Pot
Legal Updates On Medical Marijuana
Marijuana.net is hopeful that everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. Getting together with friends and family is always important, as is remembering those who have fought hard for our freedom, and those who are less fortunate. We would like to take this time to mention some of the legal updates that came to light toward the end of last week, over the weekend and yesterday.
While North Dakota is often more recognized for the Coen Brother’s classic film “Fargo”, marijuana activists are trying to have the state join a very high profile group. Activists are attempting to run a ballot initiative, which would see North Dakota become the 18th state to permit marijuana use for patients. State Rep. Steve Zaiser (D-Fargo), is chairman of the campaign and recently stated “Marijuana has proven that it has helped people, and doctors will testify to that effect, I don’t want any more North Dakotans to suffer unnecessarily.” The initiative was submitted to Secretary of State Al Jaeger last week. There will have to be 13,452 signatures collected from eligible voters in North Dakota in order for the issue to come to a vote in November.
We also learned about some good news coming out of Arizona. Unfortunately, Arizona often provides negative or legally baffling news, however we are pleased to see that after a tumultuous start the medical marijuana program there is looking to help even more patients. The law passed in 2010 actually requires that the Department of Health Services officially considers requests to expand the programs coverage. The law may soon allow medical cannabis to be used for migraines and PTSD. Other states, such as Colorado have declined to expand their programs for PTSD. However, as more studies and testimonials are revealed that show PTSD symptoms being aided by cannabis, the momentum seems to be mounting.
Arizona and Governor Jan Brewer has taken a great deal of political heat over the past few years. Thankfully, their medical marijuana laws are more progressive than other states in certain areas. Our duty to provide compassion to one another is taking a deeper hold on us than our blue and red politics. Relief is unaware of what side of the political aisle it sits on. Only a few years ago many would have laughed at the prospect of medical marijuana in North Dakota. It is not clear if the law will pass there (voters in South Dakota have previously voted down the issue previously) but it seems no longer possible to assume that any state will just downright dismiss marijuana reform.
Marijuana.net Observes Memorial Day
Most of us enjoy our barbecues and three day holiday weekends. However, it often seems we can lose track of exactly why we have fired up the grill and cracked those cans of beer open. The first (and often most fun) of the summer national holidays is here and Marijuana.net would like to take this time to do what was initially intended.
Memorial Day was created in order to remember the Union troops during the American Civil War and was originally known as Decoration Day. While Confederates also had their own day for their soldiers, eventually it would all be combined for a federally recognized national holiday honoring all of America’s fallen troops. With the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan still ongoing, as well as other military operations, we feel it is important that we take the time to think about all of those men and women away from home.
While we need to acknowledge our soldiers who gave their lives, some have returned from war still having paid too high a price. We have spoken to so many returning soldiers who gladly gave everything they had only to return home to a social landscape that prevents them from seeking relief. Cannabis has demonstrated a wonderful potential to alleviate returning soldier’s PTSD symptoms. Reintegrating back into the society they sought to protect is not always easy and everything should be done to make their transition as easy as possible. We also want to bring patient awareness as many can only enjoy the holiday fun because of marijuana’s ability to reduce pain and improve their quality of life. Some can enjoy today’s barbecue because their nausea has dissipated while others may throw the baseball around because their joint pain has subsided.
Unfortunately, in this country patients are often engulfed in their own war. As government refuses to respect state laws, patients often have to fight social stigmas, and closing dispensaries in their war for safe access. Memorial Day was set up to remember soldiers, but we would like to expand that to anyone who is sick or struggling, as not all wars are fought with firearms. Memorial Day has always been about solemn reflection and while it is absolutely appropriate to have some fun this weekend we feel that the true spirit may have gotten lost in a sea of hopps, barley, and chicken wings. We just ask that everyone take a second and raise the beer they are already holding up high, and make a toast to think of our returning soldiers, our elderly, our patients, and each other.
