Lawmakers on the California Assembly, Committee on Public Safety, voted 4 to 3 today in favor of Assembly Bill 390: The Marijuana Control, Regulation, and Education Act — which seeks to legalize the production, distribution, and personal use of marijuana for adults age 21 and older. The vote is first time since 1913, when California became one of the first states in the nation to criminalize the use and possession of marijuana, that lawmakers have called for the repeal of cannabis prohibition.
“Today’s vote marks the first time in nearly a century that California lawmakers have reassessed this failed criminal policy,” said NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano. “Any risks presented by the use of marijuana by adults falls within the ambit of choice we should permit individuals in a free society. It’s time replace the failings of marijuana prohibition with a policy of legalization, regulation and education. Today’s vote is a significant, albeit first step in this direction.”
Further Committee votes on AB 390 are unlikely to take place this session because of legislative calendar restraints. However, the bill’s sponsor, San Francisco Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, said that he would likely reintroduce a similar version of the bill later this month.
Registered supporters for the measure included: the AFL-CIO, the American Civil Liberties Union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), and the California Public Defenders Association, among others.
Registered opponents of the bill included: the California Fraternal Order of Police, the California Narcotics Officers Association, the California Police Chiefs Association, the California State Sheriffs’ Association, the California Peace Officers’ Association, and the California District Attorneys Association.
Voting ‘yes’ on the bill were Ammiano, Assemblyman Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, Assemblyman Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael and Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley. Voting no were Assemblyman Warren Furutani, D-Gardena (Los Angeles County), Assemblyman Danny Gilmore, R-Hanford (Kings County) and Assemblyman Curt Hagman, R-Chino Hills (San Bernardino County).
Archived footage of today’s historic vote is available on the California Channel here.
now maybe other states will follow suit and do what is right instead of wasting billions on prohibition.
california is so lucky . but now what? what about the rest of the states that do not have legalization in their states ? do u think people are goin to visit cali now for vacations and stuff more frequently? i hope this snowball into somethin big when the rest of America find out that california is beatin their debt by makin marijuana lega now. i hope other staes find out that they are losing out on somethin big that can only help them financialy. come on New York ! pay attention.
This is a good thing, one step towards legalization! If marijuana became legal, it would turn into the major cash-crop and our debt would be over!!!
oh yea and help alot of people who are stressed like, how need a better job like me and whose families are also stresed and in pain due to stress or some other sickness. i hope states recognize this great idea and start actin on legalizing marijuana .
progress is here and success is in sight now. I expect California to legalize in November and following the success, marijuana could be legal by mid-2011 (if all goes well – although I can’t see legalized marijuana in Cali causing anything bad – just happy individuals excercising freedom and financial relief for the state)…
I’m so happy! I’m glad that the first state to prohibit marijuana is also the first state to vote on legalizing! How ironic! However I’m confused on this paragraph, why would the bill’s sponsor feel the need to introduce a similar bill?
“Further Committee votes on AB 390 are unlikely to take place this session because of legislative calendar restraints. However, the bill’s sponsor, San Francisco Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, said that he would likely reintroduce a similar version of the bill later this month.”
[Paul Armentano responds: AB 390 was introduced in 2009. Assembly rules mandate that all 2009 bills be moved to the floor by the end of the week. Since the bill can not be moved to the floor before the deadline, a new bill will have to be introduced.]
One more thing:
Registered opponents of the bill included: the California Fraternal Order of Police, the California Narcotics Officers Association, the California Police Chiefs Association, the California State Sheriffs’ Association, the California Peace Officers’ Association, and the California District Attorneys Association.
100% of those profit from prohibition… That’s the only incentive to keep bud illegal and hopefully it’s not enough.
Way to go, California (and thanks for the insight, Ry)!!
Keep up the activism guys, you’re leading the way for the rest of us!!
WAY TO GO!!
The list of organizations which are against this tells people all they need to know. Prohibition has built bureaucracies which don’t wish to be sent to the employment line like the rest of America if prohibition was repealed.
I told my endocrinologist that I used marijuana for my crohn’s disease. It was the biggest non-event ever. He said, “You’re gonna have to move to California!” Bear in mind I have not one but 3 chronic illnesses. If it were all that dangerous or affected my health in any way but positively, I imagine his reaction would have been much different.
[Paul Armentano responds: “The list of organizations which are against this tells people all they need to know.” It most certainly does!]
Good job on your efforts your success in california is being celebrated all over our great nation tonight. Two major wins in two days. My congratulations goes out to all who work so hard to make people realize that this substance is not bad and can be used by responceable adults.
We’ll see! I hope this trend spreads but have to approach everything with very cautious optimism! We have a bunch of liars in Washington and this snail like progression towards legalization could possibly just be smoke and mirrors to prolong this forever! I hope this isn’t the case and intend to keep fighting to see this in our lifetime! All it takes is us!
Mr. Armentano,
Is it better for the legalization movement to focus its efforts onto AB390 v2.0, or would it be better if we halted that front until the November vote on “ROT 2010” (Richard Lee’s initiative)?
