The Shifting Tide on Marijuana Legalization
Published May 08, 2009 @ 05:26AM PT
California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger made headlines this week by expressing his support for a commission to study the potential effects of legalizing and taxing marijuana. It was another big step in the right direction for marijuana legalization, and another sign that budget woes could be a driving force in the next stage of this debate. California is facing a budget shortfall of $20 billion and taxing pot could bring the state an additional $1.3 billion a year in revenue.
His announcement comes paired with a new Zogby poll this week that found for the first time that a majority of Americans - 52% - support the legalization and taxation of marijuana.
“I think it’s time for a debate,” Schwarzenegger said. “I think all of those ideas of creating extra revenues; I’m always for an open debate on it. And I think we ought to study very carefully what other countries are doing that have legalized marijuana and other drugs. What effect did it have on those countries?”
New drug czar Gil Kerlikowske, by all accounts a reasonable police chief when he was in Seattle and a good choice for the position by President Obama, was approved easily by the Senate yesterday. His appointment is a welcome change, say leaders at NORML and MPP.
"I think we are watching this with an open mind. He can't be worse than his predecessor," Bruce Mirken, communications director for the Marijuana Policy Project said. "By most accounts, Chief Kerlikowske has been somebody, while certainly not a reformer, not the sort of person we would necessarily choose, he sees to be somebody you can at least have a rational dialogue with."
Ex-drug czar John Walters couldn't handle all of this without a fight. In an appearance on CNN Wednesday night, he managed to fit into five minutes claims that marijuana is gateway drug, it either makes people unresponsive and helpless or incredibly violent, nobody is in jail for marijuana offenses and plenty of other lies.
It was a good week for the sea change. Reform doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen. If you support the legalization and taxation of marijuana, make your voice heard today.
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Comments (85)
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Matt has worked and volunteered in various capacities in criminal justice reform for several years. When he's not blogging, he works as the Online Communications Manager at the Innocence Project. Views expressed here are Matt's, and don't represent the positions of the Innocence Project.
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Perhaps if we honored The Constituion and Bill of Rights this debate would not be necessary.
Freedom of Choice. Pursuit of Happiness. Right to Privacy. Equal Justice.
By law in America, supposedly a country based on the rule of law, I have the right (but not the ability) to legally smoke pot or shoot up opiates if I so wished.
The personal agendas of Old Billy Hearst and Harry Anslinger managed to override those rights. Ah! Money and power trumps law in america.
the tag line on Law & Order I love most was, "What laws for the rich?"
Ohhhhh! but legalization would hurt the Prison/Industrial Complex. then we would need bail them out?
Posted by mel zimmer on 05/08/2009 @ 07:08AM PT
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I no longer smoke Marijuana, however I strongly believe that any adult should have the right to possess and use Marijuana as they see fit.
Marijuana is less addictive than either Alcohol or Tobacco, but most importantly, is less toxic to the human anatomy than either of the two. Tobacco is by far the most addictive, harmful substance one can purchase and use legally. As horrible as tobacco is, and as much as I discourage it's use, I believe it should remain legal. If you are an adult, lawmakers should have no right to dictate whether you do or do not smoke tobacco. The same should be the case for Marijuana.
Marijuana prohibition was started for purely political, non-scientific reasons. When it comes down to it, the two primary causes for it's illegality are: a) money, and b) ignorance. Those who promote fear and propaganda in regards to Marijuana use do not understand the science of Marijuana and it's active constituent, THC, or tetra-hydro-cannabinol. The effects of Marijuana are most often mild and enjoyable, like alcohol, however unlike alcohol does not lead to liver disease. There are of course some potential negative consequences to habitual Marijuana use, but these consequences are miniscule compared to the habitual use of Alcohol or Tobacco. Scientists, independent researchers, and medical practitioners have all confirmed the beneficial, medicinal properties of Marijuana. In recent years, we have seen more states approving it's use for patient's who are chronically ill, and I believe this trend will only continue.
Eventually, legislators (like a majority of Americans) will realize just how irrational it is to keep Marijuana illegal, when so many individuals have benefited from it's use, particularly when you consider the massive amounts of money it costs to enforce these unnecessary laws. As was the case with alcohol prohibition, Marijuana prohibition has only served to fuel organized crime, to the extent of now becoming a threat to our national security, while doing little to curb it's usage. The worst injustice, however, is the fact that those convicted for possession of Marijuana can be imprisoned with hardened criminals, criminals who often brutalize these individuals, turning many of them into hardened criminals as well. This is not what our criminal justice system was meant for.
I firmly support Governor Schwarzenegger's proposal to (at the very least) consider if not mandate the legalization and taxation of Marijuana. It's unlikely this alone will encourage people to smoke Marijuana, let alone to use other drugs which would remain illegal, but will give the millions of those who do smoke Marijuana the right they should have had to begin with. It will save the state of California alone hundreds of millions of dollars from the costs of unnecessary arrests, prosecutions and imprisonement, while creating a significant source of revenue for the state, at a time when we need it most.
Posted by Alan Haggard on 05/08/2009 @ 06:11PM PT
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Some actions you can take to support this cause:
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/hr_1466_the_major_drug_trafficking_prosecution_act_of_2009
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/transparency_in_the_fdadea_removal_of_prohibition
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/please_do_not_spend_more_money_on_merida_no_more_for_the_drug_war
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/legalize_marijuana
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/the_national_criminal_justice_act_of_2009
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/sign_every_pro_marijuana_petition_presented
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/reschedule_marijuanapetition_to_obama
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/legalize_marijuana_for_recreational_use_2_petitions
http://criminaljustice.change.org/actions/view/legalize_medicinal_marijuana_save_lives_petition
Posted by Alan Haggard on 05/10/2009 @ 01:36AM PT
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while i was reading the article i was paying attention to what Arnold Schwarzenegger was discussing - before we think about legalizing marijuana we should look at other countries that already legalized marijuana and take a look at what effect did it have on those countries?..i also read the post that was posted by mel zimmer and i agree with how he was talking about the bill of rights and the rights to privacy and i started to wonder why force laws if they cannot abide to them...its just a thought...what do you think?
Posted by Mike Money on 05/08/2009 @ 08:44AM PT
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i cant wait and i think ive been saying this since i was 17 years old " they should legalize it, the government will make money off of it" as of right now the government aint making $hit out of it because there that slow it took them this long to finaly figure that out
Posted by Maribel Martinez on 05/08/2009 @ 09:52AM PT
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I watched that story on CNN's "AC 360" too, and it was great seeing Anderson Cooper manage to stop (a couple times at least) Walters from giving his standard "Drugs are bad M'okay" rant.
That, and seeing him being firm about re-directing Walters back to the questions Cooper asked - and the discussion/debate they were there to have in the first place, that being, "Should marijuana legalization be 'on the table" for discussion & debate"?
(Walters repeatedly wanted to "go back the previous part", he did manage to do so for a short bit, once spewing some B.S. "facts" and decades old propaganda.)
It's obvious Walters IS NOT willing to debate this with anything approaching an open mind, or to have an honest talk about implementing a Change in our country's horribly outdated policies regarding marijuana prohibition.
Which of course was the question that Gov. Schwarzenegger, was asked about in that press conference (that iirc was held primarily to address the current California wildfires), and the Gov's answer to the question was essentially (I'm paraphrasing/summarizing Arnold), "We really should have an open talk about this... and start a new debate on the issue -one that addresses the current science/research, facts, and the effects of similar legalization programs that have been conducted in other countries."
That's why this news story was about and Walters made it very clear that he's NOT willing to do so - he rejected everything that A.Cooper & Jeffrey Miron said, even things that are generally accepted as "facts" by most reasonable people.
