News & Articles
Cancer Patient denied transplant due to Medical Marijuana use
Cancer is a far reaching health issue that has probably had an impact on all of our lives at some point in time. According to Cancer.org, there are over 11,000,000 people in the United States living with invasive cancer. The site also indicates that in 2010, there were approximately 569,490 deaths caused by cancer in the United States.
The issues presented in this article are not cut and dry and will certainly not be solved in the next few paragraphs. The focus will be on Norman Smith who finds himself in an unfortunate and unique situation. Smith is in desperate need for a liver transplant. He was on a waiting list for the procedure but was taken off by doctors because Smith is a medical marijuana user and did not show up for a drug test. To get back on the waiting list, Smith would have to cease his medical marijuana use for six months and submit to drug testing. Joe Elford, Smith’s legal representative and an attorney for the well known group Americans for Safe Access stated that any additional delays could be the “difference between life and death.” Smith described his situation by saying “”I have inoperable cancer. If I don’t get a transplant, the candle’s lit and it’s a short fuse.” The United Network for Organ Sharing has indicated that there are no standard procedures on medical marijuana use and organ transplants. In this case Cedars-Sinai Medical is free to make whatever distinctions they see fit in determining this process.
This is not a simple issue as our hearts certainly are with Mr. Smith and hopefully he can receive the organ transplant in enough time to save his life. Cedar-Sinai is not in an envious position. Making the decision is much more difficult than writing about it. A sad reality is that there usually are never enough organs available to match the demand. Cedar-Sinai is likely always faced with tough choices. Standing in line next to Norman Smith may be someone who followed every regulation and is also faced with a potentially fatal scenario. Mr. Smith did not follow their laws and with missing his drug test other harmful substances in his system cannot be ruled out. However, Mr. Smith also has complications with chemotherapy and he has found relief through marijuana use. Additionally, if Cedar-Sinai considers Norman Smith to have a substance abuse problem with marijuana, then is it fair to say that this prevents him from receiving treatment? Often people think of substance abuse as out of the user’s control, so to penalize someone for that could be considered harsh.
Finally, let us not forget that it is always possible that marijuana is an unfair target. Would a coffee drinker be denied a cardiac procedure if he or she were unable to kick a Dunkin Donuts habit? Of course many would say “well marijuana is not totally legal and caffeine is.” This statement is not incorrect but that is more a matter of ink on legal documents. The comparison is still intriguing. One important fact to come out of this situation is that medical marijuana users may have to be conscious of the policies that their medical facility operates under. This is in no way to blame Mr. Smith as it likely has not occurred to many people to investigate this matter. Hopefully, future breakthroughs in stem cells or organ cloning would eliminate the debate on this topic. In the meantime, Norman Smith, we wish you the best and hopefully any attention you garner can result in a speedy recovery.
Newt Gingrich Clear on Opposition to Medical Marijuana
Cult excitement often accompanies those who rail against the status quo. Maintaining one’s principles in the face of a disagreeing majority can be quite difficult. In politics, it seems that candidates often champion this idea. Then they can acquire nicknames like “maverick” and “cowboy” if voters are convinced they are not scared to take a hard stand. However, ignoring the wishes of the majority may not be a prudent choice when seeking public office.
Newt Gingrich has seen a rise in the polls lately as he attempts the long journey toward the United States presidency. Mr. Gingrich has used the reliable justification for his current stance on medical marijuana, the children. He was recently quoted as saying “What has changed was the number of parents I met with who said they did not want their children to get the signal from the government that it was acceptable behavior.” He also went on to call medical marijuana in California “a joke” and went even further to call medical marijuana a convenience. Thousands of patients would likely respond by saying there is nothing “convenient” about debilitating conditions that are relieved by marijuana. Gingrich also went on to say he was seeking stricter penalties for marijuana users and that he would like the government to take a more aggressive stance in marijuana enforcement. This obviously is in contrast with the rest of Americans and recent polls show approximately 80% of the country supports medical marijuana. Additionally, most of the GOP is seeking to reduce our nation’s debt and save money where possible. Directing additional tax dollars toward the war on drugs may be hard to sell to the American people.