Medical Marijuana Industry News May 25, 2012
Andy Caffrey Plans to Smoke Marijuana in front of U.S. Capitol if he wins election…
A marijuana patient and activist is seeking to win the congressional seat for California’s 2nd district which includes much of the northern region of the state. Andy Caffrey has been known to light up a joint during his campaign stops. If elected he has vowed to continue the tradition on the steps of the United States Capitol building. The district has been occupied by long time law maker Wally Herger (R-CA) since 1987. Earlier this year, Mr. Herger announced that he would not be seeking re-election in November. Caffrey is hoping that he can win the soon to be vacant seat by advocating for major changes in marijuana law and voiced his frustration with both Republicans and Democrats. The race will be interesting as many hats have been thrown into the race with almost all of them supporting legalized or medical marijuana. Caffrey has spent previous time working with the environmental group Earth First.
For more on this story click here
Appeals Court Rejects Medical Marijuana Suit by Disabled Plaintiffs…
Struggling patients were not granted the compassion they were seeking by federal courts. A lawsuit was filed against California (Marla James vs. the City of Costa Mesa) cities for cracking down on marijuana dispensaries. The plaintiffs claimed the actions of city municipalities were in direct violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The plaintiffs who are legal marijuana card holders say that other treatments have failed to reduce pain. The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination in providing public services. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seemed to sympathize with the plaintiffs but felt they could not offer protection because the Americans with Disabilities Act recognizes federal law instead of state legislation.
For more on this story and the court’s decision click here
US Judge says GPS Use in Marijuana Bust Illegal…
The Drug Enforcement Agency followed Robert Dale Lee by installing a GPS device on his truck. In September of last year, Kentucky State Troopers pulled over Lee already having vital info provided by the GPS. Lee arrived in Kentucky with over 150 pounds of marijuana in his truck from Chicago. A US judge is throwing out the case because the DEA failed to get a warrant before installing the GPS. In January, the United States Supreme court ruled against the DEA having permission to use GPS locators without a warrant.
United States Senate Officially Outlaws Synthetic Cannabis…
While the outlawing of synthetic cannabis pretty much was handled several months ago by the US Senate, it is now official. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) previously objected to the legislation but now the Senate is finally able to move forward. A bill was also passed by the house toward the end of 2011. Both bills will likely be combined and then be presented to the president for his signature. Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) has led the federal charge against synthetic cannabis. Synthetic marijuana products such as “K2” and “Spice” have come under fire as they have been linked with serious side effects and emergency room visits, especially by teenagers.
Poll: Marijuana Legalization is now Supported by Majority of Americans
While the past decade has seen a tremendous shift in the American attitude toward medical marijuana, overall legalization was something many analysts did not expect the country to embrace just yet. In regards to marijuana, many have always felt change would come slowly. For the activists in the 1940s through the mid 1990s, progress moved at a glacial pace. Even after California changed the course of history in 1996, many analysts dismissed the newly legalized medical marijuana program as a fad that would quickly fade. The previous decade proved just how far removed from the truth such sentiments were, but still, even some of the most passionate advocates held little faith in how quick Americans would change their view on legalizing recreational cannabis use.
Gallop has been asking participants since 1969 year on whether or not they feel that marijuana should be legal. When the poll was first conducted only 12% of respondents agreed with legalizing cannabis. In 1978 Gallop found that 21% of respondents said they welcomed the acceptance of marijuana. This would drop again in the 1980s to 13% and as low as 11% in 1991. History will show that the efforts of Dennis Peron only 5 years after such a low point for marijuana acceptance was nothing short of a modern political miracle. The public did not have all of the facts and many snickered at the idea of marijuana being used to improve quality of life for struggling patients. Since 2002, support for marijuana legalization has steadily been climbing, and now for the first since polling began, a majority of Americans now support legalizing recreational marijuana use and wish to see it regulated in a similar way to alcohol and tobacco. Click here for more information on the most recent poll on marijuana legalization, which now stands at a record high of 56%.
Much of the time marijuana activists focus has been on the 40 year old war on drugs launched by President Richard Nixon. Interestingly enough marijuana acceptance’s lowest point was only about 20 years ago, not 40 or 50 years ago, making the change in sentiment that much more pronounced. Shifts on many social issues show a new generation’s impact on the electorate and more awareness for previously eligible voters. It seems government officials may have overreached as people seem to be embracing a more libertarian attitude and are seeking for the government to stay out of personal decisions. They are no longer looking up to the men in suits for approval on how they conduct their daily lives. Additionally we are in the age of communication where stories can be shared around the world instantaneously.