For example: That Marijuana is less harmful than alcohol - Walters went off first on tangent about "how much stronger=worse today's MJ is than it used to be"...
And then he went on another tangent about not wanting "more users out there" and the whole cliche "but what about the increased costs to society?" bit - not figuring in or even acknowledging the current "costs to society", due to the prohibition of marijuana, and that those 2 "costs" may cancel each other out - and could quite possibly give us an overall socially beneficial effect.
But that's something that Walters and those who share his view are unwillingly/unable to fathom - it totally blows away their entire world-view, and they might have to get new jobs, or retire, or just go away.
Kudos to AC for doing his best to keep the story on track, and to Miron for making several good points...
Ones that Walters couldn't refute with anything but ludicrous claims of "facts" most people know are false - all the while, showing everyone (who's not already pre-disposed to side with him) his major bias and stubborn flat-out refusal to even 'approach the table' open-minded, and his ignorance and/or denial of what are (to an ever increasingly larger portion of the country) accepted "truths" about marijuana prohibition & legalization.
The more Walters talked and interrupted - the more he made a case for needing this debate among the entire public - not just politicians and bureaucrats. Plus, he pretty much reinforced Miron's points (and Cooper's questions) making them look that much more rational and sensible!
Posted by Bryan Snowden on 05/08/2009 @ 10:25AM PT
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So maybe we should thank Walters! He has only destroyed the credibility of his position with his wild rantings, much as Rush Limbaugh has done for the Republican party. Thanks, John!
Posted by Romy Carver on 05/08/2009 @ 11:14AM PT
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REALLY! I couldn't really get too upset about all the crap that was coming out of his mouth because it was so outlandish and dated, it was comical. So when's the next press conference so the press can harass Obama again about this? He's going to either have to Change his position or continually put his foot in his mouth (not to mention sound like John Walters).
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/09/2009 @ 08:37PM PT
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In this case the majority want it legalized, there really shouldn't be a debate.. It should be we the people say YEAH!! and it will be, no questions asked... It becomes more of a dictatorship when govt officials have the final say so. Even with Obama's comment on its helping the economy, there was no reasoning behind his decision, it was as if his word was law and everyone wanting it legalized was a joke... We can win this, keep making calls, sending emails, telling others & get out and march.. :D
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/08/2009 @ 10:41AM PT
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"In this case the majority want it legalized, there really shouldn't be a debate.. It should be we the people say YEAH!! and it will be"
They could have already done with voter initiative except the ONDCP and DEA decided to spend taxpayer money they took from we the people, to run an ad campain to lie to we the people, thus killing just enough support for the initiative to end it.
Dont you just love how WE are forced to PAY them to lie to us and persecute us?
Posted by J L on 05/08/2009 @ 01:28PM PT
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I think President Obama is pragmatic, rational, and generally reasonable enough that he CAN be persuaded to change his mind on this...
Now, Exactly what it will take to persuade and/or convince him to change his current position (or even just to PUBLICLY consider it) is another matter. Having 52% approval of legalization on a Zogby Poll - is probably not gonna cut it, but it may get his attention.
And if Gov. Schwarzenegger - (who TBH, doesn't have much to loose at this point, trying to work within the remnants of the increasingly right-wing conservative Republican party As the Gov. of California one of, if not THE most liberal state in the country - as well as being one of the most populous/influential as well),
- is willing to go out on 'the proverbial limb' first, along with possible support from Sen. Jim Webb - mainly via The National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2009 (and it's... "blue-ribbon commission to look at every aspect of our criminal justice system with an eye toward reshaping the process from top to bottom.")
Sen. Webb on the other hand DOES have something to loose, (he's a first-term Senator from Virginia, one of the "toughest" "anti-crime" states in the country). This makes his efforts all that more valuable!
(Webb: Pot legalization 'on the table' in prison reform effort) - here;s aquote from that article
"The leader of a congressional effort to reform the criminal justice system said Thursday that all issues — including drug legalization — need to be on the table.
Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.), who has made criminal justice and prison reform a signature issue of his this year in Congress, is the most high-profile lawmaker to indicate openness to drug decriminalization or outright legalization.
- "Well, I think what we need to do is to put all of the issues on the table," Webb said (April 23, 2009) on CNN when asked if marijuana legalization would be part of his criminal justice reform efforts."
Several interviewers tried more than once to get him to say something more than that, but he wouldn't... (yet?)
There's a couple blog posts all about Sen. Webb - and his efforts on prison reform (somewhere) here in the Criminal Justice section (iirc, possibly somewhere else around here).
The more the public voices a desire for "This Particular Change" to our federal laws, the President might just surprise us - maybe as an Executive order removing it from the List of Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substance Act, preferably removing it from the CSA altogether - tbh idk if that's really possible?
(Some states may/will then step in and regulate it as they desire) - just like with Alcohol. Last I checked there are still a fair number of "Dry Counties" in some parts on the country, and in places there are city ordinances that limit alcohol sales - typically on Sundays or between certain certain hours - drinkers who party 'heavily' just have to plan ahead to stay drunk all weekend. *smirk*
Posted by Bryan Snowden on 05/08/2009 @ 01:45PM PT
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I like to compare government control over my body to abortion. Whether we agree or disagree will never be resolved. This is a moral issue that needs to be resolved in the home, amongst those involved.
At the same time, its one HELL of a heavyweight question to simply write off as "its her body, she can choose". Yet we do. This is how we ultimately resolve the right to elective abortions.
So, .. if the question of life itself can be answered so bluntly, what the hell happened to recreation and MY right to MY body?
Posted by J L on 05/08/2009 @ 01:02PM PT
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I totally agree about Kerlikowske. It's also agreeable that it wuold be hard for anyone to be worse than his predecessor. It was almost amusing to read the desperate hysteria of John Walters, who is undoubtably one of our nation's premiere nutjobs.
It is time to end to the extremely costly and unjust war against weed. It is time for the weed prisoners to be freed. Hysteria is expensive and doing the right thing now has financial benefits.
Societies that have legalized victimless crimes have seen many benefits and have been better positioned to focus on real crime. In addition to weed being an obvious right (the abortion analogy on this thread is retarded), the benefits of recognizing such a right are countless. Rev. Bookburn - Radio Volta
Posted by Rev Bookburn on 05/08/2009 @ 03:21PM PT
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"In addition to weed being an obvious right (the abortion analogy on this thread is retarded), the benefits of recognizing such a right are countless. Rev. Bookburn - Radio Volta"
Its not an analogy, its a disgrace. I am not saying that abortion should be outlawed, like prolifers, but I DO feel that its wrong and I would be against it in my family unless necessary. Each has their own decisions to answer for; I would not force my moralities on someone else.
THAT being said, women have the RIGHT to just kill babies if they simply dont want it "because its their body"; if women have the right to kill because its their body - NO ONE has any business giving me any rules for mine. I WILL comsume what I please when I please, and if the system doesnt like it, well you can jail me and pay to house and feed me while I consume more there.
Posted by J L on 05/08/2009 @ 04:14PM PT
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You make a very good point here.
Posted by Dianne Riddles on 05/08/2009 @ 09:37PM PT
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LoL!! A political prisoner.. I completely agree with you.
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 02:49PM PT
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Seriously! The right to choose shouldn't be limited to women, and it shouldn't be limited to abortions. I want to hear an elected official reconcile that one.
Although the breakdown of the new Zogby poll shows only 24% of Conservatives support legalization. So basically a large chunk of the anti-reform base is also against abortion rights. You can't use logic in an argument with people who have totally rejected logic.
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/09/2009 @ 09:01PM PT
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You wants to take drugs. If it's not for a medical reason. They should be all banned that my opinion
Posted by Mathew Accord on 05/08/2009 @ 08:49PM PT
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Maybe you should learn to write in complete sentences and give cogent reasons for your beliefs.