Mr. Gingrich also went on to applaud Singapore’s harsh legal system. Such praise could result in a political backfire. Much of the world has pleaded for Singapore to alter their harsh stance on law enforcement. Under Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act, marijuana possession of 500 grams requires use of the death penalty. In 1994 former President Bill Clinton tried to negotiate a lighter sentence for 18 year old American Michael Fay when he was convicted of vandalism while in Singapore. Fay received six bamboo cane strikes and served four months in jail. Gingrich has also recently said, in regards to Singapore that, “They’ve been very draconian. And they have communicated with great intention that they intend to stop drugs from coming into their country.” He also stated that he would execute members of the Mexican drug cartel. Members of the Mexican drug cartel certainly do not deserve any sympathy , but perhaps that violent line of thinking has not served our country well in the 40 year war on drugs. Instead of more gunfire many Americans now want to phase the cartel out by regulation and decriminalization, in turn making their function obsolete. Cartel members can still be tried in court and face whatever penalties are appropriate. Newt Gingrich’s recent comments on medical marijuana come as a surprise to many political analysts. During the 1980’s, he wrote a letter that supported the use of medical marijuana in the March 19, 1982 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. The following paragraph is an exact quote from his letter and is in stark contrast with his recent statements:
“We believe licensed physicians are competent to employ marijuana, and patients have a right to obtain marijuana legally, under medical supervision, from a regulated source. The medical prohibition does not prevent seriously ill patients from employing marijuana; it simply deprives them of medical supervision and denies them access to a regulated medical substance. Physicians are often forced to choose between their ethical responsibilities to the patient and their legal liabilities to federal bureaucrats.” There does not seem to be any praise for draconian laws here and he certainly no mention of him viewing medical marijuana as a joke. Click here for the full letter
Newt Gingrich’s timing for his policy shifts is baffling. When the momentum for medical marijuana was very low he was supportive and now that the country overwhelmingly supports it he has changed his stance. The only comparable situation is the behavior of a child who is just trying to be difficult. Is Newt Gingrich just trying to gauge the American public and take the opposite stand? As a veteran of the American political landscape there must be some other reason. His behavior seems politically motivated and perhaps even strategic against Mitt Romney. Many believe that Mitt Romney will ultimately win the Republican nomination for 2012. However, former Governor Romney’s perceived weakness pertains to his popularity with ultra conservatives. Whatever the rationale is for his position change on medical marijuana, it is clear that part of his strategy is definitely aimed at painting Mitt Romney as too moderate. At a recent town hall meeting Mr. Gingrich went out of his way to mention that he was more conservative than Mitt Romney. The primaries usually see candidates reach to the far left or right wing in order to shore up support, then gradually inch their way back toward the middle of the political spectrum. Newt Gingrich may have to stand behind these harsh and possibly very unpopular views of medical marijuana. If that is the case many libertarians, economists, and independent voters may be turned off to his candidacy. Backing off these statements may not sit well with his conservative base, a group he may ultimately need on his journey toward the presidency.
Great Video Introduction To Marijuana Legalisation From MSNBC
Marijuana is not the taboo it was previously within the U . s . States. Recent polling shows an archive number of individuals (50%) think it ought to totally be legalized while polls indicate that more than 75% of the nation is in support of medicinal marijuana. Time for serious discussion must have happened already and it is now clearly past due. Below is a superb and quick video breakdown around the current status of marijuana within the U . s . States.
 
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.”
 
For additional about this story click this link
 
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.
La City Councilman Proposes Prohibit on Marijuana Shops
Like a nation it seems we’re very unclear about what we should want legally. Political figures always appear to be a re-election campaign and don’t desire to join the countless unemployed People in america. They want to do something and grab head lines and put their mark on any political situation.
The protections granted to citizens of California through the 1996 Compassionate Use Act might be in danger. Also called Proposition 215, this law guaranteed marijuana’s safe use of patients. Councilman Jose Huizar features a motion to prohibit all shops until condition courts can resolve the problem. Councilman Huizar feels that shops are opening their doorways throughout and also the industry may grow past the city’s control. The town should consider an accreditation process for shops. Organizations like GLACA curently have associated with shops such as the following strict recommendations and hold patient safety and also the law like a priority.
