Many wondered just what the exact effects of passing a marijuana legalization law would be. Some speculated no good would come of passing a state law while it is still in conflict with federal law. Now that we are a few weeks out from passing the two very first marijuana legalization measures in this country, we are beginning to have answers to these questions.
In addition to the legalization of personal possession (and cultivation of 6 plants in Colorado) that is set to go into effect on December 6th in Washington and no later than the first week of January in Colorado, we are beginning to see more positive benefits from the success of these two initiatives. Last week, two of the largest counties in Washington State, King and Pierce Counties, dismissed all pending marijuana possession cases. Clark County dismissed its cases in the days that followed. This week, Boulder County in Colorado dismissed all their pending cases and Spokane is preparing to dismiss many of theirs. It is likely that this trend will continue as we move forward and further counties in both states will also dismiss any of their pending marijuana possession cases.
So, what is the immediate result of the legalization votes on November 6th? Hundreds people will now avoid being tagged with permanent criminal records, will no longer have to appear in court and lose money and time defending themselves for a minor marijuana charge, will no longer have trouble finding employment because of a possession conviction on their record, and will no longer have to spend the mandatory 24 hours in jail that was mandated by Washington State law prior to the passage of I-502. These citizens are simply the first to benefit, there will now be tens of thousands of Americans in Colorado and Washington who won’t have to feel like criminals, pay fines, or serve jail time for the non-violent act of recreationally consuming cannabis.
And, by the way, the rest of the country is taking notice. If you haven’t heard, Rhode Island and Maine will be introducing legalization measures into their state legislatures today.
UPDATE: 11/16/2012
Just in from Denver 9news, more counties are stopping enforcement of marijuana possession in light of Amendment 64 and are considering dropping pending cases.
9News: Denver, other cities to limit pot prosecutions
In Denver, Denver District Attorney Mitch Morrissey’s office confirmed they don’t anticipate any new charges will be filed for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana for anyone 21 and older, effective immediately. This is provided it is the only offense that would warrant a citation.
Additionally, the approximately 70 pending marijuana possession of less than on ounce cases in Denver will be individually reviewed to determine if charges will be dropped.
According to Denver District Attorney Office spokeswoman Lynn Kimbrough, if the possession charge is combined with other charges, the case will most likely not be dismissed.
In Grand Junction, police have already been told to stop issuing ounce-or-less marijuana tickets, according to police documents obtained by the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
Routt County District Attorney Brett Barkey says he plans to meet with senior staff members Thursday to decide whether to proceed with prosecuting petty marijuana cases that are pending in the courts.
Wish they would legalize in pennsylvania already. But I think its great to see it starting to legalize in some states. I think itl mello out a lot of stressed and bugged out people 🙂
Are they freeing people have already been jailed?
[Paul Armentano responds: The law is not retroactive.]
I so jellious of the freedom people have in Washington and Colorado. If I smoked a joint I could go to jail and loose my job. I would be runied for life. I would love to sell my house and move to Colorado, and leave this backwards ass place I live here in Kentucky!
I’m sitting here hoping for Florida to add it’s name to the list. Where are we on that?
The Government has told you and I, that Marijuana is a “Schedule one” controlled substance. Schedule I, meaning little to no use, strong potential for abuse/addiction, and danger to persons using it.
The government actually holds patents for the medical use of the plant.
Please peruse US Patent 6630507 titled “Cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants” which is assigned to The United States of America, as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Source info is: http://www.patentstorm.us/search.html?q=6630507&s.x=12&s.y=16
I must ask; what is going on??? The U.S. war on Marijuana has cost $1 trillion and hundreds of thousands of lives – and for what?
Thank you.
Harry Houston
To anyone who uses Marijuana or hemp in any way: Would you vote for someone that will use your tax money to put you in jail for doing so?
in my life time ,never thought i would see it.
Congratulations Rhode Island and Main! Now could someone please tell me the status on marijuana reform in South Carolina? I don’t think there even considering it for medical use. There hasn’t been an update to the news section on this site about South Carolina since 15 Apr 2004. Maybe someone from the NORML chapter in Columbia, SC could give us an update. Fingers crossed.
BTW thanks for all your hard work NORML.