Posted by dave bryan on 05/09/2009 @ 06:58AM PT
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Tabacco & Alchol are both drugs but they are legal. It isn't a matter of wanting to take drugs, its more of a matter that one should be able to choose what they want to put in their bodies or not. Have you ever had a ciggarette or drank alchol in your life? and how would you feel if you had those rights taken away from you? and what if those rights where taken away on the basis of racism & personal financial gain? thats just to name a few.. the list goes on.. there was no scientific basis for outlawing marijuana..
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 02:42PM PT
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Just to be clear John, would you be in favor of legalizing drugs such as cocaine, pcp, and heroine? One would draw the conclusion that you would be, judging from your comments.
Also, some food for thought...I have indulged in alcoholic beverages in the past, and that option was taken away from me due to some health problems. The thing is, my life has been so much better in so many different ways since I stopped doing the whole bar/club scene.
But that is just one man's experience. Thought I would put it out there for consideration.
Posted by Dennis G. on 05/09/2009 @ 07:48PM PT
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"Prohibition will work great injury to the cause of temperance. It is a species of intemperance within itself, for it goes beyond the bounds of reason in that it attempts to control a man's appetite by legislation, and makes a crime out of things that are not crimes. A Prohibition law strikes a blow at the very principles upon which our government was founded." - Abraham Lincoln (1809-65), U.S. President. Speech, 18 Dec. 1840, to Illinois House of Representatives.
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 08:21PM PT
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Excuse me, I refered to you as John, I should have said Joe. Thanks for the Lincoln quote. So again, do you support the legalization of all drugs? Our constitution also affords us the right to bear arms. Do you think everyone should be walking around with a loaded weapon? Would you feel safe in that kind of community?
Posted by Dennis G. on 05/09/2009 @ 08:39PM PT
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DRUG BAD! UGH!
::beats lookitybox cuz clicker dun bustid::
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/09/2009 @ 08:43PM PT
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Ahh yes, intelligent commentary in the face of opposing view points as usual. Thanks.
Posted by Dennis G. on 05/09/2009 @ 08:57PM PT
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Oh c'mon! This "the world will come to an end" crap is getting old. Drugs, like guns are ALREADY in our communities. We would have more luck dealing with drugs (and gun violence) by dealing with REAL criminals instead of just blaming drugs (or guns) and hoping that criminalizing everyone that owns drugs or guns will make it go away. Many American communities aren't safe today with our policies as is. Your way of thinking hasn't worked. 35 plus years and use, addiction and violence rates have only risen. It's time for a new direction.
No one is suggesting we give drugs to everyone. Just like we don't give drugs to everyone. By regulating drugs we have the opportunity to choose who has access. Drug dealers don't check ID. Should we put criminals in sole control over the gun industry in America with no oversight by the government? Because that's what drug prohibition amounts to.
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/10/2009 @ 07:12PM PT
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I know you're not suggesting we give drugs to everyone and I'm not saying that the world will come to an end with legalization, especially if it's just marijuana. My point is...drugs, like guns, can be quite dangerous in the wrong hands. We cannot expect people to be able to use them responsibly. People can't even drink alcohol responsibly. I argue most strongly with those who say drug use is a victimless crime. Clearly, in many, many instances, the "user" is not the only one who is affected.
Also, I wonder if gov't regulation would do that much to squash the criminal enterprise in drugs. Regulation has not done much to control illegal gun trafficking. Maybe it boils down to what KIND of regulation we are talking about.
One thing I think we can agree on is this. For those who do have an addiction problem, treatment would be a much better option than jail time. Prisons are meant for criminals, not people who are ill.
Posted by Dennis G. on 05/10/2009 @ 11:29PM PT
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But there are millions of Americans that DO use guns responsibly. Despite the problems with illegal firearms, no one suggests that a complete lack of firearm regulation on behalf of the government would at all alleviate the problem. Giving the black market full control over something ensures that there is no oversight whatsoever. Only dangerous criminals making money. Anyone can buy. Anyone can sell. You don't want these things in the wrong hands? They are coming from the wrong hands! These are the hands that have full control of these things! And those are the pockets that are filled from the sale of these things. This policy has the exact opposite effect you are trying to achieve.
If we are using guns as an analogy, imagine a world where the current marijuana prohibition modal is applied to guns. The second amendment is erased. All gun owners, dealers and manufacturers are criminalized. Gun and ammo shops are routinely raided. Gangs and cartels have full control over firearms in America. Not even the police and most of the military would be equipped with firearms. If we treated guns like marijuana, it wouldn't make any sense whatsoever, and would be an obvious failure before it got off the ground. The facts of the matter are; marijuana is not at all like firearms. The lethal potential of marijuana is near nil. On the other hand, guns are designed for just that purpose. Yet guns are legal and marijuana is not. You honestly don't see anything wrong with that?
Guns are legal and potentially very lethal. There is a certain system of regulation in place for them. pharmaceutical drugs are designed to help but are also potentially very lethal. They are also perfectly legal. There is a different system of regulation in place for them. Alcohol is designed strictly to, quite simply, get you fucked-up, and yes, is also potentially lethal. Being completely legal, it has it's own set of regulations. Marijuana has been compared to all three, but there has never been one recorded overdose of marijuana. I think this goes to show that marijuana needs a legalized system of regulation all it's own that does not criminalize users.
We should be taking advantage of this plant's many applications, from recreational to medical to industrial. We have a valuable resource in front of us that we refuse to even take an honest look at.
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/11/2009 @ 09:40PM PT
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matthew accord takes the unamerican, unconstitutional stance.
does he even live in the USA?
Posted by mel zimmer on 05/14/2009 @ 06:59AM PT
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why take something that isnt criminal and make is so?
Posted by Evan Livonius on 05/27/2009 @ 08:00AM PT
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Though I don't smoke myself, I know many that do or have, and from those observations I fall into the Dennis Leary Camp.
Paraphrased.
"Marijuana doesn't lead to other drugs, it leads to carpentry."
Posted by Damon Ballard on 05/09/2009 @ 01:10AM PT
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If you can read and do not depend on the TV news for the truth. Then how could anyone support the failed war on drugs?
Being 60 and well read it is the biggest waste of money and the main reason we have lost so much personal freedom since its inception.
END THE TYRANNY CALLED WAR ON DRUGS IT IS A WAR ON OUR FREEDOM OF CHOICE.
CFJ
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/09/2009 @ 09:52AM PT
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I think it was Thomas Jefferson that said.. Tyranny is the people being afraid of the government, Liberty is the government being afriad of the the people." It appears to me that the fear "Tyranny" that comes from this war on drugs isnt a war on the drugs its a war on the peoples personal liberties. Benjamin Franklin said. "Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 02:59PM PT
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Our lawmakers are doing business a usual. Have they not heard of the Internet. Do they not realize we are watching and do not like what we see.
Big corporations pay our Representatives millions every year to buy their vote. They use the money to buy reelection can you not see this fact?
http://www.change.org/actions/view/step_one_end_specal_interest_in_washington
Where I come from this is bribery and is against the law. Another case of anyone who works in DC is above the law! They make the laws and we are on the losing end of the vote.
CFJ
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/09/2009 @ 09:57AM PT
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Thanks for the link.. just went and signed it..
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 03:01PM PT
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Legalize it ... It will be just like legalizing alcohol and we will make money on the taxes and it will stop costing money for DEA to bust pot smokers. It is amazing that we're even wondering if we should legalize it - Ask old people who witnessed the end of the gangsters selling alcohol illegally and you will know that it is a solution that will work for us today too.
