House lawmakers introduced legislation in Congress today to end the federal criminalization of the personal use of marijuana.
The bipartisan measure, HR 2306 – entitled the ‘Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2011’ and sponsored by Massachusetts Democrat Barney Frank and Texas Republican Ron Paul along with Reps. Cohen (D-TN), Conyers (D-MI), Polis (D-CO), and Lee (D-CA) – prohibits the federal government from prosecuting adults who use or possess marijuana by removing the plant and its primary psychoactive constituent, THC, from the five schedules of the United States Controlled Substances Act of 1970. Under present law, all varieties of the marijuana plant are defined as illicit Schedule I controlled substances, defined as possessing ‘a high potential for abuse,’ and ‘no currently accepted medical use in treatment.’
Said Rep. Frank, “Criminally prosecuting adults for making the choice to smoke marijuana is a waste of law enforcement resources and an intrusion on personal freedom. I do not advocate urging people to smoke marijuana, neither do I urge them to drink alcoholic beverages or smoke tobacco, but in none of these cases do I think prohibition enforced by criminal sanctions is good public policy.”
The ‘Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act’ seeks to federally deregulate the personal possession and use of marijuana by adults. It marks the first time that members of Congress have introduced legislation to eliminate the federal criminalization of marijuana since the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937.
Language in this Act mimics changes enacted by Congress to repeal the federal prohibition of alcohol. Passage of this measure would remove the existing conflict between federal law and the laws of those sixteen states that allow for the limited use of marijuana under a physicians’ supervision. It would also allow state governments that wish to fully legalize and regulate the responsible use, possession, production, and intrastate distribution of marijuana for all adults to be free to do so without federal interference. (To date, lawmakers in six states have introduced legislation to legalize and regulate the adult use of cannabis, and separate statewide initiative measures are planned for 2012 in several additional states.)
Speaking in support of the measure, NORML Executive Director Allen St. Pierre said, “The federal criminalization of marijuana has failed to reduce the public’s demand or access to cannabis, and it has imposed enormous fiscal and human costs upon the American people. It is time to end this failed public policy and to provide state governments with the freedom to enact alternative strategies — such as medicalization, decriminalization, and/or legalization — without running afoul of the federal law or the whims of the Department of Justice.”
You can read the full text of Allen’s remarks from today’s press conference, which is being reported today by major news outlets nationwide, here.
NORML, along with representatives from the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP), and the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP), worked closely with members of Congress in drafting the measure.
Additional information regarding this measure is available from NORML’s ‘Take Action Center’ here.
AFTERNOON UPDATE:
Below is video of co-sponsor Steven Cohen (D-TN) speaking on the House floor today in favor of HR 2306: Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2011.
I am a Disabled American whom would like to know how I could go about getting a Medical Marijuana Card in Tennessee or suggestions as to what to do.
I moved down here 3 years ago after being falsely arrested & legally searched with my kids taken all cause I smoked Marijuana and refused to take opium based mental health governmental pills that made me a cutter and inflict physical abuse on myself when I came off.
Also anything I can do in the campaign to legalize please let me know.
Sincerely
Elizabeth Isaacson
I read this while listening to Mississippi Half-step, and finally felt happy reading something coming out of american politics.
It’s time to stop the Lies and Legalize! The Drug War has cost more in lives and money than the Legalization of Marijuana ever would. The cost to educate and to rehabilitate would be far less the actual War has cost. To be put in jail for using a substance is ludicrous; this helps no one and only helps to destroy families. I would rather see my money go towards rehabilitating someone.
I say Legalize it!
I HOPE THIS PASSES I USED IT FOR MEDICAL REASONS..THEN I WAS GROWING MY OWN BEHIND MY HOUSE THE POLICE HAD THE WRONG ADDRESS..SURROUNDED MY HOUSE LOOKING FOR SOMEBODY I NEVER HEARD OF…AND BAM I WAS TREATED AWFUL SCARED MY KIDS TO DEATH NEVER HAD A CRIMINAL RECORD IN MY LIFE..NOW IM A CONVICTED FELON..CAN’T GET A JOB NO WHERE..AND THEN DID THE RIGHT THING WENT TO DOCTOR AND OH MY GOSH IM NOW ON 240 OXYCODONE A MONTH ..I HAVE A VERY BAD BACK CONDITION BUT MAN THE ADDICTION UNREAL..THAT’S THE WORSE CHOICE I EVER MADE BUT COULD NOT LIVE WITH THE PAIN..WHAT HAPPENED TO LIBERTY AND BEING FREE IN OUR HOMES..HOW COULD THEY DO THIS TO ME I CAN’T HARDLY FEED MY KIDS CAUSE I CAN’T GET A GOOD JOB..BEFORE THIS HAD JOB MAKING 60’000 A YR NOW IM ADDICTED TO THE PAIN KILLERS..AND A FELON..WE GOT TO GIVE PEOPLE CHOICES NOT THE PAIN KILLERS HAVE TOOK OVER THIS COUNTRY..
The war on drugs has failed from every conceivable angle. It’s time to look at other options.
Anyone know when they would vote on this or when it would take place if passed?
Its About Damn Time.
Finally,lawmakers are debating something that matters and has relevance to the people.Let’s face it,taxes will always go up,politicians will always break their promises,and war is inevitable.But allowing honest citizens to partake in an American product to help ease our stress ans improve our moods really would make a difference.I say we track the vote record of this new proposal and go across the Congressional board,whether Dem. or Rep. and vote for who votes yes.
I’m not a smoker myself, but I have always thought people should be free to smoke marijuana if they choose. It’d probably not 100% harmless, but it’s FAR less harmful than alcohol or tobacco HANDS DOWN. People don’t smoke pot then beat there wives and say “Oh I was just so stoned, I don’t know what came over me” NO! People just get tired and the worst thing they do is neglect there daily to-do list or something to that effect. It only causes problems because of the legality. Lives are not ruined by weed, lives are ruined by weed being punishable by law! It’s RIDICULOUS!
http://www.cnbc.com/id/43510348
cnbc is having a poll to see if people think marijuana should be legal vote now!!!
Urge Congress to Pass HR 2306 & Decriminalize Pot
As millions of pot smokers know, this is basically a harmless drug. In fact, it has numerous beneficial properties. It eases many kinds of pain, such as joint pain, stomach ailments, nausea, and even depression.