Whether it prohibit provides any legal clarification is unclear. Many agree that some shops aren’t motivated by serving patients and following rules. However, even when Councilman Huizar is attempting to repair an problem, the opportunity of extended lawsuit might just complicate matters. Mr. Huizar feels the condition needs examine laws and regulations and hang more stringent rules for shops. Wouldso would a prohibit that will face numerous legal cases provide any legal clearness? Furthermore it’s not obvious how condition courts will see the problem. Despite the fact that Federal raids appear to possess produced momentum for local political figures to enforce restrictions, a condition judge ruled 2 yrs ago that rules restricting new shops in La wasn’t valid. This doesn’t always guarantee how justices will rule later on however it does indicate at the minimum a split view within the state’s judicial people.
We’ll update this story as occasions unfold. People from around the globe have started to La looking for medical relief. Our prime density of patients will probably need to be taken into consideration. Even when the town council does enact a prohibit (it’s not obvious the way they will election) then citizens can get a lengthy and attracted out legal fight. Consequently, this may lead to no movement around the situation before the legal aspects are completed. Any prohibit might be temporary before the courts problem a binding decision. Additionally, you should be aware from the ongoing and lengthy struggle for patients regarding federal law. California is exposed to raids because federal law supersedes California condition law. Likewise, California condition law must take priority over city law. California’s marijuana law might be looking for some clarification only one statement happens to be obvious. Proposition 215 pulls no punches and it is very direct in stating an assurance for patient’s safe access.
 
Copenhagen On Your Journey To Marijuana Legalisation
We’d list all the nations with legalized marijuana (not medical, not decriminalized) but in some way I do need to fill this site track of words. Obviously, you will find many regions who don’t even enforce marijuana laws and regulations and also have been very active in decriminalization but so far as what the law states books are worried it seems 3 major nations permit marijuana possession (Uruguay, Peru) that’s not particularly for medical consumption.
Denmark might be joining this small list since it’s capital, Copenhagen , is exploring the thought of legalizing marijuana. Inside a election 39-9, the town council approved a stride which will generate a committee to understand more about the proper way to implement a method where marijuana is taxed and controlled. A safe industry appears to become the biggest concern from the Danish government. Mikkel Warming, a councilman who manages the Social Matters Committee, mentioned “Who is it more beneficial our kids have to to purchase marijuana from? A medication pusher, who desires these to use more, who desires these to buy hard drugs, or perhaps a civil servant?. This kind of approach continues to be lengthy preferred by advocates within the U . s . States. Denmark is accepting exactly what is a reality. People do look for marijuana and getting an agenda to handle the situation accordingly is vital, rather than beginning wars and pointing tax revenue toward incarceration.
The town of Copenhagen and Denmark in general is going to be under a powerful public microscope whenever they legalize marijuana. Detractors points out any negative story connected with marijuana in Copenhagen and gone with it, while advocates will champion any positive news that arrives from the Denmark cannabis industry. Individuals on any side from the problem may grow fed up with hearing every update from Copenhagen. Even issues where there’s a consensus will discover disagreement. Most would agree that Copenhagen stands to get quite the tourism boost when they follow-through with this particular proposal. Many will view this as great economic news, while some might find a wide open invitation to a different “Sin City”.
The storyline from Copenhagen comes at any given time when many nations appear to become going for a new approach toward marijuana reform. Israel has approved a medicinal marijuana program, Chile’s top court lately ruled in support of a medicinal marijuana company and momentum appears to become building in Canada. Many of these nations have good relations using the U . s . States for it to be interesting to notice the way we react to these developments. Regardless of the fallout is, the actual question to request is whether or not Denmark will eagerly run using the torch or unwillingly end up being the worldwide core marijuana discussion.
Study: Wise People More prone to Use Marijuana
Are you looking for that Oscars to begin thinking about movies like “Harold and Kumar visit Whitened Castle” and “Pineapple Express” seriously for Oscar contention because of their overwhelming fan support? Or has Hollywood recognized that marijuana customers will also be prone to enjoy movies like “The King’s Speech”, “No Country For Old Men”, or “Slumdog Millionaire”? Regardless of the situation, new information should convince launch new speaking points and actually eliminate old stereotypes formerly accustomed to inaccurately illustrate the marijuana community in general.
Research conducted recently released within the December problem of Epidemiology and Community Health might have created results which are surprising with a. The research established that people with greater IQs as youngsters are 50% more prone to have attempted illegal drugs. The study was carried out within the U.K. and examined is a result of 8,000 people. More scientific studies are likely expected in this region and lots of is going to be eager to ascertain if such results could be created within the U . s . States.