Really, and we’re assuming that the people of California is/are going to be epic and vote in semi-legalization in November (aka to most of us as “the people” recognizing that America’s war on weed has failed), the California legislature may deal with the idea of marijuana regulation, if only after realizing the tax revenue realization faults. They’d figure out that the state government is losing out on this special excise/future tax, and enact a statewide regulatory system in order to correct that issue.
I guess my questions to you, Mr. Armentano, are:
1. Should we focus on AB390 v2.0, or just on Richard Lee’s initiative?
2. If/When Richard Lee’s initiative passes, how long would it take for the legislature (for whatever reason) to take upon the idea of adding a state regulatory system?
Thank you for your work towards liberty!
[Paul Armentano responds: It is unlikely that there will be additional legislative activity on AB 390 this session. Were the initiative to pass in November it is likely that lawmakers would still consider AB 390-like statewide regulations in 2011. The initiative allows for local controls but does not propose statewide regulations.]
So, people want the government to support substance abuse, but still complain about healthcare? wat?
This would help California a lot, and I wondered what it will be like in five years.
I wonder why #13 is even here…anyways, this is HUGE!! I hope the lawmakers of Montana are paying attention to this!
“Registered opponents of the bill included: the California Fraternal Order of Police, the California Narcotics Officers Association, the California Police Chiefs Association, the California State Sheriffs’ Association, the California Peace Officers’ Association, and the California District Attorneys Association.”
Lord forbid the people in these agencies and groups have to redirect their efforts they would have spent on MJ and focus that time and $$ on violent crime.
Dax- You don’t belong here
WAY TO GO CALI! I am crossing my fingers and toes hoping this passes
All of the opponents are just police officers that want to keep their jobs.
Don’t fall for the lies! Legalize!
There isn’t a single medical association against it!!
There is still a window of opportunity for this bill to be reviewed by the health committee if Tom Ammiano is motivated enough. He has to request a special wavier to push the bill through the committee hearing to make it to the floor of the assembly for a vote, if I’m not mistaken, by friday. this makes me a little angry that this was not anticipated, and why wasn’t the bill reviewed in a earlier safety committee session allowing it time also to be reviewed by the health committee. It’s looking like 2012?
Such an exciting start for 2010! NJ and CA moving the wheels of progress forward!
Everybody will continue smoking even if its not legal so legalize because I dont want to have to keep buying from a dealer I want to buy it from the store and pay tax.
This historic step in the correct direction is brought to you by our friends at NORML and few brave politicians and many other reformers in the great state of California. This process is going to take some time to complete. I think it will be dynamic in nature as all of this is new and will require refinement. Many states are watching carefully to see how it goes. I hope they get this going in a good way and set a high standard so everyone will be comfortable following their lead. Thanks Paul and everyone at NORML. Another brick in the road to freedom.
Do we not spend enough (or any) time demonstrating to cops what it is they could be doing instead of incarcerating marijuana users? I’m being very serious and would like to know more about this. Surely there’s got to be something we can do to appease them. I want to live in a society where the good cop working around the corner is my friend and ally against real crimes.
Whoa dude! I’m stoked!
Then what the fuck was the point? Maybe you want to tell us that it’s impossible anything will be done about it before you get our hopes up. What kind of fucked up legal system can’t pass a bill that they voted on just because they don’t have time? What if it were something more “important” like funding for the police force? I bet they’d sure pass that with no problems.
Useless.
We’ll just have to wait for the voter initiative. That’s already on the ballot, no more deadlines for that one except for voting. GET OUT AND VOTE, CALIFAGS!
Get friends, family, and potential patients informed on the subject of cannabis and hemp. Send them links to CannabisTV.org so they can watch and learn for themselves.
Education can turn into activism. CannabisTV.blip.tv
A historic event and a warning shot across the bow of the US congress. It lets them know that America is not going to wait on them to decide for them if they want to end this prohibition. And the shot will be heard around the world.
This passage by a committee gives credence to the polls and the flood of letters that all our legislators are receiving from proponents for the ending of the prohibition of marijuana. If you check the opponents to the passing of this bill,it is the organizations that stand to lose millions in subsidies
from the federal government to primarily enforce marijuana laws.
This bill’s passage,even just by a committee will also be noted by the Ways and Means committee and when added to the fact that now 14 states and the Attorney
General recognize marijuana as an alternative medication,could possibly result in their reducing federal funds for the enforcement of federal marijuana laws,because marijuana no longer fits the description of a schedule 1 drug,with no medical applications.
And the ending of this prohibition could very well be done by the bean counters.
It needs to be brought up in debate over and over again that law enforcement only opposes it because it will impact their state and federal funding. It’s pretty amusing that drug cartels need drugs to stay illegal as much as the DEA and police associations in order to survive.
Dax,
Freedom to use cannabis has nothing to do with “the government supporting substance abuse”. Many substances with a much higher potential for abuse are easily available to everyone.