Posted by MARGE BUNN on 05/09/2009 @ 10:45AM PT
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I dont know about everyone else. But I'm in Oregon, 8 miles from the border of California. If California is the first state to legalize marijuana.. I'm going to Disneyland.. ;)
Posted by Joe Wilson on 05/09/2009 @ 03:04PM PT
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thanks to the personal agenda of Will Hearst and Harry Anslinger we have been doomed to repeat history for more than half a century. It isn't our society that is slow, but our Governments at all levels.
Those who fail to learn from History are Doomed to Repeat It.
That's our tax dollars at work, and unconstitutional as hell.
If the money that went to (N?)ORML for lobbying and networking had gone to constitutional lawyers over these past three plus decades I have no doubt that our rights under The Constitution and Bill of Rights would be honored today.
Posted by mel zimmer on 05/10/2009 @ 01:17PM PT
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It is a bright day in Augusta, Maine...
"Action Alert
BREAKING NEWS: Maine Expands Marijuana Decrim Law
On May 1, Gov. John Baldacci signed LD 250 into law -- expanding the state's longstanding marijuana decriminalization law.
Under current law, possession of up to one and one-quarter ounces of marijuana is a civil violation punishable by a fine of no more than $600.
Under the new law, possession of over 1.25 ounces but less than two and one-half ounces of marijuana will also be defined as a civil offense, punishable by a fine of $700 to $1,000 dollars. (Civil fines for the possession of less than 1.25 ounces of marijuana will remain the same.) The measure also removes the inference that possession of quantities of marijuana above 1.25 ounces but less than 2.5 ounces are presumed to be for sale.
The new law takes effect 90 days following adjournment of the 124th Legislature.
NORML would like to thank those of you who wrote your elected officials in favor of LD 250.
Thank you for supporting marijuana law reform in Maine."
-- WWW.NORML.ORG
For too long has prohibition, decieved and oppressed the people of the United States. For too long, there have been peaceful, productive citizens, locked away into complexes of over-crowded cages. For seventy-two years, a campaign of lies and brutality, has pummled down with the force held firmly by the hand of the man.
The illusion is however; that their power is absolute. This is a lie, it is a ghost, a phantom created greedy men. The power is within us, the mothers, the farthers, the brothers and sisters, the sons, and daughters, for we are many, and when our power is realized it is bested only by the power of God Himself. Save us from this reccession, end prohibition. This is our drug war. The tide is turning...
Posted by Evan Livonius on 05/11/2009 @ 08:06AM PT
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Evan
Thank you for the update on Maine!
The potential economic benefits of widespread cultivation in the U.S. are UNDERestimated enormously when you consider all of the uses of the various parts of the plant. In my opinion, research that will flourish as a result of decriminalization will reveal more uses, some incredibly important. Behavior research will flourish as well with large, long studies and subtle population wide benefits to decrim will emerge over time that we can't imagine right now.
Posted by Steve Morrow on 05/14/2009 @ 02:04PM PT
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Congratulations, it's a step in the right direction!!
Posted by Romy Carver on 05/15/2009 @ 11:21AM PT
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Legalize marijuana, just like Amsterdam it has worked their for many years and could work her to get your heads out of your asses and look at the waste of time and money on this war on the weed !
Posted by Ronald Waxter on 05/11/2009 @ 09:21AM PT
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The problem is if they try to compare how it worked in another country like Amsterdam, they wont take into account that we have gangs that make a living on marijuana and other countries don't have this problem. This is especially true for States that border Mexico. And there is the drugs wars going on in Mexico and crossing the border and the MAIN drug is marijuana. There are other drugs too but marijuana is the biggest market for the Mexican drug mafia.
If they legalize it, then Mexico would actually be able to contribute to that new trade agreement that so far has only supported our manufacturers moving to Mexico and taking the jobs with them. From what I can see the only thing we are importing from Mexico is vegetables, not a very fair trade. But then again, we could create new jobs here growing it heren ourselves.
One thing Obama has done was to tell the Feds to back off of California's licensed users and pharmaceutical growers. Yeah!!!
Posted by Sharon Blasingame on 05/12/2009 @ 07:35PM PT
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Well.. I believe Marijuana SHOULD be legalized I've smoked PLENTY
of it! Marijuana did not make me stupid.. I went to High School
and College. Now I am a pharmacist in the state of Louisiana!
I probably wouldn't have got this far if it wasn't for Marijuana
and to this day I still smoke it! Also Hemp oil is the cure for Cancerous Infections and Cancer itself! I really do not see why
Marijuana was not legalized a long time ago.
Posted by Max Amy on 05/12/2009 @ 11:51PM PT
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LEGALIZE IT!!!!!!!!!
Posted by Max Amy on 05/13/2009 @ 12:08AM PT
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Some of you quote your rights being violated by not being allowed to smoke pot. What about the rights of the millions of people who don't want to get a contact high, who don't want to smell it, who don't want to have to deal with high people? What about the rights of the Doctors and Teachers who don't want to deal with more addicts and more lethargic, unmotivated people? What about the rights of society to not to have to deal with the social issues that will be caused by legalization.
Oh, and if you believe that legalizing will magically make the bad guys put away their guns and the Cartels will all just say hey okay I'll pay taxes now, you are stoned already.
Posted by DRUG FREE AMERICA FOUNDATION on 05/13/2009 @ 07:33AM PT
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In regard to your rights concerning contact high and smelling it, I'm sure that the millions of pot smokers would be more than happy not to smoke in the same room with you, just as cigarette smokers abide by laws that deal with the same issue.
I would venture to bet that you deal with people who get high every day and you don't even realize it. REEFER MADNESS is a myth! It was propagated by our government and it is over.
You should get a grip on reality. Let me give you a slice of American Reality Pie. I have smoked pot for over 35 years and I am not an addict, I am not lethargic, and I am not unmotivated. I live in and attend college in a small city where I carry a 3.75 average. Some of my personal friends are professionals who smoke pot - some of which are lawyers, teachers, doctors and yes, even police officers.
Social issues - well let's see, can you be more specific?
The only reason you are not aware of these facts is because you have a closed mind about this issue just as they did in the day of alcohol prohibition.
And, if you will do a little more research you will discover that legalization of marijuana is going to be the only way to stop the bad guys just as it did with the prohibition of alcohol.
When marijuana is legalized, manufactured and sold on the open market, the bad guys and the Cartel will not have marijuana marketing to fight over.
And, if you believe that marijuana will never be legalized, hey, you need to get stoned one time.
Posted by Dianne Riddles on 05/13/2009 @ 09:33AM PT
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Posted by Dianne Riddles on 05/13/2009 @ 10:11AM PT
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If you would like to open your mind -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhCBQC0eirQ
Posted by Dianne Riddles on 05/13/2009 @ 10:13AM PT
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You're grasping at straws with this one. I hardly think your organization is a reputable source of information in terms of marijuana. All these arguments could be used against alcohol as well, but considering the donations you guys get from the alcohol lobby, I doubt that will happen.
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/13/2009 @ 02:15PM PT
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Let's take this piece by piece.
"What about the rights of the millions of people who don't want to get a contact high, who don't want to smell it, who don't want to have to deal with high people?"
Funny you should ask. Many people in the marijuana reform side of this argument advocate marijuana being treated similarly to alcohol. What does that mean, you ask? Well, it means that marijuana (like alcohol) wouldn't be allowed to be smoked publically. I think we can agree on that, at least. Marijuana would be allowed in open-air bars that have ruled marijuana to be smoked in their area, and on private property where the owners have also given permission.
"What about the rights of the Doctors and Teachers who don't want to deal with more addicts..."
What you have failed to understand, time and time again, is that marijuana as an illegal drug is far more available than if it were legal. In other words, the addiction rates would actually go down since we're obviously not going to be selling marijuana to kids under 21 (like marijuana is currently sold). Addiction rates have never been a problem with marijuana and rare is the case that a marijuana user will check himself in (note: "check himself in" concerned about his own addiction, not "check himself in" because he has a court order to).