Between the 1960s and 1990s individuals who tried marijuana still responded negatively in polls and viewed it as a significant problem. Perhaps they were made to feel guilty by society or assumed serious behavior/health problems would follow if they had continued to use cannabis. Now with an abundance of scientific information, patients testimonials, and a reminder that over 40 years later, the Woodstock generation still cannot recall anyone who died from cannabis use, the facts are taking control of the argument. With multigenerational support for marijuana reform the conversation has shifted from “if” to “when”.
Bruce Margolin’s Congressional Run Brings Hope for Marijuana Patients and Activists
To the dismay of some of our elected officials, marijuana reform is moving higher on the list of voter priorities. President Obama has has been dogged by questions regarding what appears to be a shift in his marijuana enforcement position. More recently, voters showed that they are no longer willing to tolerate the failed 40 year war on drugs and elected retired judge Ellen Rosenblum, a huge supporter of marijuana rights.
High profile attorney and longtime ally of the marijuana movement, Bruce Margolin, provides even more hope for those seeking a common sense approach to cannabis law. Margolin announced last month that he would be running for California’s 33rd Congressional district. This district covers the Los Angeles’ coastal area and many feel the district could benefit tremendously from Mr. Margolin’s leadership. He is running on a platform that seeks changes in many key areas such as immigration reform, economic fairness, and defending civil liberties.
Bruce Margolin also has a long track record for defending patients and activists. He has lent his assistance to individuals involved with marijuana cases for over 40 years. On his legal website 1800420laws.com, Mr. Margolin directly states his view on marijuana by saying “NO ONE belongs in jail for marijuana.” He also has served as a director of Los Angeles chapter of NORML for 29 years, contributing to so much of the progress in the marijuana reform movement. His long track record in marijuana law has made him the premiere legal expert on cannabis law in the United States.
With the injection of Super Pacs on an already polarized nation, the 2012 election already had the makings of a historic and nasty election. Additionally, there will be at least two states (Washington, and Colorado) and possibly others where residents will have the opportunity to vote on legalizing recreational marijuana use. Bruce Margolin is entering the congressional race at the perfect time. Patients, marijuana activists, immigrants, same sex couples and so many others desperately need representation in this political climate where federal authorities are still intent on violating our freedoms.
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.
New Yorkers Reaffirm Support For Medical Marijuana
Residents of the Empire State may not have legal medical marijuana in their state, but there certainly seems to be momentum to change that. New Yorkers are known for speaking their mind and they certainly are not afraid to share their opinion in polls, especially when it comes to medical marijuana.
Northeast patients overall have received a great deal of good news recently. With New Jersey finally making progress on opening dispensaries, Connecticut passing laws to permit medical marijuana, and Rhode Island also set to open marijuana dispensaries, the quality of life in the northeast should be improving for many. While New York is the typically the trendsetter in fashion and night life, they may actually be copycats when it comes to compassionate relief. The momentum from other states in the northeast seems to be spilling over into New York. Recently, 74% of New Yorkers told Mason-Dixon Polling & Research pollsters that they want to see an end to federal raids on marijuana collectives and respect state laws.
This matches previous polls which show an overwhelming amount of New York residents are in favor of medical marijuana. The message seems to have been received by lawmakers as Governor Andrew Cuomo seems to be shifting his position on the issue. On the campaign trail for the 2010 race for governor he took a very rigid stance against medical cannabis. He had very harsh words for proponents of medical marijuana and said “The dangers of medical marijuana outweigh the benefits.” When asked about its potential to raise revenue candidate Cuomo said “A lot of things could raise revenues. Legalizing prostitution could raise revenues. I’m against that, too.” Much seems to have changed since 2010 as comparing medical cannabis to prostitution may be a thing of the past. Only months later the governor said “We’re looking at both sides of the issue if you will and we’re reviewing it, but we don’t have a final position.” Last month his position evolved even more as Governor Cuomo stated I understand there’s more research and there’s more evidence, and it can always be re-evaluated. I don’t believe there’s going to be time this legislative session to look at that issue.
Andrew Cuomo is a seasoned second generation politician. Perhaps he is looking ahead and unwilling to pick a fight on an issue that has the support of an overwhelming amount of some of the most outspoken voters in the country.