People of conscience do not wish for people to
continue to be criminalized for using a valuable herbal. Cannabis has been found to be valuable for uses from relaxation to relief of various physical symptoms.
In addition, people of conscience do not wish to see people denied health care because of health insurance issues.
Please seek to inform yourself. Some issues require some actual critical thinking skills and a little compassion.
Dax, the feds shouldn’t have their noses in either of those subjects… it should be up to the people if they want to smoke a joint or buy health insurance, not enforced by big brother.
Also, good job California, may the rest of us follow suit!
MA, pack up the kids we’re movin’ to California……If the Feds would take a look at MJ as a way to pull us out of our ecomonic woes that would put a smile on all our faces…..PLEASE WAKEUP, AMERICA!!!!
Idaho is here to.Working hard,waiting for freedom to come
This is a great victory, but keep pushin on!
Also, Dax does belong here as much as supporters alike. It is our job to help inform those that are new borns to marijuana truths as the misguided propaganda that has been passed on for generations still plagues people.
Try giving him a link to something like patent # 6630507 which counters the claim of our government saying marijuana has no medical value, yet they also have a patent that clearly proves otherwise!?
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=6630507.PN.&OS=PN/6630507&RS=PN/6630507
“a new bill will have to be introduced.”
Does this mean the same process just completed has to be done again? 🙁 – (sorry, a bit confused here).
Registered opponents of the bill are easily dismissed anymore as the facts are finally on the side of Legalization, as they (the facts) have always been.
The lame opponents are revealing their lack of intelligence in every moment that they oppose Legalization. It’s so easy to “shoot” them down anymore, no pun intended.
I certainly hope that this bill gets passed and makes ab390 legit. Prohibition is the harmful component here.
Dax, how does legalizing Marijuana in any way support substance abuse? Using Marijuana does not imply abusing it first of all, and second of all your comment makes no sense in the context of the situation whatsoever. It’s a shame people as uneducated and ignorant as you are even allowed to vote.
i hope it gets legal by 2011. when i turn 21!
it may not make it this year… but if by the grace of God it does. the other 49 states will be fighting for that bandwagon like no tomorrow.
I wonder who will make the best “pot victory” song when it happens?
It’s called FREEDOM!
i love Cali…we have the best bud and its bout to be sold in stores! fuckin right doggy
It is about time!
I’m not questioning this great news, but I’m surprized that the AFL-CIO and AFSCME supported this bill, considering that most jobs require you to pee in a cup to get or keep a job. But then, I never had a union job.
Once I get my commercial horticulture degree, I’m moving to CA. Dream Job!
So instead of receiving a tobacco scholarship I could very well be able to get a cannabis scholarship. 🙂
Mr. Armentano,
So because a new bill has to go through the whole process again when is Cali likley to see legalization? End of 2010 or 2011? Or even later?
Also, if it is passed, based on you’re experience how long (estimate)will it take for other state to follow?
[Paul Armentano responds: Other states, such as New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Washington, also have marijuana legalization bills before state lawmakers. California, as well as possibility other states (such as Washington, Oregon, and Nevada) may very well likely be voting on various forms of adult legalization/regulation — in some cases (California, possibly Washington) as soon as the November 2010 election. In short, it is impossible to predict a time line other than to say that legalization is moving forward through the states and is likely inevitable.]
whats up with comment 13 (dax). Go cry somewhere else dax. We are slowly becoming the majority if you don’t like it move to some other country and infringe on someone else’s freedoms.
Holy Smokes! Holy Smokes! You gotta really believe that this can and will happen. Almost a 100 years of failed policy,lost livelyhoods, homes, familes, and all the the money spent trying to eradicate a weed. Making people life long criminals for inhaling the smoking ember of a plant. MY GOD! It’s starting! The Green Bud Revolution! Amen, Aman, Awoman. It’s all good, Wndy!
rev.sLEEzy
TULCOTHS
Potland, OR
This is big news, i sure hope all the big media outlets run this story, so the vote can gain some traction.
Way to go Cali, rock on!!
Alcohol kills and cannibis heals.
It was a great day for marijuana reform. Let’s not forget New Jersey that has almost legalized medical marijuana (the governor’s signature is expected). It’s not perfect and there are a lot of restrictions, but if 14 states show that they can successfully help the chronically and terminally ill with opiate-free medication, it will only be so long before the federal government takes notice and reinstates federal medical marijuana.
tho the political blah blah is more forceful and positive than ever, we continue to live under the same vampire shadow of the 1970 nixon hippie hatin controlled substance act.
what we need is a few thousand stoners to surround the dea to hold hands chant and levitate … the dea, forcing the repeal of the drug war against us all.
thanks abby
In reference to the video from the posted link:
It wouldn’t surprise me if the DEA paid the first speaker of the opposition (time around 15:00) to say some crazy script. Who else would make outlandish claims that NORML and other marijuana advocates are part of an “evil scheme”. She basically claimed supporters (mainly NORML) as terrorists. Also she states that we would have to worry about bus drivers, care takers (mainly around children), and other public safety employees. Sorry, but the bill doesn’t require changing of drug testing, so your point is invalid. Maybe it’s just my altered state of mind, but it sounds possible.