"...and more lethargic, unmotivated people?"
Again. I will make this point again. Marijuana. Is. More. Widely. Available. Than. It. Would. Be. If. It. Were. Legal. And. Regulated.
I capitalized the individual words and made each word a sentence so you can better read it. No thanks are needed.
Point two: It's interesting that for a plant that supposedly causes people to turn lazy, marijuana legalization is building as a cause in the United States that more and more people are fighting for. That doesn't sound like lazy potheads to me.
Point three: The last three presidents smoked marijuana. Ten million Americans actively smoke marijuana and are incredibly successful. Bill Maher openly admits to currently using marijuana and he's successful in showbiz. Michael Phelps smoked marijuana and still managed to win gold medals in the Olympics.
"What about the rights of society to not to have to deal with the social issues that will be caused by legalization."
You don't get it, do you? Marijuana in its illegal state (as it is currently) is far more damaging than if it were legal, regulated and restricted. All one needs to do is to look at what damage alcohol caused during Prohibition and think about if it was still illegal today.
"Oh, and if you believe that legalizing will magically make the bad guys put away their guns and the Cartels will all just say hey okay I'll pay taxes now, you are stoned already."
62% of cartels' profits are made up of marijuana. The bad guys aren't going to put away their guns. They're going to abandon their goods in that market because they're going to be worth less than the cost of getting them into the United States.
You seem to believe that we're trying to wave a magic wand and say "Marijuana, be legal!" What you don't realize is that we've been fighting this fight for a good long time and we understand that it's going to take a long time for marijuana to start having an impact. But that impact will be noticeable. When you cut the majority of profits from any criminal organization, it panics, takes its money and runs.
That's when we pounce.
But sure. If you're willing to keep the cartels loaded on money, keep these false arguments up and try to poison more Americans' lives. You're going to fail miserably.
Posted by Jacob "Bear" Elert on 05/13/2009 @ 05:29PM PT
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Its your right to not be in my home and not "deal with" what I do in my private space, thanks.
And umm ...
"Oh, and if you believe that legalizing will magically make the bad guys put away their guns and the Cartels will all just say hey okay I'll pay taxes now, you are stoned already."
No, it wont. What it WILL do to the "bad guys" is defund them when legitimate, sanctioned businesses take the market right out of their hands. Sure, theyll try other stuff for money - but taking one of the BIGGEST public markets from the "badguys", a 350+ billion dollar per year industry is ALWAYS a good thing.
Posted by J L on 05/14/2009 @ 04:03AM PT
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Oh, and if you believe that the popular opinion in the USA is NOT to legalize - or at the very least, decriminalize - marijuana, you need only look as far as the members of your cause, Drug Free America Foundation - 2 - you and one other person with their head in the sand. I did go to the site just to see what kind of ignorance was being spewed there and it looks to me like it is a lonely position to take - which is further evidence that you don't have a clue. The reality is that marijuana will eventually be legalized. At that point, maybe you should consider loosening up a bit and giving it a try. I really think it would help you find a much needed attitude adjustment.
Posted by Dianne Riddles on 05/14/2009 @ 01:35PM PT
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What about my right not to listen to the ignorant unconsidered opinions of brainwashed braindead idiots who only care about their opinion and close their minds to the facts?
Prohibition caused the popularity of weed. They knew that when they passed the law because we had just come out of alcohol prohibition. It is what they wanted. Then those same "opponents" turn around and make the big bucks from it's import and sale.
There is no more innocuous drug known to man. It is our right to use if we so choose. We WILL use as long as we so choose. You've tried to stop us for nearly 75 years. You CAN'T. You WON'T.
Maybe if all the anti's took a couple hits their eyes would open and their minds would free, and everyone could chill out a little and start enjoying life. Nothing in my mind is more reprehensible than someone who would deny anothers' pursuit of happiness for no other reason than a sick perverted holier-than-thou rightousness.
FREEDOM NOW!!!
Posted by Timothy O'Dell on 07/21/2009 @ 03:48PM PT
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Funny....
I was thinking why we do not go for walks anymore.
To get away from a stalker we moved to a rather isolated region in Northern Virginia. The woods are for the most part quiet, but the community allegedly has FBI/CIA safe houses, home for a few "law enforcement officers" and citizens that grow product. We stopped associating with the neighbors because they got a hold of laced stuff and the neighborhood went "odd" - this was over a decade ago....
Back in the day one home had "gardens", the little plant growing out of the floor boards ..... back to the point....
Given that I know that growing product activity goes on and the risks involved with the product results in an initiative to protect the revenue sources. We are reluctant to walk around the neighborhood. This way we do not get involved in another "mess". At this time we do not want to risk another incident where someone would plant a stash in our toilet - we cant afford another attorney that would presume us guilty of something.
It would be really good to be able to go to a party or have a party and not have to worry about being busted because of product. Or walking by a house, looking over and not having to worry about being observed seeing something. Or worrying about someone upset with you "planting" something in ones toilet. Or having to worry about the community smoking laced product and going bonkers.
This whole dynamic is not making us any safer - back to that "fear" thing....divide and conquer....
Posted by jowey styxx on 05/13/2009 @ 04:03PM PT
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Marijuana is not a drug... drugs are man made, like pharmaceuticals drugs that are induced to many people in the USA. Those same drugs which does cause harm to the body. Those same drugs which puts money into the companies that made the drugs. The same drugs that has killed people.
Alcohol is a Drug as well, it is man made..
Cigarettes is a DRUG, who makes them ? MAN
But Marijuana is Earth Made.. Its Natural so therefore it is not a DRUG.
and many of our founding fathers used it as well, The Constitution is made out of Hemp which is the fibers of Marijuana. The Flag that BETSY Ross sewn was also made out of Hemp. The ropes and sails on the ships and during the civil war was made out of Hemp. The list is so long in what Marijuana can be used for..
The ones who wants to keep it illegal are the corporations who is against natural items, they would rather people use their products which causes Cancer and many other deathly health problems.
The logical reasons is to legalized Marijuana.
Posted by Lara Nunes on 05/13/2009 @ 04:10PM PT
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Why not .. Im sure someone saw this confusion coming:
According to the FDA a drug is something used to treat a disease, and ONLY a drug can be used to treat a disease. Then they state "marijuana is of no medicinal value", hence not a drug... Then the government bans it as a drug, which they also say it isnt.
ya gotta love our idiotic system.
Posted by J L on 05/14/2009 @ 05:51AM PT
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Oh and i almost forgot the arm of government that aparrently doesnt trade notes with the other arms: The Dept of Health and Human Services. The United States, as represented by DHHS, holds patents on various marijuana alkaloids and modified analogues, FOR USE AS A DRUG to treat all sorts of stuff.
Posted by J L on 05/14/2009 @ 05:53AM PT
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A drug poison is man made by the greedy goverment and other companies. Most of the so called drugs the FDA claims are too treat dieases.. doent treat anything, but causes more harm.
If they really wanted to Cure Cancer, and all other so call dieases that made up.. they would have done it already, but their bussiness is not tp cure or treat a diease.. they bussiness is to continue to make people sick and eventually kill a person..
The doctors and pharmacial companies will not make $$$$ if they cure people, they make $$$ making them sick..
Marijuana is an herb... it does cure things and it also heals the planet..
For some christians here
http://www.essortment.com/all/herbsbible_rjro.htm
Jesus 'Healed Using Cannabis'
http://cannabisnews.com/news/thread15119.shtml
Pot and Prophecy - Cannabis Culture
http://cannabisnews.com/news/thread13812.shtml
Posted by Lara Nunes on 05/15/2009 @ 04:54PM PT
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fuck yea! It should be legalized why the fuck not!
