Rhode Island
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.
Busy ACLU Makes Time For Medical Marijuana Rights
The ACLU almost always has a lot on their plate as they regularly step up to defend those who without a voice. They are known for shedding light on issues that often involve racial, gender, financial inequalities. They have also been a friend to the medical marijuana movement and this month alone have really expanded their efforts.
Several weeks ago the ACLU announced it would be filing a lawsuit against the Rhode Island Department of Health. The suit was filed because the department has stopped accepting medical marijuana applications that have signed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants. For many sick patients, getting an appointment and traveling to see the doctor can be difficult. The move by the Department of Health may severely restrict access for vulnerable patients. JoAnne Leppanen of The Rhode Island Patient Advocacy Coalition agreed and said ‘‘What the health department has done is put up another barrier, basically pulling the rug out from under the patients.’’
Moving over to the other side of the country, the ACLU is also trying to bring awareness to medical marijuana in Montana. Last night they screened the documentary “The Code of the West” which highlights the political debates regarding marijuana in Montana. The film deals with a host of issues including medical marijuana’s benefits, the division among Montana residents on the issue and the upcoming vote on IR 124. If Montana residents vote to pass IR 124, then they would see the 2004 medical marijuana law repealed.
The ACLU is urging Montana residents to vote “no” on IR 124. In the height of political season, the ACLU has many important issues to deal with. The group is also busy trying to fight efforts to suppress the vote. However, as marijuana.net stated on Monday, it is encouraging to see that major news outlets (60 Minutes ran a story on Colorado’s medical marijuana program on Sunday Night) and activists groups are still fighting for marijuana reform even many other issues grabbing the headlines.
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!
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.
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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.
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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.
California and Colorado try New Approach toward Marijuana Law
As increasing numbers of details are revealed concerning the fall’s federal raids of medicinal marijuana shops, it’s becoming obvious that advocates have to take with an alternate approach. Although supporters of medicinal marijuana are equipped with solid details, the effective minority within our government isn’t prepared to admit defeat. U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder lately stated that recent raids were targeted at shops who weren’t in compliance with condition law. This could explain why there has been states going for a more organized approach toward safeguarding medicinal marijuana patients from the us government.
Based on a current article from MercuryNews.com, advocates in California are trying to find to institute a state-wide certification system for controlling the medicinal marijuana program. This could setup uniform screening systems for shops and patients. It might also create a far more structured tax code. People in america For Safe Access are leading the ballot initiative and believe that California often see less federal intervention when the condition implements these new rules. When the process goes well, California would create “The Board of Medicinal Marijuana Enforcement” which may oversee the non-profit companies creating, selling and lab testing the strains.
California isn’t alone within their new method for 2012. Colorado has implemented a state-wide license system. Additionally, Colorado makes a proper request towards the DEA to re-classify marijuana. When the DEA finally relented and accomplished it, states will not have to choose from following federal law and supplying relief to the citizens. Two governors from Rhode Island and Washington Condition have previously made such formal demands. Barbara Brohl, mind of The Colorado Department of Revenue authored the request which incorporated the next statement “As lengthy as there’s divergence in condition and federal law, there’s deficiencies in certainty essential to provide safe access for patients with serious health conditions.Inch
Even though the DEA hasn’t behaved on such demands previously there appears to become momentum as states have finished the legislative conflict between condition and federal law. Civil privileges issues previously have proven that it takes only a couple of brave pioneers to stimulate massive change. We’re now seeing more states setup systems that goal to safeguard their sufferers. Colorado’s program will probably function as a model for most of the already established states with medicinal marijuana, along with the 6 others with pending legislation. Since there three states presently asking for reclassification of cannabis, more are certain to join.
Two Governors seek Federal Reclassification of Marijuana
 
The legislative process within the U . s . States can help remind us of difficult family dynamics. You will find different opinions regarding how to handle a specific situation and also the debates frequently escalate into arguments. Within the legal world, just like a family structure, you will find unyielding people who won’t pay a new or even more progressive approach if this involves Medicinal Marijuana. Marijuana reform continues to be postponed for many years because of anxiety when progression just like a grandfather declining to simply accept the behaviour of the generation which has passed him by.
While you will find some in lawmaking positions who wish to keep that old notion that marijuana destroys lives, (actually the life is usually only destroyed after unnecessary incarceration, drug war casualties, or denial of drugs) many more are attempting to get grand daddy to calm lower, switch off “Leave it to Beaver”, and believe that a brand new discussion must occur. The brand new conversation a minimum of must be in Technicolor (where available) and even perhaps progress toward hd. Independent Lincoln subsequently Chafee of Rhode Island and Democrat Christine Gregoire of Washington are a couple of governors seeking a far more modern method of marijuana enforcement. Particularly, they’re seeking a re-classification of cannabis which presently continues to be an agenda I drug. This places it within the same grouping as heroin or ecstasy, and many particularly not cocaine. Based on the Controlled Substances Act, cocaine has significant medical value and consequently, likes an agenda II classification. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Mind and Neck Surgery views cocaine to be really effective being an anesthetic. For medicinal marijuana advocates, this fact probably raises a litany of frustrating and baffling questions. Cocaine has known unwanted effects, and by no means has total support of People in america to savor legal comfort. Therefore we must request, how come our government carefully consider the dangerOrbenefits connected with cocaine, but merely dismisses this model for marijuana? Certainly most would agree that marijuana’s downside and possibility of harm pales compared to cocaine.
When the governors get their way, marijuana could be downgraded to some schedule II drug, departing the doorway open for government allowed medicinal marijuana. They’ve approached the DEA and asked for the problem be examined. The DEA has acknowledged getting a petition through the governors, that will require DEA to examine advances in marijuana research since 2006, the final time the problem was given to the DEA. Christine Gregoire was very direct in her own claims and stated “Poll after poll shows a massive most of People in america now see medicinal marijuana as legitimate.” She also added “An ever-growing quantity of doctors now tell 1000’s of suffering patients they might find respite from the initial medicinal characteristics of cannabis.”
The task of governor is difficult within this political/economic system. Nearly every condition appears to stay in financial trouble. Balancing budgets and enforcing laws and regulations without use of additional funds isn’t a desirable undertaking. Many chosen authorities are actually public regarding their need to alter marijuana laws and regulations. Marijuana reform can generate revenue, reduce funds allocated to enforcement/incarceration and also to provide relief inside a country where medical costs happen to be increasing. America no more has got the luxury of entertaining grand daddy just because a fast and progressive overhaul is required immediately.
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.