Once legal, its sale will create jobs in farming, distribution, and small businesses. Tax money will come in to all levels of government, elected officials will be sure that happens! Its sale and use can be regulated by zoning laws and driving laws.
More importantly, look at the carnage being caused by gang warfare in Mexico over the power to sell pot and other drugs to American consumers. Just as the 18th Amd prohibition on booze gave rise to organized crime 70 years ago, so the prohibition on pot is a major cause of organized crime today. Repealing that dumb law put an end to alcohol related organized crime. Remember what Einstein said about folks who keep doing the same thing, expecting different results? Lets learn from history, and do what we know works.
Finally, and most importantly, thousands of young lives have been ruined. Not by pot itself, but by being unlucky enough to get busted for its mere possession. The pot prohibition is one of our most unjust laws. Why should so many youths have their lives trashed, lives that are full of promise, and who have so much to contribute to our society, by being sent to prison, and branded a criminal, for using a substance that does little more than make them relaxed and happy for a while?
William J. Kelleher, Ph.D.
Internetvoting@gmail.com
Twitter: wjkno1
it would be the best thing they ever did and they would see more money
and jobs come in when they did so i say Legalize it ppl
I am so happy to read this, I have chills!!! Way to go to the politicians who aren’t in big pharma’s pockets and shame on any legislator that doesn’t do his own research and self education about this plant…..It is something that has the potential to save the planet from us abuseing natural resources…I have one question, what will Obama do when it passes? Laugh? I think not!
Its about time something like this happens. And Allen i feel you. My mom has been fighting that struggle for a long time. Just know there is help out there. Im glad the government is doing this. thats probably the best thing ive seen out of them in A LONG TIME. Finally good hard working people that arent out there robbing and shooting people will finally be able to do something NATURAL without prosecution. Alot of what they consider to be “potheads” are people that get up and go to their 9 to 5 and make legal money, and raise their families, dont have anything on their record but Pot possessions and have never really been in any kind of other trouble
The “War on Drugs” is not a failure for the profiteers, just for the majority who call the United States home. It is they who suffer in blood and treasure as this absurd charade keeps pressing forward.
I hope Congress take measures to read this bill and see that it gets passed. It is time to change marijuana laws and the American people demand it. Marijuana needs to be taxed and regulated like cigs and alcohol.
Remember to call or email your congressman. Put the pressure on them to pass the bill!
The Liberty Bell should ring on this one if it this law pass. This would be the American Renaissance and a better life to all. People will become more sociable. It is also good for local law enforcement in many ways.
American is finally growing up and no longer needs a nanny.
I would rather smoke pot than have a horrendous addiction to oxycodone, and I wouldn’t mind paying a tax on my pot, it does work on chronic pain to Allen, I hope you overcome your addiction and the President hears us. Other than smoking pot, I am a law abiding citizen.
reading what allen said makes me feel awful that our government would actually prescribe REAL man-made drugs that purposely addicts a patient so they can reap the benefits. not only can he not find a job because of a non-violent “crime”, but now he can not feed his own children?? not to mention, i wouldn’t be crazy to believe he couldn’t afford his medication? all because a bit of weed that was doing a better job already and he wasn’t selling illegally? this makes me sick! our government is and has been sick minded and foolish. to brainwash millions into thinking they had our backs when actually we are their puppets. how can you ruin an innocent man and his family’s life like that and not feel guilty? pathetic. FINALLY i’m ecstatic to know that we have level-minded human beings that have common sense with power. We will change for the better and it all starts with the renewed voice of the people. Ron Paul for president!
The war on drugs, especially marijuana. What a waste of tax payers money, law enforcement crime, etc. Allen, I feel for your case. 240 Oxycodone… ewww weee… I tell ya. But remember folks, don’t forget about the pharmaceutical lobbyists who help the political parties in office. That would be like cutting their nose off to spite their face. Oh my, if one drug did wonders and helped so many people, and it’s a plant… what does that mean for us say the lobbyist, so they give more money to congress, so that congress will not pass these things and those like Allen have to suffer with paying the copay for insurance on his drugs, which also pay for the pharmaceuticals that are provided to them. It’s all crooked, but maybe one day it will get straightened out.
Frank & Paul… remember the decrim bill? this means NOTHING.
I appreciate the effort, but this bill doesn’t have a chance. Not with the big gov, nanny-state, command and control social conservatives in the house and the drug-warrior-in-chief in the white house. Some day we will get it right, but not this day.
My mother was diagnosed with cancer when I was 11, she fought very hard for over 5 years before succumbing to lung cancer. My mother smoked pot for most of her radiation and chemotherapy treatments, and it did nothing but help her. I saw her eating more, less ravaged from pain, and until a few years later I didn’t even realize it was illegal. Seeing the daily effect of marijuana on my mother, I drew an easy conclusion, at the age of 12, that it had no more harmful an effect than alcohol. I urge everyone reading this article to write their congressman an urge them to pass such a commonsense bill. Help this country realize it has no right to inhibit such a simple freedom. Thank you.
Brian – age 20
Hey, It’s time to stop the Lies and Legalize! The Drug War has cost more in lives and money than the Legalization of Marijuana ever would. The cost to educate and to rehabilitate would be far less the actual War has cost. To be put in jail for using a substance is ludicrous; this helps no one and only helps to destroy families. I would rather see my money go towards rehabilitating someone. OK!
There never was a war on drugs. It is all just steps to a global feudal system with the common man as the serfs. We should be evolving new systems to have peace. As the world evolves so should the way we view reality.
Not only is Marijuana harmless compared to Cigarettes and Alcohol, but if legalized, we can make billions off tax revenue. Save billions and billions our government spends on marijuana prohibitions. Save billions on the money they spend keeping harmless innocent people in prison or jail for simple possession. Open up millions of jobs. Actually helping our economy tremendously. Not to mention, have much less crime and violence in the drug trade, getting drug dealers out of business. Come on and have some guts to do what is right. RON PAUL FOR PRESIDENT!
Legalize it already!
The Government has had far too much control over the population and this has to change.I have NEVER been convinced that they are looking out for us,if that were the case cigarettes and alcohol would be eradicated instead of a HARMLESS medicinal plant.Legalize and tax it!!Our broke ass Country needs the revenue!!!