THE GOVERNMENT IS HOLDING OUT ON US!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by John Wilkinson on 05/13/2009 @ 09:13PM PT
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John,
Here is the History of Hemp used throughout the World.
http://www.hemphasis.net/History/history.htm
A SHORT HISTORY OF MEDICAL HEMP
http://www.hempmuseum.org/SUBROOMS/HEMP%20MED%20HISTORY.htm
Posted by Lara Nunes on 05/13/2009 @ 10:19PM PT
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In portugal they've decriminalized all drugs and it has dramatically decreased the abuse and overdose of drugs across the board.
Posted by Priscilla Jorissen on 05/14/2009 @ 06:37AM PT
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I don't believe decriminilizing all drugs is the answer.
You have to remmeber, not all drugs are the same.
To classify Marijuana in the same category as meth and PCP is idiotic at best. And I firmly believe meth and PCP should remain illegal. However, I believe there should be fines for these harmful drugs, not jailtime, as well as manditory drug treatment. Again, this should only apply to drugs that are extremely addictive as well as toxic, incl. meth, pcp, heroin, etc.
Drugs that have scientifically proven to not be as toxic as others, and less toxic than the legal drugs alcohol and tobacco, as well as being less-adictive (i.e. Marijuana), or non-addictive (i.e. MDMA), should be legal, however taxed and regulated.
Posted by Alan Haggard on 06/05/2009 @ 07:32PM PT
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this was seven plus years ago and still the policy today.
Posted by Priscilla Jorissen on 05/14/2009 @ 06:37AM PT
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Fox News (Oreilly, even): So, why shouldnt we legalize marijuana?
Old Stuffy dood: Oh, we know so much more about marijuana today. Its addictive, it causes cancer..
BillO: But cigarettes are addictive
Old Stuffy Dood: Marijuana is just as addictive, more, worse. Its physically addictive. We know this now, the government tells us so
..................
WHEN are they going to give up on the lie campaigns. This kind of crap just makes me want to stangle someone (so much for marijuana making me lethargic, huh). Now its not only addictive, its addictive like heroin! And causes cancer!
The truth about marijuana and cancer, well there is no truth. Its complete BS. The same "carcinogens" found in marijuana smoke also are emitted by any camp fire, fried steak, toast. They are the result of partial combustion of organic materials. So what makes tobacco different? Nicotine.
While those "carcinogens" can damage cells, our body has a system for killing damaged cells so cancer doesnt start. Nicotine interferes with this process. It blocks programmed cell death. Read any literature about HPV and nicotine. It promotes HPV infections turning into cervical cancer, but umm, she didnt inhale with THAT. On the same track, nicotine will not allow warts to go away even with treatment - because the bodys natural process of killing the damaged cell is blocked, so they continue to regrow.
Its pretty well established science, yet they avoid it when it comes to marijuana. They only want to tell you what tobacco and marijuana smoke have in common, and NOT the major difference.
Posted by J L on 05/15/2009 @ 03:34AM PT
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John, thank you so very much for this comment. I shall be using it in the future to ward off claims that marijuana causes cancer.
Posted by Jacob "Bear" Elert on 05/15/2009 @ 01:36PM PT
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While searching for information they are using to SUPPORT marijuana being cancer causing, I came across this rather astonishing article. It states exactly what I am saying here about nicotine, albeit short, as well as the fact that THC has antitumor properties. Good discussion.
So, why does no one ever use this info to defend against the "cancer" attacks on marijuana? Good question... especially considering this was covered by FOX NEWS of all people, 3 years ago!
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,196678,00.html
But the neocon puritans at Fox have since turned away from the research and back to the propaganda, of course!
Posted by J L on 05/16/2009 @ 04:48AM PT
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Legalize marijuana
If marijuana remains ilegal
the cartel will continue
makeing money and filming
are children on camera.
They mix all these extra stuff
like animal traqulizers,coca,bug
spray,even cat piss.Its a show
All people want is natural marijuana.
so they can feel better about their
day.
We can legalize marijuana so it is
SAFE but a drugfreeamerica is supported
by who ciggerate company and alcohol companys.
Witch says oh we want a drug free america but
we take the support of other drug suppliers
what is that all about really.
So make your money and greed just dont take
away my weed.
Time has sliped,On gonig
forever,Many copys to come,
laughing together,So choose
your path wise,Relive your
high or report your exzact
past to change the future
in time,Walk alone on a
steady path,Or repeat
makeing cash,Happy that
your where sad,Liveing in
a no mans land,Changed
language so we dont speak,
allways trying to leave,
Hard to understand but
its a show for the disease,
Controling your thoughts,
Changeing your brain,
Loveing one another when
you know its in vain,
Crying for those who
have past,Leaveing a
trail of tears that will
always stay glad,
Im a really sad person and marijuana
helps me with my illness.I put my thoughts
into words i rebuild things in my mind
and hope that all of you will do the
same.
Legalize marijuana
Posted by John Gormay on 05/16/2009 @ 02:24AM PT
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With the economy in such sad shape, politicians are scrambling to find creative ways to generate revenue.
Believe this or not, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland wanted the state to be able to create and operate non profit organizations!
Posted by Bill Woosley on 05/16/2009 @ 07:20PM PT
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All people on the fence with this issue should go to the following site. Read the stories of the people in jail. Casualties of the war on US (drugs). If you want the facts all you have to do is follow the money. This will educate you to the fact. People will still enslave their fellow Americans for money.
http://www.november.org/thewall/wall/wall.html
CFJ
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/17/2009 @ 01:05PM PT
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If you read the stories on the site above. You will see the feds do not care who you are they work for pure numbers. They will arrest and frame anyone to meet their numbers. You may be next you should really read a few of the stories before it happens to you.
Also judges have been convicted of taking million in bribes. Bribes that were paid to ensure the for profit prison system stays full. Full of non-violent honest tax paying Americans but mainly low income with no political connection. They are sacraficed to insure control for the corporations that profit from the war on US (drugs) 100 billion every year is spent.
Statistics prove that if you have political connections or are actually a politician. You are less likely to be convicted to a long federal sentence. In fact I have never heard of a high ranking political individual having their children or family locked up. Over these laws they have passed to ensure the private jails stay full. They continue to enslave millions of us the common person the poor person the powerless person. Yet they as a group (politicians) defy statistics a law that says in any given population you will have X number of drug offenders, users and abusers. But then again they are above the law they dictate that we must follow. If it were their children going to jail they would change the laws? Ya think?
American will never respect a law born of racism perpetuated by greed and supported by lies. Please help fight the tyranny we call the war on drugs....
Cherokee Fred Jesus
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/17/2009 @ 01:34PM PT
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Yes hi I have schizophrenia so
I have conversations with myself
no one would ever think of.
And when Im on marijuana I talk
to myself It helps me cope with my
Illness.
What I do Is say what time
It Is my name and date like
Im leaveing mail.Sometimes
I tell whats happening
In the present.But those
are basic notes.
So if you smoke?
Pick anything out
of the news like
for starters obama
makes marijuana
legal in 2009.
Say that while your
on marijuana along
with other things
that happen that
year.You could
even make a dilemma
by saying he does
not make marijuana
legal.
Their for altering
time it self and
what now oh thats
right makeing time
expandable.Witch
are the effects of
marijuana.
Say this High.
VVVVVVVVVVVVV
Hi My name is America
Its 7:30pm on may 29,2009
Eastern Time I live in
A Trash can with a dead
elk inside with me.
And obama makes marijuana
legal.Or marijuana stays
illegal.
Have Fun.
