verify the marijuana laws in your state. However, even education may not have been enough for a man in Niagara, NY. The man tried to pay for his burger and fries at a local Denny’s (approximately $10) with one dollar of acceptable United States currency, and the rest with marijuana. When employees did not accept the well thought out proposal, the man bolted for the nearby woods. Reports indicate that employees informed police of where the man lived. It is unclear as to what charges may be brought if he is caught because he did not eat any of the food and New York has decriminalized marijuana possession for amounts under 25 grams. The penalty is a civil citation carrying a maximum of a $100 fine. It is unclear if authorities will view the action more severely considering he attempted to use the marijuana in a transaction.