As long as cannabis has industrial applications that can displace petroleum products, it will remain illegal. Sorry, but the oil companies have Congress in their pocket still.
It was never about the psychoactive effects, but rather about its industrial uses (plastic, fuel, fabric, lubricants, etc.)
Oh Happpyyy DAY
Thanks NORML for all you do! I was on the live call and Allen was awesome! Nugs and hugs!
obama blew it, maybe the next president will wake up and smell the “buds”. come on america this is right For all of us!
legalize and support the millions fighting for the real issue america has. Fuck healthcare reform!
I agree with Cory! More jobs!!
If the government controls the pot none of us regular people will be able to find/afford it. It will not end drug dealers, it will just make the government work WITH the drug dealers. In a perfect world this would be fantastic, but it is not a perfect world and this will end badly I’m afraid. Everyone just needs to be smarter and not get caught…. Or you know ~Allen~ Don’t grow it in your back yard. We need more money going in education then in drug use. I smoke everyday and I have for 5 years now, but until the government does ONE THING RIGHT, they’re just going to fuck it up for everyone and still fail. That is all.
Alternet is reporting this bill as “largely symbolic.” That pisses me off. I want to see it passed.
But how will we subdue the dark people here in America? What about our; Prison industry? LEOs? Pharma? Oh, and our children?
Maybe some day soon, we will notice just how badly our criminalization of MJ depletes our resources and society. And CHANGE the law.
Won’t this measure have make it through some committee before it can be voted on? What are the chances it will even reach the floor for a vote? Still, it’s heartening that a handful of congressmen are willing to attach their names to this proposal.
The war on drugs, the war on literacy, etc….ALL have made things worse. Now, Mobama has the war on fat. We are about to become a very large country, individually speaking.
I hope especially all the mmj patients get behind this NOW. Remember all you patients, your just one memo away from Federal prosecution. The next “social conservative” to make it in the White House could easily undo ALL the recent progress made by the states. We need to strike now while the irons hot folks. This bill truly would turn Cannabis Law into a states rights issue. Please contact your representative & let them hear your voice!!
I also have a very bad back i had a spinal fusion due to a fracture of my spine during a work accident. My meds are as follows 8 percocett 10mg per day 1 75mg Fyntanol patch every 48 hrs 6 valiums 5 mg per day 1 6.5mg Ambian per night to help me sleep. 1 20mg Lexapro for depression as my accident has ruined whatever kind of normalcy to life i had. 1
Hey Paul,
Thanks for sharing this great news! I am curious to know the timeframe we can expect to see for passing such a bill as well as how likely it may be to pass in the senate and executive/judicial branches. America really needs something like this for many reasons, but I know all too well not to get my hopes up that this has actual potential yet, since it has only begun the legislative labyrinth. Thanks again and my fingers are crossed for HR2306
Mike in CA
You know, where we just voted down MJ reform…
Legalize, legitimize, and lower the deficit. People are gonna use it regardless, it is assinin not to regulate & tax it, as well as legalize cultivation for personal use.
Legalization will be an important step in the restoration of personal freedoms in the United States of America.
I also have a very bad back i had a spinal fusion due to a fracture of my spine during a work accident. My meds are as follows 8 percocett 10mg per day.. 1 75mg Fyntanol patch every 48 hrs… 6 Valiums 5 mg per day.. 1 6.5mg Ambian per night to help me sleep… 1 20 mg Lexapro for depression as my accident has ruined whatever kind of normalcy to life i had. 1 proton-ix for stomach because of all the medication i am taking messes with my stomach. I can not do anything i enjoyed that includes golf actually any kind of sports or activity i will not be able to pick up my grandchildren i will be in severe pain the rest of my life so i am prescribed all these drugs for pain. Now i am not into doing illegal drugs just for the reason Allen above has detailed but i would like the choice of making the decision on weather or not i can take medical Marijuana to see if i can get relief from pain instead of government and local police getting involved in a choice that i can make for myself. Is it ok for medical personal to give me medication that will kill my liver, Kidneys and create more medical problems for me down the road because pharmaceutical companies want to keep Medical Marijuana out because they can not duplicate what it does in pill form and take control of that market. Is it fair that Police departments and courts lawyers and so many more want to keep it law to have job security for themselves. I say give me the right to try it if it does not work for me then it does not but if it does i want to make that choice the choice of Medical Marijuana or the choice of continuing to take medication that is addictive and is also killing me at the same time by that i mean liver, kidney and so on. Have you ever heard of anyone having to have blood tests every 3 months to check there live and kidney levels because they use marijuana? but i bet everyone that is taking these potent pills gets that test what does that tell ya. I say give the people the right to choose and government stay out of it. I am waiting for the chance to try it like i said before i wont do it now beacuase it is not legal i want to in the worse way i would love to try it but i am so afraid of what happened to Alex happening to me ans so my suffering goes on and there might be help for me that is naturally grown and will not cause me liver kidney and who else knows after using these prescription meds over the rest of my life so i am told. So i am asking any government or state officials think of the person that this could help and not what is good for your own self interest. I need to try something new give me the choice.
Legalize for Medical use at least while making decisions on legalization for all.
I wish this bill would pass, but they are up against a massive machine that spends tens of billions each year to employ hundreds of thousands of people, and there are millions of citizens who have been brainwashed with propaganda for generations.
I can already hear the good people criticizing this bill by merely repeating lies that were drilled into their heads by the machine.
I guess there is a glimmer of hope because I was one of those zombies just two years ago. We can awaken. But it’s like waking up in the Matrix because people think that I’m nuts now. I don’t even smoke pot, but I am infuriated by the massive deception and injustices.
Like Allen above, I’m now a convicted felon because I chose to grow my own medicine that was more effective and less harmful that what was prescribed to me in the place of marijuana. I’ve had to go on disability and am on Fentanyl patches to subdue the pain that I was treating more effectively with marijuana. I’m a Viet Nam Veteran, a patriot and a law abiding citizen who now has a felony conviction because of unfair laws! I can no longer own a gun to protect my home & family or hunt for food if I should so chose, all because of greedy politicians who pass stupid laws to help their friends get richer. I can legally go out and buy cigarettes which have been proven to be the most deadly substance in society today but I can’t use marijuana which has never hurt a single person on earth. The US has less than 5% of the population on earth and over half of the lawyers. It’s no wonder things are so screwed up!
now is the time to contact every congressman and senator, tell them they work for you and the original Constitution. use the petitions, talk to people, tell them to use the petitions. use the phone, make a call. now is the time to vote!