Posted by John Gormay on 05/17/2009 @ 06:41PM PT
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Momentum has taken a very distinct turn in our direction. We need to capitalize on this and continue our pressure on elected officials and the skeptical half of the public.
Posted by mikey johnson on 05/17/2009 @ 10:19PM PT
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What we need is a truce in the war on US (drugs) it helps in other wars. If the government (our elected officials) would declare a truce and quit arresting us at the rate of one million a year. Allowed people to come forward and voice their opinion without fear of reprisal and incarceration by our leaders. The numbers would go up at a high rate. Many people I know who use cannabis and have for years are skilled in the game of hide and seek. They take a very low profile in fear of our lawmakers putting them in jail. This is what our country has become while we looked the other way.
I am old to many of you I have seen life in the 60s I have known freedom. I want that freedom back I do not need an elected official dictating to me what I can and can not do in my own home. It is time to fight and I am ready!
Cherokee Fred Jesus
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/19/2009 @ 06:00AM PT
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What the F change org changed the format now I can hardly find our issue. What chance does a new person have in finding it???
Posted by Cherokee Fred Jesus on 05/20/2009 @ 06:29PM PT
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The sad part of this issue is that most political officials dont give a rats ___. Most do not realize the economic and agricultural potential of this plant. The medical benifits are outstanding, and can be used from one end of the spectrum to the other. From minor pain treatment, to treating cancer symptoms.
Check out this website for more medical info.
http://www.pacifier.com/~alive/cmu/
To those who fight cannabis legalization, what do you have to gain?
A strange and terrible thing happend to cannabis in the 1930's, cannabis went from one of the most widely grown crops in the United States, to one of the most FEARED crops in the United States. This I believe can be attributed mostly to the simple change of its name, and blatant lies hand fed to our population.
I quote a wikipedia article:
"The name marijuana (Mexican Spanish marihuana, mariguana) is associated almost exclusively with the plant's psychoactive use. The term is now well known in English largely due to the efforts of American drug prohibitionists during the 1920s and 1930s. The prohibitionists deliberately used a Mexican name for cannabis in order to turn the populace against the idea that it should be legal by playing to negative attitudes towards that nationality. (See 1937 Marihuana Tax Act). Those who demonized the drug by calling it marihuana omitted the fact that the "deadly marihuana" was identical to cannabis indica, which had at the time a reputation for pharmaceutical safety.[4] It must be noted, however, that cannabis indica in the 1930s had lost most of its former popularity as a medical drug.[5]"
As you can see prohibition started and grew on fear, decption, and even racism.
How can a cause be legitamate when they thrive on these emotions? How can US Americans still tolerate this arrogance which has tainted our minds for nearly a century?
To see that prohibition is wrong and built on lies you need not go further than a history book, or now we have wikipedia!
Posted by Evan Livonius on 05/25/2009 @ 06:32AM PT
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Here a suggestion:
Lets stop using this prohibtion era terminology. Let us call herb by its rightful name,
CANNABIS
Posted by Evan Livonius on 05/25/2009 @ 06:40AM PT
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Is it not funny that the easiest concepts and most logical rights take hundreds of years of feuding and persecution before the government finally takes action. Women's suffrage, civil rights, gay marriage. Hell, men of science and distinction we persecuted for saying that we revolved around the sun and that the Earth was round. These same close-minded people have not come out of power yet, they're still here shutting down to the most obvious of questions. It takes several decades before we see how apparent these rights are to everyone.
I feel that the legalization of marijuana is no different. It is, much like its predecessors, a very simple case. I have as much right to this planet as anyone else does. We are all born into it with an equal standing as one another. However, some are indoctrinated with the concept that we are not all equal. These men are the ones who come into power and now begin telling me what I can and can not use this Earth for. They have no problems with oil companies who have drilled, polluted, and dumped oil all over the West African shoreline; but when it comes to growing a plant that has been in existence longer than the human race, we face 3 years of mandatory prison.
However, this does not even compare to the most aparent of human rights, which is, NOBODY HAS ANY RIGHT telling us how we may affect our thinking. If we have nothing else in this world, if all has been stripped from us, we still have our thoughts. The way we think, feel, believe and what we do to our mind or thoughts is nobody else's concern. It really is that simple. Our mind is already under attack and we have very little to defend ourselves. Advertising, news reports, tabloids, fashion, diets, politics. Everyday we are being told how to think; EVERYDAY! Think about it, everything is mental. What religion I choose to be a part of is not physical, it's psychological. Every preconception, judgement, moral and ethical guidelines; it's all in our thoughts, none of it is tangible. So if I choose to to leave the Catholic Church for a Buddhist lifestyle, all that I have changed is my thoughts. I don't see government blockades against those who change religions or give into the psychological warefare of round-the-clock advertisement. All that has happened is WE ALTERED THE WAY WE THINK.
Please just sit and contemplate, whether you support marijuana or are against, that it is a plant and it alters the way you think. All of our HUMAN RIGHTS, far more important than civil rights, are being disregarded by our legal inability to harvest this planet of which we were born into equally, and our only God given right that nobody can touch, and that is to think.
Everything changes the way we feel and think, whether for better or worse. Religion, food, pain medications, alcohol, cigarettes, driving fast, sex, shopping... All of it is there to alter us, but ANY of these in excess is bad for you, just like marijuana. I am angry that the powers that be can do not allow me to make a responsible for myself. I have the choice to gorge on Big Macs until I die, but do I? Do you? No! We are responsible, sensible people and even if we do kill ourselves, again, that is OUR CHOICE. NOBODY ELSE'S.
Please, just think. It's not illegal yet.
Posted by David Bernal on 06/01/2009 @ 11:50AM PT
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YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A WHITE HOUSE TRADITION:
The 40th annual Smoke-In
Washington, DC
Saturday July 4th:
Rally - High Noon - Lafayette Park
Parade - 3:00PM Lafayette Park to Lincoln Memorial
Concert- 23rd & Constitution Ave NW
Featuring:
Human Rights (HR of the Bad Brains)
See-I
Christos
Telesma
The Package
The Omsteders
J.B. Beverley & the Wayward Drifters
DJ Beedroom
Call 202-286-5586 or visit www.smoke-in.org for more information.
Posted by mikey johnson on 06/01/2009 @ 08:05PM PT
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An Open Letter to George Soros and fellow Billionaires
Dear George et al,
Perhaps you have noticed the rising tide of marijuana law reform in America. The issue is solidly in the mainstream for 2009. No week goes by without progress being made on the issue along with heavy media coverage. Truly, at no other time in the last 30 years has the topic of cannabis reform been more popular and prevalent in state legislatures and the federal government.
I have personally dedicated time and skills towards the goal of ending marijuana prohibition as a volunteer to several local and national groups.
Recently during some of my enthusiastically offered time I have been debating prohibitionists on television, radio and blogs. Too often I hear the same completely false opposition arguments, yet all that backward rhetoric is easily countered with facts about marijuana and my own charming demeanor.
But one hollow prohibitionist statement is somewhat frustrating and directly relates to you Mr. Soros. Frequently the marijuana law reform movement in the US, even the absolutely vital medical marijuana effort, is broadly accused of being funded by "billionaires like George Soros."
Giving credit where it is due: You and others of your financial stature have made generous contributions to select reform groups over the years. These have been valuable to the reform effort. That support to some groups came when the issue of cannabis reform did not enjoy its current overall popularity.
But the truth is that those few massive donations have not reached everyone in the marijuana reform movement. Not by a long shot.
Around America there is the greenest of the grassroots movements, one that includes thousands of active participants who speak up for millions of supporters. It is kept alive with some of the most dedicated volunteer spirit involved in any political movement; everyone working on the common cause of common sense prohibition reform.
There was a time that I had the privilege to work under contract for NORML-National in Washington DC to create podcasts. But I have never received any money from a billionaire, certainly never directly from you Mr. Soros.