[Paul Armentano responds: The first speaker for the opposition was former Deputy Drug Czar Andrea Barthwell. She was no doubt paid by the opposition to be there, as she lives in Illinois, not California. She has been spreading lies about NORML and its supporters for years. She was allotted only 3 minutes to speak, but she completely ignored the rules that the Committee Chairs and all parties had agreed to beforehand.]
The reasons that organizations and individuals oppose legalization are disgusting and irrational. In one article I read regarding this, there was a quote from a politician, who said, “Taking tax dollars in exchange for human misery is despicable and appalling.” He was referring to the fact that legalizing cannabis would cause “great social harms”, when actually it would reduce violence, increase freedom and peace, and ease the state’s revenue crisis, albeit by a little.
The misery caused to people who get arrested for possession is outrageous. If people could truly understand the horrible experiences that other humans are forced through, for a reason as stupid as holding a plant, they would not stand for this. In addition, the suppression of industrial and medical use is also horrendous, even more so than recreational.
Well this is a shot in the arm of freedom! Looks like the only opposition to show were those who enforce the lose of freedom. Well aint that just telling!
Looks as though the drug worriers will have to either do some real “serve and protect” or get a new “adrinaline booster” (job) one day, hopefully soon.
This is a big blow to the police state, a nice”We’re not gonna take it…NO! We’re not gonna take it …anymoreeee!!” Stuff that in your pipe and smoke it big brother!
Mmmm, maybe they are realizing that perscription drugs are KILLING people…everyday. Natural medication is here for a reason. Sort of like everything else the good lord has PUT here.
Cali today…. The rest of the States tomorow.
Im in Oregon and very excited and jealous…
Bad cop, no donut.
#13 dax: do you believe all use to be abuse? if so, the government already supports substance abuse by it’s tacit support of alcohol.
#13 Is from one of those support groups that lost. or the man is very uninformed, We are not compaining about Healthcare.We have said over and over again this is the Healthcare that is needed.WAKE UP AND LISTEN
I suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and i know that the medicine they give me to take for that (benzodiazipines), do not help nearly as much a marijuana.
Way to go Cali..Indiana needs to get on the ball!
“…the times they are a-chaaaaanging…”
Yes!
it should be noted that the big media outlets aren’t running the news, sad to say. It is all about control, and the media outlets fill their own pockets by bowing to big business. it is one small step, but it is a step in the right direction. we can all hang together, or we will all be hanged separately. it still applies today as much as it did in 1776. i’ve wondered out loud how “we the people” could have a national ballot initiative, by petition, of, by, and for, the people, to put the drug nazification warriors back where they came from.
[Paul Armentano responds: Every major national media outlet that I’m aware of — including the New York Times, CNN, and even Drudge — covered this story. I’m even quoted in the Christian Science Monitor’s coverage. There is no national ballot initiative, and only about one out of two states allow for statewide initiatives.]
This Vote is the best thing that has happened in my lifetime(over 40 years). It’s hard to imagine and accept that freedom is coming after decades of Republican totalitarian fascist police state rule. We all have good friends in California and if cannabis is legalized we would all love to move there. I doubt that New York state will ever become cool, it’s so dubious here!
i wonder whats gonna happen when ppl flood to cali and there is no work.then the states they leave behind will lose population aka funding and workers.
yeah the authorities would rather let child molesters aka “chomo’s” lol to go free on probation, and are fine with that, and lock up people for marijuana….hmmm i would think that theywould be more terrified about the pervs running around town than they are about adults enjoying marijuana in the comforts of their own home. Also as far as thedriving under the influence thing, there is a new breathalyzer or however you spell itcoming out soon, its already been made and i think sony made it, and it can detect if you are currently high on marijuana, alcohol….. well everything there is out there actually. so maybe someone should bring this up at these debates so they combat the statements made by the opposition?
you notice the only ones opposing the bill are the body snatchers that profit from ruining peoples lives,the cops,lawyers,prison guards. the maggots of the civilized world. cops R evil and so are judges,lawyers. restore freedom to america. It is not the land of the free. two wars,economy shot and we are spending billions to ruin lives and break up families. legalize cannabis .
Legalization for adults initiative filed in Washington State!!
http://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/initiatives/people.aspx
i hope New York is payin close attention to this ! i gotta call all my reps to see if they are aware of this amazin change in california.
13 used to be in law enforcement im sure
anyways its obvious that the law enforcement is against what is right
they have absolutely no arguement besides saying how drug use and users are immoral.
all they care about is their jobs and money, and not at all about the people and society that they SERVE. look at how easy it is for those with the power to abuse it and use it to serve their own purposes, instead of what is best for society.
this isnt the united states that i learned about in school
if this isnt truly EVIL then tell me what is
all police are is a bunch of schoolyard bullies who in in the business to bring money to the state in the form of law enforcement.
where would all those institutions be if police weren’t sending drug users (and otherwise noncriminals) to the courts and then the courts tell these people they are addicted and that they must seek treatment.