I live in CA, have a medical license to consume cannibis, and my life is all the better because of it! My life spiraled out of control when I was treated for depression by putting me on zombie medicine. I honestly watched with no emotion as my wife told me that she and my 3 beautiful kids are leaving me. Prescription drugs are worse by far than pot, which has centuries of use to back it up. One more thing, it doesn’t kill brain cells! They performed a study which said it does, but the study was slanted, they made the monkey smoke so much, that there literally wasn’t any oxygen going to the brain! Thus the loss of brain cells. I hope for all of us, that this passes, it is a good thing. Keeping it illegal just plays into the hands of those that would destroy our great nation.
do your duty congress! the people have spoken … legalize NOW!
You’re all crazy. That is all.
Oh my gosh I don’t really know what to say. I can’t believe this is really happening. Thank you, thank you to our brave congressmen and women who are willing to stand up and be our voice. And thank you Norml for EVERYTHING you do.
Ron Paul? The Ron Paul that everyone has their hopes up for? Isn’t he the one that a certain Marijuana Reform website editor was saying “Ron Paul was a waste of a vote and has no chance in winning a primary” much less an election? Hmmm…. He’s got my vote!!! There’s enough MMJ patients and regular users to do damage at the polls. That is if they can remember to vote when the time comes! Finally, so many people will benefit from this. Not only from a medical stand point but a textile one as well. Hope it passes!
no reason for this not to pass. its stupid!!! you dont have to smoke or even like it but we should have the choice
A “No VOTE’ would indicate political suicide in 2012. It’s really that simple. Weed them out.
Fantastic!! Indiana has 2 bills that go into effect July 1, 2011. senate bill 568. Drug testing for public assistance recipients. House bill 1267 Drug testing for Unemployment recipients. SOS. Looking for like minded people to help stop this act. People it gets cold here in Indiana. No checks for these people in the winter? no food assistance. Sounds like genocide.
Looking for people to form a Norml Chapter in South Bend, Indiana. contact hightimeministry@yahoo.com
Steve Cohen is the shit. Hands Down the most dangerous side effect from cannabis is being arrested its ridiculous this WILL NOT pass for obvious reasons but I am glad its on the table 🙂
The bill being introduce is good news. First the House has to pass it, then the Senate, then the President has to sign it. I am not celebrating until all three happen. I also want full legalization. They could put restrictions on minors and driving. Full legalization!
Worth Repeating:
“Narcotics police are an enormous international bureaucracy…and now fund a coterie of researchers who provide them with ‘scientific support’…fanatics who distort the legitimate research of others…the anti-marijuana campaign is a cancerous tissue of lies, undermining law enforcement, aggravating the drug problem, depriving the sick of needed help, and suckering well-intentioned conservatives and countless frightened parents”. William F. Buckley, National Review, April 29, 1983, p.495
The problem I foresee is that we live in a police state. The military-police complex makes a lot of money from the police state. I would love to see this pass and will do my part. But I don’t see a majority of the self-appointed morality chaperones we have over us (aka our congressional and senatorial overlords)voting for this. We live in a country ruled by a government that would rather let us all go broke and founder in the morass of poverty than ever admit to being wrong. That’s why you can’t buy cigars from Cuba, speaking of other kinds of smokes. Our government won’t ever admit that the Cuban Embargo only hurts the average Cuban and does nothing at all productive. It is the government equivalent of the schoolyard “Billy hurt my feelings so I won’t talk to him ever again!”
Indeed, our government is run by such people. Our government cannot ever admit to losing a war. Um, uh, we didn’t lose Vietnam, um, it was a noble cause! Yeah, see! Um, we didn’t lose in Iraq! Um, it was a tie! So it is with the “War on Drugs”. They can’t admit they failed and were wrong. So they’ll keep this charade limping along like a broken cart pulled by a dying horse. The horse will die and they’ll beat the horse.
IF THE US GOV WANTS MY POT TAX MONEY RATHER THAN THE MEXICAN DRUG CARTELS THEY BETTER MAKE THIS HAPPEN! WWAKE UP US CONGRESS IT IS 2011` not 1937 , pot has medical value , largest cash crop and SAFE!~
whiskey is legal , tobbacco the worlds largest killer is legal but pot is not legal yet ? oh a scam to keep high prices and support terror or deathin 3rd world countries? i do not think i’m stupid , yet feel the gov is totally out of touch with reality! MAKE POT LEGAL TODAY!
What an awesome milestone 🙂
In this country, we tend to have wars directly with an enemy that can’t even fight back. It’s up to the American people to end this drug war and put the states fully in control of it’s regulation. Just like alcohol, states can mandate the distribution, and it makes everyone happy. And to be ignorant enough to say it doesn’t have medicinal qualities should be disregarded completely.
I realize it’s up for young citizens like myself to take a stand on this prohibition, and realize it’s destruction on the US in numerous sanctions.
Legalize That Weed! It’s not harmful, just makes you laugh and get the munchies! Haha. It will also bring more jobs and money from its taxes if it ends up legal, I just hope it does.
tax it, sell permiys to grow it, pay the national debt, duh ~
CNBC Poll
Should Marijuana ever be legal?
No
5%
Yes
91%
For medical reasons only
4%
Total Votes: 35101
as of 10:15AM Eastern Time
Poll is not scientific
There is no Constitutional law against possession now. The government ships in illegal drugs and bans the use of them after making a profit, so scheduling by this organization in question has nothing to do with health but illegal commerce for taxation without representation.
It prevents cancer so is a medicine everybody has a right to but we did before because
Cannabis is a HUMAN RIGHT.
Lets adopt some smart ideas from other countries who have forged ahead and made great headway towards acceptance and integration .We could learn quickly and adapt or hold up inevitableprogress .Education/passing new laws and absolute productquality and a 50%/50% privately owned/government controlled adequate supply are key now .Enough green thumbs outthere ,right?”seven mile boots” are called for .