All PEOPLE imprisoned for cannabis use/possession Should be set free and be given a full pardon
This is all good. It’s a step in the right direction to legalize marijuana because of the many positive benefits.
Well said kyle, pa’s laws are absolute shit. Im on probation and i can still smoke three weeks then clean up in case they try to test me. Its all about money. We don’t even have medical here, and what 78-88 percent are for it? we should stop the arrests here, but i would be very happy if our neighbors led the way. God knows pa politicians arent going to.
I have a questionn I am trying to get answered, I am a legal WA Patient, now it is also recreationally legalized….thing is is that I got a DUI for alcohol and was required to do treatment. County judgement says do not use or consume alcohol or “illegal” substances…Is it still illegal (Marijuana?) Their policies they say do not recognize patients allowed to smoke, and now that its legalized, where is this leaving patients!?? I am stuck now without being able to use my medication and have noticed its effects whether I have it or not. They dont know that I orally use the oils to give low doses to help me sleep and help my stomach. Either way would I be in violation of a probation or treatment when its legal now??
I bet if the federal government looked at all the individuals that have committed a marijuana ‘crime’, they’d find that they aren’t terrorists of elephantine proportions, they’re just your average jo-schmo who feels like relaxing at the beginning/middle/end of the day. Since I am History major currently in school, I can assure ANYONE wondering what the fate will be of marijuana legalization, that a trickle ALWAYS becomes a flood. Just look at any revolution or social movement around the world, the most the obvious (and most notable) example is the American Revolution: a few men decided to be free and after not too long a period of time, a nation was born with hundreds of thousands of people supporting it.
Here comes the Green Revolution where the PEOPLE now want to be free.
Isn’t it true that the president could order the USAG to DEschedule cannabis and give a blanket presidential pardon to all cannabis only prisoners? All of which could be done in an afternoon?
I understand this doesn’t make it legit immediately, but this would force the rest of the laws to unravel, would it not? Without schedule I status jut how hard is it to get out of our treaty obligations (albeit that most are self imposed) for example? Does congress have to get involved to finish the job? Don’t we have momentum on our side that should prevent them from just legislatively reinstating the prohibition status?
So how much time and money has this freed up already? I hope other states like Pa. pay attention and see how they can free up their resources too.
Good news indeed. Where are all the outraged drug warriors with threats of doom and gloom and the fall of western civilization?
Tagging someone with a criminal record virtually dooms them to a life of unemployment or under employment. They are much more likely to wind on on the public dole or in need of help. Conservatives take note.
It’s so great to see one of the provisions of this new law already kick in! It almost feels like a dream–like something I’m reading in a fiction.
VOTING for policies works while voting for presidents is a joke. What does that say about the United States? We don’t need a president, we don’t need a congress. WE should be able to just fricking vote this crap ourselves from day 1. SERIOUSLY THINK ABOUT IT.
I think the blurb about the other two states getting ready to introduce legislation in their states should be on the front page as it’s own story! This is VERY exciting.
@Galileo Galilei: You’re so right with your statement about tagging someone with a criminal record. I don’t have exact numbers and I don’t think anyone does but the number of lives that have been ruined because of being busted for marijuana is probably in the millions. These are people that were, or were on their way, to leading good productive lives. People who were working in good jobs or on their education in preparation to get those good jobs. But, they got caught somehow, and all of that was taken away from them. Some probably ended up being career criminals because of the assocation with criminals while incarcerated, or because of the lousy choices remaining for them to get on with their lives.
Truly, the marijuana laws have done society so much more harm than good it is unbelievable that any intelligent person could possibly condone them.
I wish to God that Obama would speak to America about this subject and the sooner the better! I believe he knows the truth. He is a very intelligent man. I want the truth and I can handle it – We all can! I suspect that part of the reason he has not spoke out is pressure from his vice-president and his family. It’s hard to imagine Michelle being on board with legalization; but I could be wrong. I sometimes wonder if his daughters have to put up with any taunting because of their father’s actions on this issue thus far in spite of his earlier usage.
i got to ask Rob Kampia in one of them conference calls today .Said what are the chance of medical marijuana in Texas.Dude didn’t even hesitate a second,just said a flat out NO lol my like sucks
Like to add to all the people in the bible belt states,we are screwed ;/
Why, why why why why couldn’t Oregon have legalized it too? Congratulations to Colorado and Washington. I’m sure states will follow in your footsteps, hopefully mine does next time.