What is Califonia doing right that the rest of us aren’t?
I hope this begins a domino effect!
Number 13 “So, people want the government to support substance abuse, but still complain about healthcare? wat?”
Who the HELL said anything about “abuse”? We are talking about responsible, regulated use.
This is about cutting the throats of the drug-cartels before they, literally, cut any more real throats. This is about regulation of a plant that has always been a part of human existence. This is about repealing draconian laws based on racism, misinformation and a warped protection of pharmaceutical companies (goes without saying) and law enforcement. That’s right, I said it. Law enforcement is an organization that RELIES on causing undue harm on people to facilitate funding. It’s a revenue thing for law enforcement period. They aren’t stupid and with the volumes of scientific data on health and societal impact at hand from a myriad of sources from all over the world, they LOSE! They are fear peddlers basing their position on assumptions and emotions….WE base ours on FACTS!
What are they going to do when prison populations start to thin out? What are they going to do when their helicopter crews are grounded and are no longer needed to spend thousands of hours cruising remote areas? What are they going to do when that chunk of “crime” that they rely on for such a huge part of their lively hoods “POOF” go up in smoke? Sorry Charlie, make your money helping people, not screwing them. Focus those freed up resources on getting rid of meth, coke and heroin. Real poisons, substances that actually destroy the mind, body and spirit.
This is about freeing an individual to enjoy their lives with a SAFE alternative to the poisonous alcohol with our fear of persecution. This is about saving BILLIONS of dollars, money used to HARM people by imprisoning them and ruining their lives. Better to use this money to help people live a better quality of life. Plus the revenue it will generate will undoubtedly lead to a higher quality of life for every one as taxes relax and resources come available for the betterment of every one. Courtesy of your friendly neighborhood pot smoker.
A hand can be used to punch some one or it can be used to shake their hand. It’s time the state STOPS punching people and being a little more realistic and compassionate to the individuals desire to consume this harmless plant RESPONSIBLY.
The majority is reaching out to the state…Are we a democracy or a dictatorship?
I’m happy to see a majority yes vote, but I am not concerened about the fact that its probbaly going to die before Health gets to hear and vote on the bill. Honestly, I would rather see the people of California vote on the Marijuana Tax initiative in November and pass legalization that way just like we did for medical marijuana back in ’96. In the hands of voters the bill wont get re-written and F’d up like it would be if its voted in by legislature. GO CALIFORNIA!!!
LEGALIZE IN NOVEMBER BY VOICE OF THE PEOPLE!!!
Ok, so this is only a committee vote, it has to pass the Health Committee also. Do we really think it will? Then, how is the state going to enforce a tax on it? $50 an ounce. So, I have to add $6.25 to every 1/8th I sell or buy? I love the idea but, I dont see it affecting the state debt at all. Just means I can grow and smoke with out repercussions. How can you tax the Black Market?
Oh, and for everyone saying “time to moive to Cali” its still expensive here and growers are a dime a dozen with deep roots and Purple thumbs. Good luck!!!
If the government keeps spending money, their going to have to do something or go broke.. Im a Recreational user myself, Its no different from alcohol, the only reason its not accepted is society won’t accept it, while they set there drinking their scotch voting against it. The way marijauna is potrayed, its drugs, its bad for ya.. well alcohol isn’t good for you either and its drugs.. but they won’t tell you that..
alcohol is accepted by most of society there for its ok to drink…look in the history books at the real reason marijauna was outlawed.. It has something to do with dupont chemical company..it was outlawed then for other reasons besides consumption..and has been every since..
And I agree taxing and leagalizing it would bring revenue in for who ever is smart enough to leagalize it..
It was the same cold tired arguments from the prohib side. They act asthought legalizing wil suddenly provide the public with a product that is unabtainable now. Where dont they get that ANYONE can get it now. I see where they used amsterdam as a tool. Stated there were more criminal elemants in Amsterdam AFTER they legalized cuase they can from other countries that still had prohibition. SO, they basicly admitted that crime surrounding cannabis sales IS caused by prohibition, NOT legalization or the plant its self. If ALL nations legalized cannabis(and all drugs for that matter) taxed and regulate/educate It would remove almost all crime associated with it.
You have to know that legalizing in CA will cause crimnials to move there , may cause borderwars with other states, thats where the dominos start to fall. Many states are hooked at the hip, what one does the other eventually will to. Ever cook some good food and the smell made your neighbor hungry so they started cooking to? UUUmmm boy! cannabis does smell good huh?
I just hope Marlboro or any other big tobbacco company doesnt come in and start growing so much weed for commercial sales that us individuals with dreams to make some extra money growing what we love wont be able to because big tobbacco got the monopoly. I hope big tobacco doesnt monopoize on this.
I can’t believe this day has come, MOMENTUM IS AT AN ALL TIME HIGH!!! We must unite and stay active! Go to TheWeedBlog.Com to comment about this issue and many other issues facing marijuana consumers and medical patients.