Ignostu@gmail.com
NOW! Would be a perfect time to expect greater wisdom from our elected representatives. “We will wait and we will see.” I don’t anticipate sound judgment – because – they have lost their way. It takes a higher courage to confront the truth. It takes no courage or conscience to do what they have been doing.
It has been darkness – but – can we lead our fellow Americans into the light? The American people have been viciously and with toxicity lied to [a complete and total fraud] – plain and simple. The problem that is prevalent is – “We won’t admit that we have been dooped.” It’s an embarrassment we can’t handle.
So! – when we refer to the evils of power – we must also consider the “cause” as well as the “effect.” When one, in a position of power, has someone kneeling at their feet, tugging on their pant leg, pleading “Oh – please, please, please” – it’s pretty hard to let go of the “God Syndrome” – and – it quickly becomes habitual and second nature for the pro-corruption candidate. It takes a very strong individual to resist the temptation of corruption when “Oh – please, please, please – has $$$ accompanying it.” The temptation is great – and sometimes – one can be bought for a song. So! – taking human nature into consideration – and – the temptation evil lavishes on one – it’s no wonder – and – comes as no great surprise – what the power brokers are all about. But – it should also come as no surprise – that they can just as easily be knocked off their horse as they got on – through the power of We the People, and our power to vote. 2012 will tell the tale. A “NO VOTE” will certainly be committing political suicide.
I AM APPALLED AT THE STUPIDITY OF OUR CONGRESS , ALL DRUGS SHOULD BE LEGAL TAXED AND REGULATED , MORPHINE COMES FROM POPPIES , ILLEGAL , POT , HELPS CANCER , NAUSEA, CONSTIPATION , ASK A CHINA MAN , POT SEEDS ARE USED IN A CHINA CRAPPER RECIPE , IT WORKS!RESCEDUAL, LET ME TAKE 5 MILIION FROM KONA TO KEEP THE LIBRARY IN OAKLAND,CA OPEN 24/7 , THE CITY CANT AFFORD TO , BUT I COULD AND PAY FOR A NUKE BOMB OR 2 ALSO! WAKE UP!
69. Jack Jones
The Constitution and the Supreme Court already makes it clear that the states have the sovereign right to control substances. All We the People have to do is get the feds to “obey the law.” Alchemy is a terrible thing in the wrong hands – and brother – it’s definitely in the wrong hands.
IF THEY WANT TO KEEP POT OUT OF TEENS HANDS , THEY WOULD MAKE IT LEGAL .oH , THEY JUST LIE AND ARE IN DENIAL!~
I wouldn’t get your hopes up. The Federal government has gone completely rogue. If this passes they will still come after people, it will take a revolution to stop them at this point. They are out of control. Here’s hoping though! We all want the suffering to end.
Allen (post 5) is a perfect example of why this needs to be decriminalized. The criminals are the pharmaceutical companies and the FDA!!! They own this government! I very rarely took prescription meds, I used herbs and homeopathy. I didn’t even take tylenol, except in extreme cases (when a doctor would want to prescribe pain killers). I began to suffer from anxiety. Zoloft was brand new and I was promised it would be short term. It alters you ever so slowly. It destroyed my life! They kept me on it for YeARS, becasue once I took it, I could not get off without suffering massive anxiety – and then depression (which I did not have before!! It destroyed my life. Xanax they also gave me. I hated it. FACT: If I could have taken a small amount of marijuana – not to get high but to get passed the panic, I would have been fine! It’s not addictive as people think. Marijuana would do better than xanax – without the side effects of xanax! But, hey, now we a high % of our population hopelessly – brain chemically – addicted to anti-anxiety meds and worse then ever – and on xanax (which I do not take). Yes, the pharmaceuticals and the FDA are the criminals! Just like when they REFUSE to label when our food is altered, and cows were treated with hormones – and when the hormone free companies tried to label theirs because THE PEOPLE wanted to knowr! – the FDA went and said THEY had to place a warning that their was no difference if they said they were hormone free!!! $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Our government doesn’t do things for the people! GREED!!!Have I become bitter – you bet! Give me back the years that was stolen from my family and I because of ZOLOFT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I say it’s about time I too use it for pain. It’s way better than popping pills
Of course they voted this legislation down… Does anyone know how to find out who voted for it and who voted against it? I’d like to start a list of people that need to be gotten rid of!
[Paul Armentano responds: HR 2306 was introduced yesterday. It has not been voted on. Please take time to contact your US House members and encourage them to support the measure here:
http://www.capwiz.com/norml2/issues%5D/alert/?alertid=50800581
I have a serious medical condition called, epilepsy. I don’t know if anyone’s ever heard of it, but it can be caused by stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep. There are many possible factors, but those are my most likely factors. The doctor has me taking Xanax every day. I know the withdrawals from Xanax can’t possibly be as bad as some other prescription drugs, but they are there. I’m happier, more productive, and not as stressed when I can smoke marijuana at least once every OTHER day. I don’t abuse the substance, and I’m positive it helps control my seizures.
@DON
It was just introduced not voted on.
your ignorant “list of people that need to be gotten rid of!” is foolish, just like you
Smoke pot, Be educated
the us gov is out of touch with reality or theuy would make us car makers install ignition cut off switches for cars, oh yea they practice genocide, daily. Soon pot will be 1000 oz and bread 20 a loaf and unemployment 27% % !
The paranoid schizophrenic nannies will strike back against this ‘Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2011’ with their frantic “reefer madness”.
America does not need a mad nanny governing your life. End cannabis prohibition!
I to am in the same boat sorta as allen.I had a nice job that paid well,I helped out my community,I gave donations to good causes such as MDA,Then I got busted for possesion.Now I have a felony cant find a job of any kind.I would like to see this pass all tyhe way thru the white house,but Im not sure that if it made it to the WH it would get signed,even tho obama admitted to inhaling,remember he said I inhaled that was the point.
Now is the time to sign those petitions and write your state lawmakers in the senate and house of representatives.Write,call,email show your support remember they are SUPPOSED to work for us.We need to hold their feet to the fire on this one.This is the best chance we have had in my lifetime to get something done.
this will not pass at all. The repukeikins , will vote against it so cops and prison unions have money.
maybe 2012 maybe 2013 , maybe 2014, maybe 2015 ECT….
each year the US WILL GET BROKER DUE TO STUPIDITY!
