Why Election Day Marks the Beginning of the End of Marijuana Prohibition
via Alternet.orgThe criminalization of cannabis is a policy that has been in place federally since 1937 and on the state level, in many instances, long before that. Yet, it is a policy that fails to withstand serious scrutiny and possesses only limited public support. Today, a majority of Americans espouse ending America’s nearly century-long, failed experiment with cannabis prohibition and replacing it with a system of limited legalization and regulation. Recent national polls by Gallup , Rasmussen, The Huffington Post , and Angus Reid show that more Americans now support legalizing the adult use of cannabis than support maintaining its prohibition. Now it is time for a state to make this sentiment a reality.
Similar to alcohol prohibition, cannabis prohibition is a federal policy that largely relies on state and local enforcement. How did federal alcohol prohibition come to an end? Simple. When a sufficient number of states – led by New York in 1923 (several other states, including Colorado, later followed) – enacted legislation repealing the state’s alcohol prohibition laws. With states no longer doing the federal government’s bidding to enforce an unpopular law, the Feds eventually had no choice but to abandon the policy altogether.
Here’s to history repeating itself.
Read the full commentary here.
Great article which reminds us of the magnitude of what is about to happen (Positive thinking). I just hope the rest of the states and the rest of the world get the message quickly and we can really put prohibition behind us. I would guess at least 4 years for national legalisation in the USA (the next presidential election).
Good Luck to you all !
Fingers and toes are crossed!
I’ve noticed that we didn’t see the Drug Czar visiting states to campaign against the initiatives this election, or else NORML just didn’t mention it here. The next few years should be interesting, indeed.
Hear Hear !!
MARIJUANA is Medicine: and always has been…
Decision point tomorrow boys and girls..can’t wait!
This could herald a new age of enlightenment, like the Renaissance, only cooler.
history will be made. 30 years from now, I will remember nov 6 2012!!!!!!!
Has anyone found out the decision in appellate court, concerning the reclassification of marijuana ? I read an article about it and haven’t learned the results.( if any, yet )
[Paul Armentano: The Court has requested additional briefs in this matter. The case remains ongoing.]
I am hoping it will be legalized in at least one of the states. I can tell you where my next vacation will be if so. I hope we can come out of the closet soon.
Please let me know how to get involved in
Legalization efforts in NYC. Many peoples livelihoods, realtionships, and general health and well being depend on herbal remedies and healing
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