That is why it is somewhat surreal in public debates when this humble volunteer (well, volunteer at least) is constantly accused of being well funded by none other than you!
One recent TV debate is an example
>> Watch WFMZ-Allentown Medical Marijuana Debate Video
Here in New Jersey and Pennsylvania we are working every day on medical cannabis reform and other important issues. We do it for free.
Our groups of volunteers in PA and NJ are not unique. We are part of a vast network of non-paid advocates in every state.
But to be clear, we are absolutely not too proud to take money from billionaires. We would welcome your contribution.
So perhaps you would like to purchase a CMMNJ T-shirt or lapel pin, maybe a PhillyNORML T-Shirt or perhaps just a general (even anonymous) donation to PA4MMJ or CMMNJ....say for around $10 million dollars.
Perhaps you can invite some of your like-minded friends of similar financial stature like Bill Gates…because as much as I agree that AIDS in Africa is a deadly serious problem; there are thousands of HIV/AIDS patients who must edure fear of arrest along with their condition every day, because they live in American states that do not have a medical cannabis program yet.
Why not help them too?
Locally in PA and NJ we can make a lot happen with the backing of a billionaire or two.
Just look at what we and other advocates across the country do already, for free.
Sincerely,
Chris Goldstein
www.cmmnj.org
www.pa4mmj.org
www.phillynorml.org
Posted by Andrew Snyder on 06/02/2009 @ 07:25PM PT
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I think there are a lot more then 52% of the US citizens that want the drug legalized. I know there are so many hard working good people who smoke, they are from all walks of life. So many people would love to speak up for the legalization of pot, but due to the lack of real info about the drug they are afraid to speak up. They are scared to speak up for fear of losing jobs, friend, and family. Come on lets get real, if you want to get some real answers ask real people for real life experiences. I have used for over 30 years. I have friends who are teachers, lawyers, bankers, the list is endless. And you may think you do not know a soul who smokes ,but you are wrong you know them. You would just never know it, because they are your every day normal people who enjoy it, and it causes them no harm. Their only fear is getting busted. It helps me with depression, and it makes me more spiritual. I am tired of being scared for such harmless, and helpful drug. Please people have an open mind, and ask questions with out being so judgmental, I think so many people would be shocked at just how many GOOD people get high. God bless us all and lets all pray that the laws will change......Lynn
Posted by Lynn Drinkard on 06/09/2009 @ 10:12AM PT
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I just contacted my Congressional Representative to urge support of HR 2835, the Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act. The legislation will help protect individuals who use or provide medical cannabis in accordance with their state law.
On June 11, Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) and a small bi-partisan
coalition of Members of Congress re-introduced HR 2835, the Medical Marijuana
Patient Protection Act. The legislation will help protect individuals who use
or provide medical cannabis in accordance with their state law.
Visit http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/PatientProtectionAct to take action
now!
Posted by bob silvey on 06/15/2009 @ 01:52PM PT
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Now is the time to step up and mae an effort to get this plant where it is beneficial both medically and economically.
*** Congress Considers Bill to Protect Medical Marijuana Patients ***
Law Would Allow Marijuana Prescriptions, End Federal Interference in States
A bipartisan bill that would dramatically transform federal policy on medical
marijuana is before the House. The bill seeks to change the classification of
marijuana from a Schedule I drug, defined as having no medical value, to a
Schedule II drug, which could be prescribed like other medications. Known as
the "Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act" or HR 2835, the act would also
prevent interference by the federal government in any state or local medical
marijuana program.
The bill, introduced by Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) along with a dozen
other members, is similar to legislation introduced in previous Congressional
terms.
"We're hopeful that the Obama Administration's new policy on medical marijuana
creates the right political context for passing this important legislation,"
said Caren Woodson, ASA's Government Affairs Director. "It's time for the
federal government to acknowledge marijuana's medical efficacy and develop a
comprehensive plan to provide safe, consistent access for the hundreds of
thousands of Americans that benefit from its use."
In addition to rescheduling marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act
(CSA), HR 2835 would provide federal legal protections for all qualified
patients and caregivers in states that have legalized the use of medical
marijuana, as well as any entity authorized under local or state law to
distribute medical marijuana.
In addition to the Frank bill, Representative Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) has asked
for clarification of the Obama Administration's policy in language he added to
the appropriations bill that funds the Department of Justice.
"It's imperative that the federal government respect states' rights and stay
out of the way of patients with debilitating diseases such as cancer who are
using medical marijuana in accordance with state law to alleviate their pain,"
Rep. Hinchey said in a statement.
___________________________________
*** ACTION ALERT: Support Federal Medical Marijuana Legislation ***
Urge your Congressional Representative to Support HR 2835
On June 11, Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) and a small bi-partisan
coalition of Members of Congress re-introduced HR 2835, The Medical Marijuana
Patient Protection Act. The legislation will help protect individuals who use
or provide medical cannabis in accordance with their state law.
If passed, this important legislation would, among other things, reschedule
marijuana from a Schedule I to Schedule II drug according the Controlled
Substances Act and provide clearer protections for qualified patients, their
caregivers, and safe-access sites authorized by state or local law.
Write your U.S. Representative now and urge support for Patient Protection Act!
Posted by bob silvey on 07/02/2009 @ 03:28PM PT
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You might as well just leagalize it..lots of people do it and as long as we are responsible i think we should...if people could just be responsible we could change this world for the better.
i think it would bring us closer to peace and closer as a nation and it would pay off all this debt or economy is in...it's really smart if you think about it.
i think nature should overpower any law and any man its a plant thats harmless and people who are harmless are getting put away for it i dont think its right just because something in society is "wrong" doesn't necessarily make it wrong...for instance...slavery wasn't right..people thoght it was, just like this...and people who haven't tried this..don't know how it is so they shouldn't judge it.
people would pay good money for this. so WHY NOT!!!???everyone wants change so be it legalize it. It will help us in the long run not harm us cause it's harmless.
I think it should be decriminalized cause people who get sent away for it, it ruins there life they get seperated from the people they love...I think it's our right as people to have this done.
Posted by Ali Lucier on 07/10/2009 @ 03:33PM PT
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This is just an update from WA state...they will need signatures to make this happen but I think it will happen if it gets onto the ticket for a vote....
___________________________________________________________________
Citizen initiative would legalize pot in Washington state
Washington voters may get a chance to decide whether they want to make marijuana legal for adults.
Activists have filed a ballot initiative that would authorize marijuana possession in Washington state. Sponsors include two Seattle and the director of Seattle's annual Hempfest. Backers of the measure would have to collect more than 241,000 signatures to put the question before voters in November.
Douglas Hiatt, a lawyer who represents medical marijuana patients, told The Associated Press after filing the initiative Monday the proposal would remove all state penalties for pot possession by adults. Criminal penalties for juvenile possession and for providing the drug to juveniles would remain. Marijuana would still be illegal under federal law.
Mike McGinn, Seattle's new mayor, has said he thinks marijuana should be legalized. State attorney general Rob McKenna is against the idea.
Marijuana is a hot topic in Olympia.
Three state lawmakers who are supporting a bill that would decriminalize marijuana possession. Another Seattle lawmaker, Democratic Rep. Mary Lou Dickerson, has introduced a measure that would legalize marijuana in Washington state for people 21 and older. Those bills will get their first hearings Wednesday afternoon.
On Tuesday travel writer and television host Rick Steves, an ardent supporter of marijuana legalization, will host a forum in Olympia.
Proponents say relaxing the state's marijuana laws will save money and make sense. Opponents say the push is wrongheaded and will encourage abuse of other drugs.
Posted by G. "BUD" Budlong on 01/12/2010 @ 10:37PM PT
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