The problem with the whole campaign is that you have hardcore stoners campaigning for the cause. No one is going to listen to Willie Nelson or Tommy Chong. We need straight laced people to campaign for this. Successful people who have full time jobs. Like me.
Just in time for the elections, two separate parties “introduce” legislation to end the prohibition of marijuana for adult use. Coincidence?
Sounds like these gentlemen are looking for some votes in 2012. And who wouldn’t want the support of the cannabis-smoking American citizens. (We all know there’s quite a few of us.)
My question is when will the prohibition end? An introduction does what, opens the door for possible future discussions and maybe, just maybe, a vote on the bill in 2012?
Unless we all cast our ballot and upon entering office they just happen to leave behind any possibility of ending prohibition…
IT IS HISTORIC THIS IS HAPPENING , BUT IT WILL NOT PASS!~ THE SIMILAR MEASURE FAILED IN MY STATE , CALIFORNIA. MY VIEW , UNTIL WE HAVE A GREEN PARTY ELECTED GOV., THIS COUNTRY WILL NOT GO FORWARD IN ANY WAY . VOTE GREEN!~
if one , just , one state had the balls to stand up to uncle sam over this one issue , it might , might take NEVADA! AND HEIDE! OR REED! GO ONE STATE!
if one state would go ‘rogue’ over the pot law , and not deal with washington , and tried to make the 19billion , then the law might change. period.
I have to agree that this has almost 0% chance of passing with our nanny state and the fact that keeping it illegal is a cash cow for the US government, drug companies, prisons, …(need I go on??)
It is historic but I have very little faith this will come to fruition…
***would be a dream come true if it does though!!
You can encourage your Congress-person to support the proposed legislation that has been introduced by Barney Frank and Ron Paul. Call 1-202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to your representative’s office. Tell him/her that you support HR 2036: Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2011. If you don’t know who your rep is, shame on you! But, you can find out at fearlesscampaign.com/convince-your-rep
re:robertbobbobby @#31…..don’t forget Big pharma. It started out years ago w/oil and chemical companies, but now that they’ve accepted, tho not admitted, its medical benefits. Now along w/industrial and petrochemicals, big pharma stands to lose big profits if passed. Good luck America!
re:Ben @83…those conditions you mentioned DO NOT CAUSE EPILEPSY!!!! Those might cause seizures, but only if you ARE ALREADY an epileptic. But if you take seizures, MJ can greatly reduce the severity and frequency. I’ve gone from 26 AED pills @day down to 8 AED’s @ day since I’ve smoked daily. There has also been a reduction in both severity and frequency.
Prohibition was deformed at birth and should have been aborted
We all know the right answer on this issue is to have this bill pass with flying colors, because we-the-people are not stupid.
every year 50,ooo mexicans and turists die because pot is illegal.
gary johnson is yhe man for prez , willy thinks so , so do i !~ LOL~
I have smoked it evertday for 35 years…I do not have a criminal record….I am not a violent person…..have never crashed my car or been in any accidents…I still have all of my memory skills and go to work every single day in a highly skilled job…..what’s the big problem???
people might be creative and overthrow the jackasses in gov, thats what they worry about , they want everyone controlled like robots! Our country is built on lie, kill and destroy`
the real issue would be the loss of $$$ when the price plunges, taking out the 4 billion in overinflated cost value of it being’illegal’ juan
thats just ca !!!!
200 billion national loss of illegal pot revenue keeps the us gov lying.
everything must only go up ! repukikans thinking right wing greed!~
OMG reps and dems agree on something
this would be so awesome people. i have consumed cannabis for over thirty years and, its a damn shame that i have to stop consuming to keep a decent job in fla. its been two loooong years now an im chompin at the pipe more so then when testing was first started.for those who can still work and consume….feel DAMN lucky you can do so…..i have written letters to mister scott and,our reps and, the prez from they’re reply those few who have….testing is still coming to your work….friggen count on it.it seems you are the folks who arnt helping the cause by speaking up about it for fear of retrobution in the work place or, with our government. it is fear that will keep bills of freedom like this one from passing. we must find a way to speak up for our choice of the end of the day recreations. many of us have been quite responsible about our use of cannabis. we dont consume it around our children! but, because it is a very , comfortable and peaceful buzz, i personally dont have a problem being around my children while in that frame of mind….altho, i dont think i want to consume it all the time, i dont have a problem being in that frame of mind all the time.i dont need to consume it at my workplace because,i can wait to get home to enjoy its effects. i would never consider drinking before i went to work simply because cannabis is a much better, more controled feeling.. cannabis has been very good in this rollercoaster life that is mine.many people who dont partake only seem to here that this is our personal right to do as we want in our private life and until it spills over in a negative way on someone else then, it should be no problen for it to be legal.but their needs to be heard the reasons why it is good to consume. i know for me, it brings a small amount of inner peace, allows me to constrate more effectively because of millions of thoughts blasting at me in a micro second. i find i seem to handle problems in a more reasonal manner. and, at the end of the evening, ive not been quite so hard on my own parade. i have driven many miles across this map of life of thirty four years while being in that frame of mind and, has been a benefit to my consentration for the rules and consideration for others tho, i would not drive that way another day if, i could consume it again and it be legal. i miss its utiliy of making the things done out of necessity in our daily lives done with the addition of a grin and more willingness to get it done.
more folks need to here those things so they can see the other reasons why we consume cannabis. not only that it is our personal right but, that our choice is more responsible then to drink or, pound pills for a buzz. cannabis is safer then any of that waste. their is absolutly no reason for people not to know ALL the reasons for consuming cannabis. i will address it in its proper name as well..cannabis.no slang for the wonder herb. cannabis does a mind and soul good…peace to you all..stand ..up for it….
The Bill has not made it out of committee.
my fiance was pulled over and had his truck seized for .2 grams! he goes to court gets 2 yrs of active probation, 1000 fine 121hrs of community service, and had to go thru drug evaluation. finds out he has no drug problem so the probation officer makes him do 32 a/a meetings!!! and yes this bullshit has stopped him from getting a real job. i am too a pothead but im not a criminal and i think that they should be going after the real criminals instead of the petty potheads!!!!!!!!! LEGALIZE THE SHIT ALREADY!!!!!!!!!
