{"id":1504,"date":"2013-03-29T07:37:36","date_gmt":"2013-03-29T07:37:36","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/?p=20781"},"modified":"2013-03-29T07:37:36","modified_gmt":"2013-03-29T07:37:36","slug":"marijuana-industry-news-march-29-2013","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/marijuana-industry-news-march-29-2013\/","title":{"rendered":"Marijuana Industry News March 29, 2013"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"wp_fb_like_button\" style=\"margin:5px 0 5px 5px;float:right;height:100px;\"><script src=\"http:\/\/connect.facebook.net\/en_US\/all.js#xfbml=1\"><\/script><fb:like href=\"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/marijuana-industry-news-march-29-2013\/\" send=\"true\" layout=\"standard\" width=\"450\" show_faces=\"false\" font=\"arial\" action=\"like\" colorscheme=\"light\"><\/fb:like><\/div><p><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"259\" height=\"194\" src=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/decrim.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"decrim\" title=\"decrim\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><a rel=\"attachment wp-att-20782\" href=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/news-and-articles\/marijuana-industry-news-march-29-2013\/attachment\/decrim\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-20782\" title=\"decrim\" src=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/decrim-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a>Portugal Decriminalization Yielding Positive Results&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The idea of decriminalizing marijuana has become increasingly popular over the years.\u00a0 At times, it seems only elected officials are seeking to maintain the failed approach.\u00a0 The idea of decriminalization and re diverting money while keeping teens out of jail is winning the argument.\u00a0 Those who support outdated drug laws never seem to take Portugal into consideration.\u00a0 Twelve years ago, Portugal underwent a major overhaul of their approach to controlled substance regulation.\u00a0 Even in the midst of many critics, they decided to pass decriminalization laws.\u00a0 The results are not shocking to activists as Portugal has seen the new laws produce results.\u00a0 Doctor Jo\u00e3o Goul\u00e3o, a former family physician, has contributed a great deal to the new policies.\u00a0 He recently said that decriminalized laws needed to be considered because &#8220;We figured perhaps this way we would be better able get things under control.\u00a0 Criminalization certainly wasn&#8217;t working all that well.&#8221;\u00a0 While the idea enjoys more acceptance today, Dr. Goul\u00e3o explained that Portugal was a pioneer in their approach over a decade ago.\u00a0 He said &#8220;At the point when we designed the law, we had hardly any data to draw on.\u00a0 We weren&#8217;t the least bit certain this would work.&#8221;\u00a0 The bill passed is referred to as &#8220;Law 30\/2000&#8221; and Dr. Goul\u00e3o explains that it has been successful.\u00a0 Specifically he said &#8220;This is working. Drug consumption has not increased severely. There is no mass chaos. For me as an evaluator, that&#8217;s a very good outcome.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.spiegel.de\/international\/europe\/evaluating-drug-decriminalization-in-portugal-12-years-later-a-891060-2.html\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story click here<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img 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\" alt=\"\" \/><strong> <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Bill to Legalize and Tax Marijuana In Maine receives Support From Many Lawmakers&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With Colorado and Washington&#8217;s historic laws to legalize marijuana, it is not surprising that many other states are following their lead.\u00a0 We at marijuana.net have been pleased to report about all the new states considering decriminalization, legalization, and medical marijuana laws.\u00a0 Maine has recently introduced a bill that would legalize and tax marijuana.\u00a0 While it is unclear if the bill will pass, it is making sizable waves in the state government.\u00a0 There are already 35 co-sponsors for the bill and now it will move to a legislative committee hearing.\u00a0 If passed, there would be a $50 tax per ounce, with individuals being permitted to posses 2.5 ounces.\u00a0 Earlier this week, Maine&#8217;s political director for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mpp.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Marijuana Policy Project<\/a>, 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.&#8221;\u00a0 Another interesting element of the Maine legalization bill is that is was lawmaker initiated.\u00a0 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.\u00a0 Maine appears to highlight a turning point, where introducing a marijuana legalization bill no longer hurts and perhaps even enhances their standing with voters.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bangordailynews.com\/2013\/03\/27\/politics\/bill-to-legalize-tax-marijuana-in-maine-gains-35-co-sponsors\/\" target=\"_blank\"><br \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/bangordailynews.com\/2013\/03\/27\/politics\/bill-to-legalize-tax-marijuana-in-maine-gains-35-co-sponsors\/\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story click here<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com\/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTIrf-IWhlWPc0uw5tWu1ixqlTlqIOU67EGQUquWetq2qjnkWYkfg\" alt=\"\" \/><strong> <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Dispensaries May Open this Year in Massachusetts&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It is clear that he northeast region of the United States is becoming a hotbed for marijuana reform.\u00a0 We have spoken at great length about New Jersey finally getting its medical program off the ground.\u00a0 Additionally, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.governor.ny.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\">New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo<\/a> has been fighting hard to reform<a href=\"http:\/\/www.nyclu.org\/issues\/racial-justice\/stop-and-frisk-practices\" target=\"_blank\"> &#8220;stop and frisk&#8221; <\/a>in order for decriminalization laws function as they were intended.\u00a0 Connecticut has also legalized medical marijuana and just above this story we spoke about Maine considering legalization.\u00a0 Massachusetts may see the doors open to dispensaries before 2013 is over.\u00a0 The Massachusetts Department of Health has now filed draft regulations on medical marijuana use and expects to have a finalized version by May.\u00a0 The Department of Health is expected to start accepting applications for dispensaries over the summer.\u00a0 Last November, 63% of Massachusetts voters elected to legalize medical marijuana.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bostonherald.com\/business\/healthcare\/2013\/03\/dph_releases_draft_medical_marijuana_regulations\" target=\"_blank\"><br \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bostonherald.com\/business\/healthcare\/2013\/03\/dph_releases_draft_medical_marijuana_regulations\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story and a listing of the Department of Health&#8217;s requirements to open a dispensary, click here<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"259\" height=\"194\" src=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/decrim.