Thank God!! There might be some sanity at the end of the tunnel after all. As for 13. Dax-If you want to try and run other people’s lives, go join the Taliban. Otherwise, I suggest you re-read the Constitution of the United States and mind your own business, which is all cannabis consumers have ever wanted. FREEDOM AND LIBERTY!!!!!
OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
It is the objective of the Genesist Faith to organize and unite its adherents throughout the world. The incentive of the Genesist Faith is, and always will be, “THE CERTAINTY OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM.” It is therefore the intent and purpose of the Genesist Faith to invoke the “FREE EXERCISE THEREOF” clause in Article I of the Constitution of the United States of America, and the Religious Freedom Act of 1993 as a “CONSCIENCE CLAUSE.” A conscience clause is a clause in a law exempting those whose religious or moral principles forbid compliance.
God/L has given us the priviledge and responsibility of “FREE CHOICE.” We have the capacity and obligation to make the kind of choices that shape the world we are a part of. It’s our “FREE CHOICES” that makes the world the way it is. Genesists are under obligation to L with liberty of conscience. A part of that obligation is the way we treat our fellow man with the inherent goodness of humanity. Therefore, Genesists lawfully assemble in our faith, holding our Constitution as absolute. Our grievance as a faith based community is that government’s intransigent denial of our religious right and spiritual activity or “FREE EXERCISE THEREOF” is absolutely unacceptable, and Genesists invoke a conscience clause.
DOCTRINE OF GENESISTS
Without exemption (circumscription-qaulification) no person(s) shall make any law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibitiing the “FREE EXERCISE THEREOF.” Genesists are free to profess and maintain their opinion in matters of religion, and the same shall in no wise diminish, enlarge, or effect their civil capacities. Genesists shall not suffer on account of their religious opinions or beliefs…for whosoever would stand on a Genesit’s path of religious freedom (individual freedom) and rattle their sword…
such act provokes infringement of the “NATURAL RIGHTS OF MANKIND,” the priviledges and advantages to which in common with their fellow Genesists, he or she has a “NATURAL RIGHT.”
I think maybe the article wasn’t detailed enough, judging by some of the comments above. Some people appear to be reading this and thinking this means pot is now legal in California… (Wish it were so.)
This was a vote by the Public Safety Committee. Next the bill would have to be approved by the Public Health Committee. THEN if it passes both of these committees, it can go to the Assembly floor for a vote. THEN it still needs to be signed by Schwarzenneger.
Since this legislation is about to expire, and will not make it through to a final vote in time, I wonder if Ammiano is going to re-introduce a new bill, or simply wait until after November, since it is almost a certainty that we will vote to end the prohibition in California on the 2010 ballot…
Excuse me, I apologize if this sounds like a stupid question…but does this mean marijuana is actually 100%, just like alcohol and tobacco, legal in California now??
Oh, nevermind. I read the other comments. Got my answer 🙁
i hope it is legal in calf. then hopefully the other states will wake up and do the same.
Time for me to move. I suffer from ulcerative colitis and mariijuana has been the best thing I have used with no side effects (except to be happy and relaxed). I am a product of the 60’s, hold a highly responsible job and have been smokin it for years. I don’t know what the police are worried about, they will certainly have jobs because of all the violent crimes.
Hey Paul. Great work as always! I was wondering what the next comittee will be and have they set a date to vote on it? Oe will the next comittee take some time to look at it
Thanks. GO Cali! Great News!
[Paul Armentano responds: I wouldn’t be surprised to see informational hearings on legalization before the Health Committee, but it appears highly unlikely that there will be additional legislative action on AB 390 this year which is why the sponsor has pledged to refile.]
Let us hope it happens soon in Queensland Australia also.
I can’t believe tax dollars was used to oppose this bill instead enforcing laws on the street. Come on now.
True, We have to nip the big greedy corporations at the bud. So as to create a more variety of sweet herbs and spread the wealth to all instead of a few…. We need the internal cash to flow in our Nation. Things are going very well as expected, lets all stand up for our liberties and freedoms. 🙂
So another freaking year till they do anything. Wow this world is crap.
[Paul Armentano responds: California’s legislature criminalized marijunaa in 1913. It is unrealistic to think that lawmakers would end a nearly 100-year policy, albeit a failed one, in one legislative session with the first bill they debate on the issue.]
well we know why the groups that were against it were…afraid to loose their JOBS…it is time to quit persecuting and prosicuting innocent individuals and putting them in prisons for weed, get it together people!
You’re right, the article wasn’t very explanitory. Carol I like your approach to educate #13, DAX, hope he reads it and pays heed.
Washington State trying to get on the ballot for November, where do we sign the petition? I went to NORML website but didn’t see anything there about it.
[Paul Armentano responds: Members of NORML’s Board of Directors and the NORML Legal Committee are the primary folks behind the proposed Washington state ballot initiative. Only registered voters in Washington state can sign the petitions, which must be circulated on the ground by volunteers or paid signature gatherers.]