Medical Marijuana Industry News May 18, 2012
Retired Judge in Oregon Defeats Anti-Marijuana U.S. Attorney in AG Primary…
With the help of passionate marijuana activists, Former Oregon Court of Appeals judge Ellen Rosenblum won the Democratic primary for Attorney General in Oregon by defeating U.S. Attorney Dwight Holton. So far the Republicans have not put forth a candidate so it very possible that Rosenblum has all but won the position of Attorney General and will run uncontested in November. Marijuana reform took on a very important role in the race. Judge Rosenblum is a supporter of marijuana reform efforts while Attorney Holton has taken a very rigid stance on the issue. He has been a supporter of federal raids on dispensaries. Supporters of marijuana reform (55,000 registered patients in Oregon) were thought to have been a major reason for Rosenblum’s victory. Advocates in Oregon are hoping the sweeping victory by Ellen Rosenblum will send a message to federal authorities. Marijuana.net will be following up on this story .
New Poll: About Three Quarters of Americans want to see an end to Marijuana Raids…
Marijuana.net has cited polls that indicate that the vast majority of Americans support a physician’s right to prescribe medical marijuana. This sentiment was further confirmed as new polls asked respondents about their views on the recent federal crackdown and raids of marijuana dispensaries. The poll showed that 74% of Americans are hoping to see an end to the raids. Larry Harris, a principal with Mason-Dixon Polling & Research said “These results are consistent with the clear and growing body of evidence that documents substantial voter support for the legalization of medical marijuana.” Steve Fox of the Marijuana Policy Project agreed and said, “The results of this survey demonstrate that there is virtually no support in the country for the Obama administration’s crackdown on state medical marijuana laws.” Many analysts felt the Obama administration had indicated that they would take on a softer approach toward medical marijuana when the president was elected.
For more on this story click here
Rhode Island Patients may finally see Dispensaries Open…
Rhode Island lawmakers finally seem ready to allow the medical marijuana dispensaries to start serving patients. In 2006, a law was passed that permitted patients to grow and possess their own marijuana (up to 12 plants and 2.5 ounces). Momentum has been building to open dispensaries as not all patients have the resources and ability to cultivate their own cannabis. Last year 3 dispensaries were expected to open before Governor Lincoln Chafee stopped the process after U.S. Attorney Peter Neronha threatened Rhode Island with federal intervention. Governor Chafee then worked with lawmakers to create a new law in hopes that it would be set up to satisfy federal authorities. The Governor is now expected to sign a new law that was recently passed by state lawmakers granting permission for the dispensaries to open. U.S. Attorney Peter Neronha has not given up and stated the Department of Justice is still concerned with “large-scale commercial cultivation and distribution” of marijuana.
For more on this story click here
Medical Marijuana Grower shopping at Walmart has more to Fear than Federal Raids…
Mica Craig holds a license to grow marijuana in Washington State. It is likely that he often worries of the federal crackdown and raids coming to his neighborhood. However, at a recent trip to Walmart he quickly realized he had far more immediate concerns. While shopping for mulch in the garden section of the controversial superstore, he was bitten by a rattlesnake. Craig was released from the hospital but had to return shortly after when his hand swelled up. He said “They got all the poison out of me but they don’t know how bad the muscle damage will be.” Although Craig’s job as a marijuana grower may not have been relevant to the snake attack, Walmart (whose problems seem to be mounting) cannot be thrilled to hear about another negative and high profile story hurting its reputation. The mega store famously fired employee Joseph Casias for using medical marijuana in accordance with Michigan state law. He also has battled a brain tumor and sinus cancer and feels that he needs to use cannabis to deal with his medical issues. He is considered to be a model employee and received the 2008 Associate of the Year at the store he worked in. The ACLU is working hard to help Casias.
Proposed Marijuana DUI Law in Colorado Fails
One of the major hurdles in the marijuana reform movement is how to enforce driving laws. With alcohol, there is a clear system that most people understand with tests that are not likely to turn up false positives. Testing drivers for recent marijuana use, however, has proved to be much more difficult.