Are they freeing people have already been jailed?
[Paul Armentano responds: The law is not retroactive.]
Well, that sucks!
So now the state police have less income from charging CRIMINALS with LEGITIMATE OFFENSES. So now they’re going to have to hire more police and more crimes will be committed.
I hope my daughter doesn’t get raped because of you stoners
We shouldn’t bring all people with marijuana charges out of prison. Putting them in prison was wrong, sure, but do we really want them back on they streets? They learn a lot of shit in the pen that would not be deemed acceptable.
Plus, MOST people who go to prison for marijuana crimes are not for possession/use, it’s usually the dealers, gangs and the other idiots who do stupid shit to put that in that situation.
Here is an update for those of us that feel left out: Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) announced awhile back they would fund the petitioning of 28 states for the legalization of medical marijuana to be on the ballot in 2014. Florida is not one of the 28 states, but Florida has it’s own medical marijuana petition initiative at puffm.org. With the 18 already legal, MPP 28 state initiative and Florida that makes a total of 47 states out of 50. Sooner or later the feds are going to give in to the wishes of the people and changes prohibition laws. Florida voters may download a copy of the petition on the website.
[Paul Armentano responds: Only half of all states allow for citizen initiatives and this was the mechanism used in the passage of nearly a dozen or so of the existing medical marijuana states. Most future marijuana law reform laws, particularly medical reforms, will need to be enacted legislatively, not via initiatives.]
Georgia may go for it when they suceed from the union. Maybe Atlanta will tax sales of pot to finance a new stadium.
It’s amazing how seemingly overnight the news headlines switched to much more positive things. I’m also certain there won’t always be good news about pot, but I’m going to gloat about this moment. 🙂
This is good, but people can still loose their jobs when businesses follow the federal drug free work place act. Unlike heroin, marijuana sticks in the system a long time. Hard drug users can easily pass a drug test with 24-48 hour notice. Marijuana users can not.
Hope someone tied a rope to Keith”s ankle.
Is this going to be OUR “free at last” moment in history ?
Hey John can it why don’t you.
Free at last! At least some of our brothers and sisters. This should start a trend that will free everyone — to discover and use this remarkable plant.
Legalize in south carolina
This petition is for hemp! There is already a few for weed but none for hemp. Help me push this forward!
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/enable-farmers-america-grow-hemp-tell-mrobama-you-can-not-get-high-hemp/Ryh7x4x3
For our country we need to legalize marijuana and tax it this would solve SOME of our national debt, and as for those already in prison change their charge to tax evasion. It would solve the issue with “grandfathered” criminals and they should be punished, because at the time they knew it was illegal and they still knowingly committed the crime.
I am not for or against the recreational use of marijuana, but the facts remain that it is a natural plant that has medicinal properties and a way to relax after a hectic day.
My next point is that it would be treated almost the same as alcohol. DUI’s should be enforced because of the effects on their driving abilities. No smoking of it at a work place, or near schools. Set an age limit of sale through stores, 21 would be an appropriate age. Sale to a minor should be a crime, same as alcohol. A limit of how much you have on your person, if your carrying too much your trying to sell and evade tax. Establish the strains of marijuana that are legal, so it can be monitored. Have a limit on the amount of “growing plants” a person can own for personal use (for states that allow personal growing). A liscence should be a required to grow and screenings for growers no criminal background for intent to sell, those plants should be for personal use only.
My final point is that it should be legalized but restricted. Laws set in place to protect the people and to keep people doing honest business by buying from a store not from Tom, Dick, or Harry down the street and help get this county back on track.
I am 100% in support of lgealization but I keep seeing the same thing repeated in every article I read concerning this subject. They are dismissing POSSESSION cases. What about the cases concerning distribution? If they still prosecute sellers (until a regulated system is in place) then we are still in an bad place. I just can not find anything concerning this. If they are dropping ALL pending cannabis related cases then that is good in my book. If not … sigh … speed bump ahead, proceed with caution.
[Paul Armentano responds: The initial provisions of these new laws involved the legalization of personal possession (up to one ounce in WA, up to one ounce and/or six plants in CO). Therefore, the pending criminal charges that are being dismissed involve possession cases only.]