I never met an agressive, or violent person on weed in the 16 years ive smoked. If the people banded together with their opinions great changes would be. I think we could be on the edge of the revolution. Power to the people. stand together and speak your opinions to all the minds that matter. We are loosing our rights constantly. I dont know anything about this stuff, but I do believe the system is extreemly corupted and if there isnt profit for the govornment, the chances of this calming, healing, natural, herb to become legal are slim to none. Get involved, donate, get your friends involved!
Did everyone see who voted no…police and police related individuals.. If its legal they dont make as much money. of course they dont want it legal..
please pay att. georgia it needs to be legal!!!!! were adults and live in a (free country)we should be able to make the dicision to smoke if we want!!!!
way to go cali.
A letter sent to the Ways and Means Committee
Yesterday,a committee in the California Assemblyvoted yes to the legalization of marijuana.
Polls across this nation show that a majority of Americans support legalization.
There are 14 states that recognize marijuana as an alternative medication.
The US Attorney General has implemented a “Medical Marijuana Policy”.
Every study of marijuana requested by our congress has recommended that marijuana be removed from schedule 1.
Our government has spent over one trillion dollars since President Nixon declared war on the citizens of America and over 1/2 of that was used interdicting,eradicating and enforcing laws against marijuana.
Over 1/2 of the budget of the ONDCP is used
fighting marijuana and they are asking for a bigger budget this year for continuing their programs that the only success they can claim is the spending of their budget.
Please end this insanity. And to continue doing the same thing,year after year,the same way and expect any different outcome is insane.
Please stop funding the war on marijuana,it is a waste of our tax dollars and has accomplished nothing but the ruination of millions of American citizens lives by giving them a criminal record and reducing their life earning potential.
Marijuana does not fit the description of a schedule 1 drug because,apparently it does have medical applications and for our congress to continue spending money on this issue is a gross waste of our resources and time,regardless of how much money various lobbies pay our legislators to continue doing so.
Thanks for the response to my question Paul! I know you are a busy man, so it is much appreciated! I guess we will see how the ballot iniative will go in November. I am sure it will be interesting!
To all the tokers out there: keep up the talking! If we can all convince one or two people against us to be pro-legalisation we will win for sure. As to everyone complaining about the process not going fast enough you have no one to blame but yourselves, get out there and make it happen! We will legalize it; the speed at which it happens depends a hell of lot on our own activism. Time to stop living in fear!!!
Not seeing any pharmaceutical companies funding or being the opposition makes me wonder if they have their own plan for or sweet cannabis. I’m used to seeing them under opposition. But yes the current opposition is definantly looking for the other green. (added by Mobile using Mippin)
Hey everybody… I watched the entire event on the California channel and although our leaders were fewer in numbers than the other side our guys provided bottm line, verifiable data. Our leaders spoke the truth and I want to commend each of you and say thanks again for representing the cause to legalized cannabis once and for all. Also please never forget even though many such as myself can’t be there physically when you are defending the cause we are there with you in spirit!
If California “legalizes the production, distribution, and personal use of marijuana” I am moving back to Cali!
I find is very interesting that the organizations that are appossed to this bill, are the same ones that profit off it being illegal!! Like the Corproate code enforcement officer that Arrest you and take your property to profit themselves. By legalizing Marijuana and hemp, farmers can start producing fabric, fuel, and so much more… Think of the huge possibility that this wonder seed can do for our environment along.. Did you know that Henry Ford designed the first model T to run on Hemp oil?
This is great news! I look forward to more of this type of momentum in the very near future. The house of cards known as the ‘War on Drugs’ is falling apart as we watch. historic times my friends, historic times!
The fact that people are being punished for the possession of cannabis is for me, and anyone else that has been affected by it, devastating.
When it hurts no one and can in fact save lives! In many different ways we must ask why? The fact of the matter is the drug war is revolving around and is funded from pot smokers. The drug the hurts the least and helps the most??? please lets fix this i beg everyone and i have to say this puts a smile to my face finely seeing a light at the end of this tunnel we must not discriminate anyone for anything and must have love for everyone no matter what problems you may have and all work together to make our people have a far country.
Free all all non violent drug offenders! Peace and love is the only way to live your life smokes some cannabis and enjoy the meditation that is blesses you with, and help everyone to understand that no mater how young or old we must tell the true about drugs so we can at lease worry about what hurts and what helps. And for thoughts people that have a life threatening drug addiction we will give them our care and love to see to it that they get better if they want help if they are a threat to others than they should be taken away from the rest of society. But humans are not meant to be in cages and treated like a slave over a plant or crack rock so fuck your perfect life and do what is RIGHT!!! love everyone.
Like honestly we are all brothers and sisters no matter what. We need to focus on what is real and not just money and bullshit get real. Lets please make the right decision PEACE LOVE HAPPINESS!
lets all please stay realistic in hard times stop hurting ppl and taking from families
thankyou!