I hate to be a kill-joy hear, and I hope this bill passes legalizing marijuana, but the big pharm companies will never allow the federal government to let marijuana become legal. These companies spend millions in lobby money keeping marijuana illegal. They know that if marijuana were to become completely legalized, they can kiss all the sales in pain killers good buy, which would amount to billions of dollars in losses.
Just saying is all.
I used Marijuana well over a decade ago. I’ve never been a big drinker, so Marijuana was my way of relaxing after work. As I got older, got involved in a serious relationship, and had my first child, I decided the risk of arrest and jail time wasn’t worth my own happiness, having a daughter and all. I smoked marijuana for about 4 years. Sometimes every day after work. And sometimes I wasn’t able to find any available, so I’d sometimes go a couple weeks without it. I experienced no withdrawls. And I never once had a hallucinogenic experience. I experienced relaxation. Total relaxation. I’m 31 now, and I still haven’t smoked any, due to its illegal status. If legalized, I don’t even know if I’d smoke it again. I have no strong urges to do so, but I’ve done wxtensive research on the subject, and the benefits of Marijuana outweigh any negative CONCEPT that those uneducated may have. I would absolutely love to see it legalized and decriminalized. We would not only end the needless deaths during violence regarding its posession and sale, but if those serving Marijuana-related prison sentences were released, we would be able to unite families that were torn apart.
Tobacco has been PROVEN time and time again, that its use is directly related to cancer. Mouth. Throat. Lung. etc.. But it’s legal.
There aren’t many drugs that are more lethal than alcohol. We all know of someone who died from the results of its use. We all know of a musician or movestar who died from its use, yet alcohol is legal.
How many of you, whether you support the legalization of marijuana, or oppose the legalization, know of someone who has died due to effects of marijuana?
I know I don’t. I can’t even think of a single time that I just read about someone in the news dying, due to the effects of marijuana.
I fully support the legalization and decriminalization of Marijuana. Whether I use it again in the future, or not.
nice above 115~ i own kona , hawaii property ,it sits empty , it has the potential to do 500 k a year , but , it sits empty . THANK YOU US GoV!
It’s way past time to legalize marijuana. The war on drugs is a farce. All those people that have been incarcerated should be let out and their records cleaned up.
@ Mrs. Issacson. I had the same problem. I went through a government based mental health facility. The government based mental health facilities, especially here in Texas, are just horrendous. There is a book I recently read called Crazy written by Pete Earley. It explains how screwed up the mental health system in America really is today, esp for those in jail. I hope it helps. Maybe the more people who see how much harm is being done to people who really need the help, will help change it.
Hi! I’m a computer science major working on my master’s thesis. I’m sick with Fibromyalgia, and I just posted my story on my blog. See my website.
(Where are the dang technical manuals for these blog software things? Nevermind, I’ll just look at the source code.)
Legalize, tax, regulate. Put the tax money toward Rehab Centers and Education.
more lies by the us gov, they recognize marinol , but not pot , what double standards~ juan!~ can you imagine all the mexicans going home to work on the pot farms LOL
mexico should grow the us countries 20 billion dollars worth of weed to save US money LOL~
I have Fibro, heart disease, RLS, IBS, AND NOW Rhuematoid Arthritis that has sent me spiraling down into Depression/Anxiety. I would LOVE to be able to use it to TRY to regain @ least a small quality of my once independent, active life, have been bed ridden for 3 years, ALWAYS worked 2-3 jobs @ a time, but have been unable to do so for 3 years…not only am I HAVING to fight for disability, I can’t get FREE medical care, nor the meds I NEED to just live PLUS if I even THINK about using this in my own home, I can be arrested ??? Seen more of my share of family/friends die with cancer, KNOWING the government has kept this from saving their lives…it’s time WE TAKE a stand. Just as anything else, there’s a difference between NEEDING to use it & abusing it !!!!
we still have a communist country that we give all our money too, can you name it? china ! lazy americans want cheap 3rd world labor and more debt , thats the american way!
imagine if china could grow killer budz >? 5.00 an oz!
We need to take our country back and stop this goverment from telling lies. Stop the war on marihuana!!This goverment needs to stop putting the citizens of this counrty in jail for marihuana. What a bunch of asses!!!!
All I can say is “IT”S ABOUT TIME”-It is and always has been an absurd, ridiculous law that has done nothing but take away our personal rights, harming everyone’s rights, and our democracy in the process.
Its just time. Yes there are cannabis abusers, Yes there are legitimate patients and or illness that cannabis helps to better oneself. Yes there are social users or for pleasure users. Its time to clean up the stereo type. Yeah I know some people just like to smoke or however but they just use cannabis like its a fad. But don’t hide behind the medical card because there are people that are ill and just want to get better…and those of you that post on weedmaps with “counter culture” “fad cannibis users” you really give medical cannibis users a bad name . Its time to legalize and do away with the insane jail time for cannabis …which never should of been illegal. So the medical cannabis users can do away with the fad smoker stereo type. And the real cannabis users can relax and be themselves. And to those of you that want to blame and claim cannabis as your addiction. You my friend need to get in a program and get help because no substance is the root of any problem..It all boils down to three people to blame for bad behaviors and problems…look in the mirror and say …Me,Myself,And I. Ultimately its time to do away with jail time, arrest and loss of assets over a plant. By the way thanks tylenol for the damage to my liver. honestly could careless for weed its not addictive…I just wish I could take it once and never have nerve damage and nerve pain again.
128. Jaun
China invented cannabis – indica is its name.
Oh no dont legalize weed then it wont be the number one cash crop!
i can’t beleive it. there is NO WAY they are actually going to do this, it just makes too much sense. ok, think with me, follow the money… the #1 question in obamas’ first open net interview thing was ‘legalize it’ and HE TOTALLY DISSED IT. was he just making everybody wait? is this the re-election plan? he finally listened to us!! yay weed! or, is it a conservative ploy… we here in the mid-west, southeast grow some good pot, so i’ve been told. lots or GOP guys come from here. they killed our tobacco industry. i WANT to beleive these guys are actually doing the WILL OF THE PEOPLE and doing this out of common sense. but when do they EVER do that?
when this one is said and done, it would be instructive to have a list of the yay’s n nay’s- but it will be more likely that we’ll see a name of someone who killed it in proceedure, so the yay and nay part will never happen.