This isn’t to state that any drug could make us wiser. However there appears to become a link between intelligence and also the need to alter awareness. Based on the study’s conclusion, “High childhood IQ could raise the chance of illegal drug abuse in adolescence and their adult years.” Although this is just one study, the requirement for further scientific studies are apparent. The hyperlink between substance use and intelligence is extremely thought invoking and might be even crucial for the development. We know our brains have natural receptors for THC. What else will research uncover concerning the relationship between intelligent people and substance use?
This research is among many who demonstrate how lengthy-held marijuana misconceptions are outdated and falling faster than Netflix stock. Other studies have uncovered that medicinal marijuana customers tend to be more educated, more frequently employed and take less sick days at the office. If marijuana customers truly are a wise group in general, will our popular culture start to be affected by it or will the forces that be continue to speak with us like misleading children and then increase the false propaganda that almost all marijuana customers are unintelligent, unmotivated and undesirable?
Medical Marijuana Industry News November 25, 2011
Proposed Medical Marijuana Legislation Sits in Both Chambers of Florida Government
Following up Jeff Clemens Florida House Resolution 353, Sen. Larcenia Bullard introduced Senate Joint Resolution 1028 several days ago. The potential for legal medical marijuana in Florida is still low because three fifths approval of the Florida legislature is required for the issue to hit the ballots. Passage of these laws would result in protection from prosecution for patients, caregivers, and physicians. Patients with children would be protected and not risk custody loss unless their behavior creates “an unreasonable danger”. The battle appears to be a tough one for advocates to win as they are currently 600,000 signatures short of getting it on the ballot, even if they were to survive the legislative process.
For more on this topic click here
Marijuana Vanity Plate Not a Hit with Nebraska Government
A resident in Nebraska was trying to promote something a little different than what is usually on a vanity license plate. Frank Shoemaker was not interested in a Cornhusker or other sports team vanity plate. He requested “NE 420”. Shoemaker is leading a petition drive toward a ballot measure that would legalize marijuana. The director of the DMV, Beverly Neth, felt that it was promoting the use of a drug that is illegal in Nebraska and refused to issue the plate. The ACLU threatened to sue Nebraska’s Department of Motor Vehicle on the grounds that Shoemaker’s free speech was being compromised. Nebraska ACLU director Amy Miller stated “It’s purely political speech relating to a current ballot initiative. ” The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals has previously ruled that license plates are an appropriate place for personal expression. The Nebraska DMV has since relented and granted Shoemaker the license plate.
Nederlander Police Raid Cannabis Cup 2011
In the World Cup, towards the Stanley Cup, towards the Ultimate Goal, cups have loved a dominant role in history. Most are presented towards the victorious within an honorable and ceremonious manor. Using the 24th Annual High Occasions Cannabis Cup now, participants from around the globe were wishing for any fun competition.
Unlike the upbeat vibe associated the prior occasions, the atmosphere was tossed off target when a large number of police demonstrated to conduct a raid. The big event was split up and all sorts of participants were needed to depart. High Times’ site reported on Wednesday (11/23) the event would resume. The website also continued to state that reviews indicated there is a quarrel on the permit application. There has been no updates since, therefore we not able to verify when the event began support.
While there’s been a change in Nederlander lawmaker’s sentiment on marijuana enforcement, the very first raid within the event’s 24 year history is surprising. The Cannabis Cup in Amsterdam seems to possess bumpy road later on too. New laws and regulations are going to result in the purchase of marijuana within the Netherlands illegal to non Nederlander people. This appears basically assured to place the event’s worldwide appeal in serious risk.
Even though the cup may face some uncertainty in Amsterdam, the big event will certainly survive. Location isn’t likely to derail the large worldwide enthusiasm produced in the Cannabis Cup. A town somewhere would like for hosting the affair and reap the economical advantages of vacationers. Even when the big event remains in Amsterdam, format changes may have the ability to keep your spirit from the Cannabis Cup intact. Furthermore, political actions frequently are available in waves. If reduced tourism is caused by the brand new marijuana laws and regulations, it could actually come with an adverse impact on a previously slowing down Nederlander economy. Momentum could swing rapidly toward rebuilding the cup’s tradition.