Recently marijuana.net ran a story about a proposed law in Colorado that would set a limit as to how much THC could legally be permitted in a drivers system. Initially the bill to regulate marijuana DUI was passed by Colorado lawmakers by one vote, 18-17, two weeks ago. However, politics is often unpredictable and one of the bills major proponents, Nancy Spence was unable to make it to Tuesday’s vote. She was out of state attending a grandchild’s birthday party. Ms. Spence was urged to return quickly by her constituents but she expected the vote to take place a day later. Everyone voted identically as they did two weeks prior, except for Nancy Spence’s absent vote which killed the legislation and resulted in a 17-17 tie.
Critics and opponents have long been seeking a system to test if marijuana patients are suitable to take the wheel. Nationally, it would probably result in even more support (though over 70% of Americans already support medical marijuana) and maybe even by the government if safety measures were taken to ensure driver safety. However, the proposed law in Colorado seemed to be set entirely too low. It would appear that patients would face penalties who were not under the influence of marijuana. The 5 nanogram limit, as stated by Colorado lawmaker Pat Steadman may not work because “Some of these people wake up in the morning and roll out of bed at 5 nanograms.” In response to the vote yesterday, he mentioned that he thought the bill would do nothing to make the roads safer.
While the future of the industry may be very much intertwined with a standard system for analyzing marijuana DUI, we are pleased to see that vulnerable and innocent patients will not be arrested even when they are not impaired to operate a motor vehicle. This law will likely come up again as it has failed 3x already. Hopefully a more commonsense approach is utilized for what appears to be an inevitable law.
Artist finds outlet and more through medical marijuana with Kushed Out Fashions
As with any social movement, art is always a very important element. It serves as an outlet for self expression, social messages and can depict much more than just words. As we at marijuana.net have now attended many gatherings in the community and have noticed that artists play a very large role in the tone and mood of the events.
Recently, we were fortunate enough to meet Marie from Kushed Out Fashions at the 2012 Denver High Times Medical Marijuana Cannabis Cup. Marie put her talents on display as she drew a beautiful cannabis plant on our “I Medicate Because” sign. While the marijuana leaf has assumed a very symbolic role in our culture, Marie appreciates the entire plant for all of its beauty and creates much richer work that focuses on much more than a simple leaf.
After meeting at the Cannabis Cup, we decided to try and speak to Marie more about her Kushed Out Fashions. Kushed Out Fashions has been around since 2005. As we know, much has changed over the course of 7 years. With new states and new access for patients, marijuana has been able to shed much of its unfairly negative perception due to decades of false propaganda. When Marie first started her business many of her closest friends and relatives were not entirely supportive. She was often told she should pursue a more traditional career path. Marie did try this at first and was very close to becoming an air traffic controller but soon realized that this would never satisfy her artistic desires. Now, 7 years later, many in her close circle have applauded the unconventional choices she has made.
Kushed Out Fashions offers a variety of products including Shirts, Booty Shorts, Bags, Dresses, Cardigans, Blazers and more. Marie has demonstrated her varied skill set with her sister site, prettystoney.com, which features products such as Bracelets, earrings, hair extensions, chains, necklaces, rings, hemp jewelry, and scarves. Her products are personally handmade and are uniquely one of a kind. However besides products, as readers will see at the bottom of this article, Marie also showcases her talent with beautiful drawings. She has plans to launch a magazine named kushinformer.com. Marie would also like to see more creativity and flow return to hip-hop and plans on pursuing this in the future.
We at marijuana.net are not the only ones impressed with her work. Marie says that she has people approach her and tell her that they wear her t-shirts several times per week. Recently, at a cultural event a fan told her that she had not taken off her prettystoney earrings in over a year. Some high profile individuals have also taken notice. Marie is proudly supported by famous wrestlers Rob Van Dam and Booker T, plus the iconic rappers Redman and B-Real of Cypress Hill. Kushed Out Fashions is also included on the widely popular slang website www.urbandictionary.com. Additionally, readers are encouraged to check her out in the April 2012 edition of Skunk Magazine.
Marijuana.net believes the future is bright for marijuana. Marie told us she also feels this way. She has seen so many patients ease their pain. Education and relief are overwhelming the empty propaganda. However artists can accelerate this process as one picture can say much more than an entire article. Marijuana.net will be featuring other artists in the near future.
Below is another great example of Marie’s artwork.
You can also check out these links which show off some of Marie’s great products