Well let’s see.
1. The two highest electorial swing states are Florida 29 and Ohio 18
2. It’s almost impossible to lose both states and be elected President.
3. In 2012 both states were decided by a margin under 100,000 Obama
4. In the last 6 elections the lowest deciding margin was 500 votes (2000, Bush) the highest was 500,000
5. So it seems to me 500000 people in Florida and 500000 people in Ohio can force, not ask, not persuade, not beg, FORCE both political parties to do whatever they damn well please.
6. Even Arkansas scrapped up 500000 pro pot votes. Unfortunatly 530000 voted the other way.
7. Instead of slogging it out state by state, city by city, up the continuim (lowest arrest priority, Decrim, Medical all the way to grand slam legalization WA, Co style, all the while trading away basic citzenship rights. Again I see a day not far in the future where you CAN’T GET ARRESTED for Marijuana. You also can’t drive a car, get a student loan, recieve an organ transplant, seek health care, buy a gun,etc….
Instead of all those years and all those states and all those concessions, be an electorial bully in FL and Ohio and in 2016 make both the Democrats and the Republicans suck it. Remember Giant Snakes are showing up all over back yards in Florida.. Obama wanted to ban the importation of Giant Snakes but backed down because 16 ft child eating snakes have more political muscle than pot smokers.
This is a huge step in the right direction and this spells the beginning of the end of marijuana prohibition. This is looking to be similar to the alcohol prohibition, states started rejecting the federal laws and making it legal in their own state and eventually the federal government gave up. If more and more states pass legalization, their state and local police forces will do nothing and the federal government would be forced to do it all on their own, over time if enough states legalize it, its inevitable the federal government will give up.
What will NORML do next? Pretty soon the legalisation role will change to a consumer advocacy role – maybe.
With the lack of “don’t do this because it’s illegal”, most things lose their attraction to under age users. Besides John, if you’re daughter can’t resist gonig to a risky party, then the outcomes become irrelevant because she chose to go.
I know this because I myself was an under aged drinker and that was the fun of it, because we weren’t supposed to. Now I am almost 23 and voluntarily consume alcohol 2-3 times per year,instead of 2-3 days out of the week.
Rhode Island and Maine voters need to email or contact their reps in the govt and provide MASSIVE support for these initiatives, ASAP. Maybe we can get to four states legal, quickly? NORML needs to overly support these states 100% now, I would think???? I loved the analysis the politicians are giving, the 10 million in taxes obtainable versus the 20 million spent to enforce prohibition, one Rhode Island rep stated, I believe?
[Paul Armentano reponds: These bills are pre-filed for the 2013 legislative session. Sign up for NORML’s e-mail alerts to learn when hearings or votes are pending or check NORML’s ‘Take Action’ page http://capwiz.com/norml2/issues/ for state legislative updates.]
I dont figure how u could possibly think this would increase crime Whenever U eliminate a criminal black market common sense tells u that this could only work to alleviate crime & free up police resources it’s that sort of shallow minded ignorance that we have put up with for over 40 years Cannanis is NOTHING like crack,heroin, or methamphetymine Come on now R U seriously that brain-washed & stupid 4 real????
Does anyone know if they are going to have a public hearing for legalization in Maine? They did the last time. If so, when?. I WILL go and speak in favor of it.
“So now the state police have less income from charging CRIMINALS with LEGITIMATE OFFENSES. So now they’re going to have to hire more police and more crimes will be committed.
I hope my daughter doesn’t get raped because of you stoners.”
This makes no sense whatsoever. Probably a put on????
Key John..
Your kid will get raped due to LEGAL ALCOHOL before MJ. Maybe if she DOES get raped (God forbid), you’ll be glad there was actually a cop there for her instead of them chasing someone down for having a little fun and hurting no one else. Also, get over it. The easy street pot hey-day cops have enjoyed for way too long IS OVER.
As far as this John is concerned..
COP!!!!
Well it looks like me and my familly are moving to colorado in a few years f*** you texas I’m out of this bi*** and to the people that think texas is a bible belt state come down to el paso or all the way to weslaco and u will see its the cartels who run this state
To galileo what the hell is ur damage you really think your daughter is goin to get raped because of us stoners no its because dumb-ass parents like you don’t know how to watch your kids.