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"decrim\" title=\"decrim\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><a rel=\"attachment wp-att-20782\" href=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/news-and-articles\/marijuana-industry-news-march-29-2013\/attachment\/decrim\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-20782\" title=\"decrim\" src=\"http:\/\/www.marijuana.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/decrim-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a>Portugal Decriminalization Yielding Positive Results&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The idea of decriminalizing marijuana has become increasingly popular over the years.\u00a0 At times, it seems only elected officials are seeking to maintain the failed approach.\u00a0 The idea of decriminalization and re diverting money while keeping teens out of jail is winning the argument.\u00a0 Those who support outdated drug laws never seem to take Portugal into consideration.\u00a0 Twelve years ago, Portugal underwent a major overhaul of their approach to controlled substance regulation.\u00a0 Even in the midst of many critics, they decided to pass decriminalization laws.\u00a0 The results are not shocking to activists as Portugal has seen the new laws produce results.\u00a0 Doctor Jo\u00e3o Goul\u00e3o, a former family physician, has contributed a great deal to the new policies.\u00a0 He recently said that decriminalized laws needed to be considered because &#8220;We figured perhaps this way we would be better able get things under control.\u00a0 Criminalization certainly wasn&#8217;t working all that well.&#8221;\u00a0 While the idea enjoys more acceptance today, Dr. Goul\u00e3o explained that Portugal was a pioneer in their approach over a decade ago.\u00a0 He said &#8220;At the point when we designed the law, we had hardly any data to draw on.\u00a0 We weren&#8217;t the least bit certain this would work.&#8221;\u00a0 The bill passed is referred to as &#8220;Law 30\/2000&#8221; and Dr. Goul\u00e3o explains that it has been successful.\u00a0 Specifically he said &#8220;This is working. Drug consumption has not increased severely. There is no mass chaos. For me as an evaluator, that&#8217;s a very good outcome.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.spiegel.de\/international\/europe\/evaluating-drug-decriminalization-in-portugal-12-years-later-a-891060-2.html\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story click here<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img 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\" alt=\"\" \/><strong> <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Bill to Legalize and Tax Marijuana In Maine receives Support From Many Lawmakers&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With Colorado and Washington&#8217;s historic laws to legalize marijuana, it is not surprising that many other states are following their lead.\u00a0 We at marijuana.net have been pleased to report about all the new states considering decriminalization, legalization, and medical marijuana laws.\u00a0 Maine has recently introduced a bill that would legalize and tax marijuana.\u00a0 While it is unclear if the bill will pass, it is making sizable waves in the state government.\u00a0 There are already 35 co-sponsors for the bill and now it will move to a legislative committee hearing.\u00a0 If passed, there would be a $50 tax per ounce, with individuals being permitted to posses 2.5 ounces.\u00a0 Earlier this week, Maine&#8217;s political director for the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mpp.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Marijuana Policy Project<\/a>, 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.&#8221;\u00a0 Another interesting element of the Maine legalization bill is that is was lawmaker initiated.\u00a0 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.\u00a0 Maine appears to highlight a turning point, where introducing a marijuana legalization bill no longer hurts and perhaps even enhances their standing with voters.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bangordailynews.com\/2013\/03\/27\/politics\/bill-to-legalize-tax-marijuana-in-maine-gains-35-co-sponsors\/\" target=\"_blank\"><br \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/bangordailynews.com\/2013\/03\/27\/politics\/bill-to-legalize-tax-marijuana-in-maine-gains-35-co-sponsors\/\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story click here<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com\/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTIrf-IWhlWPc0uw5tWu1ixqlTlqIOU67EGQUquWetq2qjnkWYkfg\" alt=\"\" \/><strong> <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Dispensaries May Open this Year in Massachusetts&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It is clear that he northeast region of the United States is becoming a hotbed for marijuana reform.\u00a0 We have spoken at great length about New Jersey finally getting its medical program off the ground.\u00a0 Additionally, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.governor.ny.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\">New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo<\/a> has been fighting hard to reform<a href=\"http:\/\/www.nyclu.org\/issues\/racial-justice\/stop-and-frisk-practices\" target=\"_blank\"> &#8220;stop and frisk&#8221; <\/a>in order for decriminalization laws function as they were intended.\u00a0 Connecticut has also legalized medical marijuana and just above this story we spoke about Maine considering legalization.\u00a0 Massachusetts may see the doors open to dispensaries before 2013 is over.\u00a0 The Massachusetts Department of Health has now filed draft regulations on medical marijuana use and expects to have a finalized version by May.\u00a0 The Department of Health is expected to start accepting applications for dispensaries over the summer.\u00a0 Last November, 63% of Massachusetts voters elected to legalize medical marijuana.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bostonherald.com\/business\/healthcare\/2013\/03\/dph_releases_draft_medical_marijuana_regulations\" target=\"_blank\"><br \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/bostonherald.com\/business\/healthcare\/2013\/03\/dph_releases_draft_medical_marijuana_regulations\" target=\"_blank\">For more on this story and a listing of the Department of Health&#8217;s requirements to open a dispensary, click here<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[52,506,119,391,184,286,457,56,9,69,50,51,1527,70,1,3,61],"tags":[2632,3080,2697,2969,2762,2864,3031,2636,2648,2630,2631,4095,5,6],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1504"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1504"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1504\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1504"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1504"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cannitrol.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1504"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}