Paul,
I work as a PCA (Personal Care Attendant) for an individual who was 80% paralyzed almost thirty years ago. Today while I was at his house helping him by preparing food, etc; he was reviewing applications annd considering who to hire to replace one of his assitants who moved and he mentioned one of them had a drug conviction for marijuana. I replied that if he had volunteered that information he’s probably alright… with a cautious tone. My client’s reply surprised me:
He told me that just because someone had a drug charge that doesn’t mean they’re a bad person, and that it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to do daily tasks anyway. He seemed to suggest he’d rather have a reliable stoned assitant than an unreliable one who drinks in excess.
It put a smile on my face. I never go to work high, because the stoned/sober communication barrier can be annoying. But it’s nice to find someone who isn’t necessarily involved in the weed or no weed debate be rational and fair about it.
This isn’t the first time the topic has arisen due to my involvement with the disabled-help line of work. I recently attended the Kansas Disability Caucus and driving the van to Topeka two of the women attending had a very fervent opinion that it should be legal, particularly because of it’s medical benifits. They acknowledged that while it may not cure cancer, or arthritis, etc, it can relieve the pain.
Maybe they should set up a committee to study the committee, then they could evaluate a committee to commit to the committee, so they can deny the committee, then they could re-evaluate the comm………What a fucked up system ! Re-legalize you fools so we can pull our country from the abyss you’ve created ! You go Cali. Free the flower !
Here’s my $0.02.
There are so many ways to get rid of the criminal/violent/cartel element surrounding cannabis from our country, but they all revolve around it’s liberalization. One way is like we all are pushing for – which is regulating it like alcohol. However, another way is to make it partially legal – which means you are permitted to grow and possess it inside your home. Head shops could sell seeds and starter kits, as well as foods made from it (brownies, cookies, teas, etc). Also, you woulkd be allowed to transport so much processed bud (aboout an oz or two) for medicine, parties or gifts. Either system, I would be estatic about, but the first would be so much better.
It’s just this simple. If one (1) human being took over the world, that one(1) human being would “fear the rest of us.” So! there is safety in numbers. That one (1) human being saw the same “85% in favor” as we did.We must never let our number get less than that one’s ability to rule us…amen.
RECRUIT…RECRUIT…RECRUIT.
hell ya
Very happy about this, but to those who think legalizing marijuana will “end California’s debt problems”, you are all completely deluded. Sure, there will be a nice profit from taxation that will make a significant difference, but saying this will “wipe out” the state debt is entirely asinine. People who think like this and voice their nonsense give educated marijuana-users a bad rap.
Be happy and support what you can locally, but leave the economical aspects of legalization to the professionals who aren’t full of hot air (no phD economist has or would ever claim legalization will completely erase Cali’s debt).
O.K. People.Marijuana has proven to cure cancer so what is the argument against it when we have tobbacco that kills thousands of people each year and Alcohol the same.
[Editor’s note: To date there is no scientific proof that cannabis ‘cures’ cancer…Is there some promise for such? Yes. Has cannabis been scientifically proven to be a cure for cancer? No, not yet.]
O.K. People.Marijuana has proven to cure cancer so what is the argument against it when we have tobbacco and Alcohol the same.Lets legalize Marijuana and use it responsibly along with alcohol and tobbaco if we choose so.For Life, Liberty and the persuit of happiness.HOORAY FOR CALIFORNIA AND THE GOOD OLE USA!!!!!
[Editor’s note: To date there is no scientific proof that cannabis ‘cures’ cancer…Is there some promise for such? Yes. Has cannabis been scientifically proven to be a cure for cancer? No, not yet.]
we have the power to fix this some day people will look at drug policy like we look at women’s rights and slavery. it will be a no brainer and people will wonder why the fuck this even happened
Here’s my little thing, all these stupid law makers can go to hell. I’m not saying that NORML is not doing the greatest job in the world but…. LET’S JUST VOTE ON IT IN NOVEMBER!!!!!!!!! They always tell us if, we the people don’t like the laws then to change them. Well ok we will!! Just get it on the ballot for November and we will see what happens. When they see how many votes there is to regulate marijuana there going to crap there pants. Don’t you guys ever forget that the people run this country not the government. So register to vote and ROCK THE VOTE in November. WE CAN DO IT!!!!!!
Jeremy Campbell (PROUD MARIJUANA SMOKER)
Bakersfield, California
way to go cali, we here in BC support you big time. lol. even though it will drive the price of our bud way down. PS no one grows it like BC.
I CANT SMOKE BUD DUE TO NEW RANDOM DRUG TESTING AT MY EMPLOYER THE FIRST STATE THAT MAKES BUD LEGAL IM MOVING THERE GO GUYS GO BTW IN MICHIGAN A MEDICAL MARIJUANA STATE THERE TRYING TO CHANGE THE LAWS SO FOLKS CANT GROW THERE OWN BUD RIGHT NOW THATS THE ONLY WAY TO GET IT BESIDES FROM AN LEGAL POT DEALER OF COURSE THUS MAKING IT HARDER TO GET KEEP FIGHTING CAUSE ID REALLY LIKE TO BE HIGH RIGHT NOW
This is a step in the right direction. (added by Mobile using Mippin)