Man I hate people that blame shit on cannabis you. Know what all you that hate can SICK A DUCK
“So now the state police have less income from charging CRIMINALS with LEGITIMATE OFFENSES. So now they’re going to have to hire more police and more crimes will be committed.
I hope my daughter doesn’t get raped because of you stoners”
John, you do realize that you DON’T need excessive policing to achieve the same result right?
Beyond that justice shouldn’t be administered at the expense of another group. What you did was just a redherring, it has no actual basis on this issue and reduction in marijuana cost has no impact on actual policing, only on drug busts.
Mind you that it also reduces criminal activity/participation by reducing a source of income. (albeit its not all of it but nonetheless any drop in their income is a good sign) So in fact, it would achieve the OPPOSITE of what you’re implying.
Why is the people’s express will documented beyond the legal threshold, therefore about to become LAW, yet still ignored by certain groups of our nation?
http://www.gazette.com/articles/cases-147418-marijuana-peak.html
After the election a poll was taken in Charleston,South Carolina. The majority voted in favor of Legalizing Marijuana. A SC state Repub. said it will not be approved in SC. And they wonder why they lost.
I wonder how this makes people sitting in jail on these same “offences” feel? No one should ever have to rot in a cell because of a plant. Law favors the rich. Commit a crime? No problem, just pay this fine. It was never about justice.
The country as a whole is behind on ending cannabis prohibition. We need this in every state. I’m glad ever so much that the voices were heard in Washington and Colorado….As for click n hit….What’s with this turd? The statement this POS left is so off tilt….I’m more worried aboutthis guy’s reasoning more than anything. I’m sure his family is proud of him being a total idiot though.
My apologies to C-N-H….I am referring to the turd who obviously…and rightfully so had his post deleted…
PULEEZE! When have you ever heard of “stoners” raping anyone!?!? Educate yourself so you don’t appear so ignorant! Marijuana does not react like alcohol, changing peoples personalities and lowering inhibitions. People under the influence of marijuana are peaceful and calm….where do people get these crazy ideas? It is embarrassing!
To Co I go. Come on income tax return 🙂
Well this is certainly encouraging. I’m so happy to see these states get the ball rolling and not even worrying about what the FEDs are going to do. The people have spoken… it’s time the government listened.
Guess I may just have to move to Colorado now. Rocky Mountain High just got higher… woot!
Good job on winning a major battle in the war. Try to get a “national ballot” so I can vote in PA for good plant legality.
[Paul Armentano responds: there is no such thing as a ‘national ballot’ beyond federal elections for members of Congress and the US President. Pennsylvania is not one of the 25 states that allows for citizen ballot measures. Therefore, any change in marijuana law in this state, as well as in many others, must come legislatively and requires working with and gaining consensus among elected officials.]
I guess when u live a mile you can see better LOL I love colorado
a song for the movement.
“My bags are packed”, good bye Texas
A yea its called Democracy for a reason.
The Majority steers the boat
If the laws arent just we change them.
The popular vote needs to be used for
More issues.
now what about anyone in jail for minor possession, do they get out and record cleared too?
Yes this is definitely the progress that I’m sure we have all been awaiting for such a long time. However we must not let this great news cloud us from continuing the movement! Yes it would be awesome to get to live in one of these brave states that are at the crest of the wave of our effort, but we must not give up on the states that still need our help. We must not let this victory blind us from continuing forward towards the progress that we all know is inevitable. We must keep the fight going at our homes, the states that are not so lucky to have passed or even initiated any legalization bills. It starts with us brothers and sisters. We can make sure that this great country that we love learns to be NORML. It is just a matter of time and effort. We have time on our side, the effort is now due. We are the difference needed to succeed and end this wasteful prohibition that has been plaguing us for decades. Do not give up on your home states! We must continue to push forward and victory will be ours! We are so close, I smell it in the air!
This is life-changing; I’ll be there in May. We should get Pink Floyd and that little band from Texas to come do a show for us to celebrate. Oh yes got to have Willie Nelson of course. Reminds me of the old days – got to get back to that garden. Be bold; this is big; let’s pull another Woodstock out of this!