Are you serious? America REALLY can’t come up with a medicine better than a smoking a marijuana joint for people in pain, with cancer etc? IF AMERICA LEGALIZES THIS ITS GOING TO GO OUT OF HAND AND YOU KNOW THAT DAMN WELL. WE CAN’T EVEN CONTROL MINORS(and adults)FROM DRINKING ALCOHOL. hOW THE HELL WILL WE BE ABLE TO CONTROL THIS. I’m making my own country if this is legalized…. I only want this use for people where there is no other medicine or procedure that can help what so ever. As a last measure thing. Come on America…
[Editor’s note: You’re an idiot to support another 74 years of a totally failed government policy and you’re invited to leave the country when cannabis is legalized if you’re that intolerant of other people’s vices and/or medicines.
It must suck to be you right now watching the end of Cannabis Prohibition in American happening…
Bon voyage you Anslinger wannabee!]
if they really needed tax money yes, but the prison union won’t let it happen . It would cause the price to plunge. so , it will remain broken and illegal , the black market has power , thats why it failed in ca last year.
132 , cannabis is a planty , it is part of the plant , not mAn made! LOL
All they really need to do is get it off Schedule 1.
MAYBE BY 2020…..
POT IS OUT OF SEASON NOW , JULY , PRICES SOAR~
22.00 GRAM~ sf pot club , and its not the sticky icky yet
how can taxes be paid if its illegal under fed law? what a shyster deal , az. gets it , co ,. does too . but ca ? no , they just want to rip everyoneoff
ny pot is 888.00 an oz , wish i could ship from kona newyorkies!~
maybe my kona budz cans will make it new yorkies by 2028!!! 4,000 lb grade A fancy hawaiian!
wait , 2028 , 9,0000 lb! woops~
I had a friend who was on probation for possession of marijuana. The probation officers always drug tested him. So, he started to drink alcohol more often. One night he was killed when he struck a tree, drunk. Marijuana was his drug of choice but he was unable to use it due to the probation officer threatening jail. I miss him.
well, on fri , july 9th , the feds came out again wwith no medical value , high abuse rate , no sense . I never hear about that with whiskey. SO, IT IS TRUE , THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN IN THE NEXT 20 YEARS.i AM CONSIDERING SELLING THAT HAWAII PROPERTY.
I too am an advocate for the legalization of marijuana. I am disabled because of several medical conditions among them severe,chronic pain. I know from many years of experience that marijuana is not addictive (physically or phsycologically). Yes I have tried other drugs and they were’nt for me. So pot being “the gateway drug” doesn’t wash with me as I have no interest in all the chemicals I have to put into my body because our elected have decided that I can’t smoke or ingest it in any form because we have been electing gutless wonders for decades. I live in a state where medical marijuana is legal but I cannot have it because I live on less that 700 dollars a month and am forced to live in section_8 housing and if I could pay my rent without it I most certainly would but cannot so, I can choose a decent roof over my head or a medicine that can give me a lot of pain relief. I feel that I am being treated as a 3rd class citizen because I am disabled and must have help from the federal govt. I really think the time has come to lift the prohibition on marijuana. It is a failed policy and needs to have some reps in D.C. with the guts to end this prohibition.
the real problem here is that we as citizens can be manipulated by congress for so long and there is nothing we can do about it. Could it be possible that the way we are governed is the problem?
I hate to tell you this is the senate’s way of repealing this Bill. With this it will be their way of not having to deal with this for a while.And a way to keep the DEA involved as well as local law enforcement going without state funding. keep your eyes open. They are sneaky
Vote Ron Paul in 2012, he is one of the authors of this bill, and he will end the prohibition when he becomes president.
I dont drink or smoke tobacco. I wanted a mental health professional to talk to to help with lifes problems from anger to saddnes. I was offered to take opiate base drugs by a nurse practioner mals who didnt want to listen to me just wanted to take their drugs.
They were not intersted in talking just giving me a drug that nobody knows exactly how or why it works.
They pushed a few times for me to take them.
I didnt and stil dont want them.
I wanted to talk. It turns out they wont help me because i smoke weed. I couuld drink 2 quarts of liquor every day and get help. But cant get help because of maijuana . it is ridiculus esp because it was only made illegal to rpotect lubmber , papaer compines and chemicla compaines because hemp takes onlyy 2 years to grow the samamount ofiber that trees take 20 yearsto grow. Also paper made from hemp does not need to be bleaches thus chemical companies loose money.
I wanted someone just talk to I did not want their drugs and I do not need them because I have made great progress with changing i how I react to things.
It is ridiculs that ,mental health care is refused because of this. All the medical treaments have been given by Doctors with knowledge of me smoking a number have stated how it should not be illegal .
I wanted a professional ear ,a person who listens and helps you that is what I wanted and that was what is refused because of Me Smoking Marijuana.
Absurd.
In the grand schism of things,the fact that it is so hard to get the criminal stigma removed from cannabis,you have to consider that absolutely nothing in this country is done right. Everything is done with someones agenda in mind.If you want to cut to the chase on removing criminal prosecution of cannabis, just get on the ball and send Ron Paul a couple $$ and if he is lucky enough to get through the primary,vote for him in the general election. That will make short work of this whole mess. Amberjak
Marijuana should be legalized for recreational use as its been proven in 1974 that marijuana prolongs life by 36% and helps you fend off against things such as tumors and cancer and other diseases out there and the smoke is only said to be 3% bad for your lungs and within time your lungs will heal so please tell me whats so bad about this miracle grown plant that god ahs sent us even since the apostles were around and how its cheap grown everywhere and can replace medicines and help people and save them money and relax and live a less stressful life so come on goverment why is there a prohibition on this? besides how the pharmacutical industry is afraid of it since its so cheap and people wont buy medicine as much and the timber industry will lose profit big deal americans deserve the right to live there life and how they please as america is the land of the free and yet that logo doesnt even seem to be heard anymore, its been forgotten.