People won’t even have to move to Colorado (or Washington) if they simply wait as all the states will follow in the same path.
After this happens, be across-the-board pardons will be appropriate. This last election is helping people finally notice that they never bothered to question the lies told about cannabis through propaganda, all fallacious appeals to fear, fried egg brains and the like.
Let the punishment fit the crime. Cannabis use is not a crime at all, any more than drinking a beer or smoking tobacco.
Just admit cannabis prohibition was an intractable mistake, someone.
@rico
You’re confusing my comments with those of John, because I quoted his comment in my post. His posting is utterly irrational and makes no sense that I can gather–looks like reefer madness with an emphasis on the ‘madness’.
I just hope everyone sticks together so we can make it legal every where.
I just hope everyone sticks together so we can make it legal every where.ga.for xsome reason they put green with class one narcotics and they know there is no way there the same they just cant make as much money off patients who use just one medicine instead of 5 or 6 right
Please legalize. My life depends on it
Wow, I bet John is a alcoholic. Your beliefs are raping your own doughter, poor girl; what a unlucky roll of the dice to have a idiot father like you.
Stop blaming marijuana. It has nothing to do with your daughter maybe she needs better parents who understand that smoke is peaceful and kind.
@rico
You’re confusing my comment with that of John, whose words I quoted. His comment makes no sense at all to me, reminiscent of reefer madness with the emphasis on the ‘madness’.
Way to go for Colorado and Washington on starting what the rest of us hope to achieve in the next 5 years
I am really,really ,really happy to see marijuana cases dismissed.Its a very good start and a step in the right direction. I sincerely hope it will last.All the volunteers have done a tremendous job of helping to rehabilitate a plant that has co-evolved with man for thousands of year.MAY THE THIRD MILLENIUM BE ALWAYS KIND TO CANNABIS.This plant deserves it.
What about workplace drug testing? I’m wondering if there will be a wave of firings after these laws take effect! As long as they can hold jobs over our heads we aren’t free to blaze even on our own free time!
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/09/06/marijuana-fights-cancer-and-helps-manage-side-effects-researchers-find.html
“Mounting evidence shows ‘cannabinoids’ in marijuana slow cancer growth, inhibit formation of new blood cells that feed a tumor, and help manage pain, fatigue, nausea, and other side effects.
Cristina Sanchez, a young biologist at Complutense University in Madrid, was studying cell metabolism when she noticed something peculiar. She had been screening brain cancer cells because they grow faster than normal cell lines and thus are useful for research purposes. But the cancer cells died each time they were exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive ingredient of marijuana.
Instead of gaining insight into how cells function, Sanchez had stumbled upon the anti-cancer properties of THC. In 1998, she reported in a European biochemistry journal that THC “induces apoptosis [cell death] in C6 glioma cells,” an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Subsequent peer-reviewed studies in several countries would show that THC and other marijuana-derived compounds, known as “cannabinoids,” are effective not only for cancer-symptom management (nausea, pain, loss of appetite, fatigue), they also confer a direct antitumoral effect.* http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aLRKiCeoXoRQ
A team of Spanish scientists led by Manuel Guzman conducted the first clinical trial assessing the antitumoral action of THC on human beings. Guzman administered pure THC via a catheter into the tumors of nine hospitalized patients with glioblastoma, who had failed to respond to standard brain-cancer therapies. The results were published in 2006 in the British Journal of Pharmacology: THC treatment was associated with significantly reduced tumor cell proliferation in every test subject.
Around the same time, Harvard University scientists reported that THC slows tumor growth in common lung cancer and “significantly reduces the ability of the cancer to spread.” What’s more, like a heat-seeking missile, THC selectively targets and destroys tumor cells while leaving healthy cells unscathed. Conventional chemotherapy drugs, by contrast, are highly toxic; they indiscriminately damage the brain and body. ”
—
We’ve all seen these new blips. The evidence may be “mounting” but myriad studies have pointed to these medical hypotheses regarding cannabis’ properties of inhibiting or preventing tumors (cancer) and boosting immune function for some time, because certain cannabinoids mimick or mirror, other natural immune defense molecules, or endocannabinoids, like anandamide. One example to support this is that there is no link between smoking cannabis and lung cancer, emphysema, COPD as with tobacco-related chronic illness.
Cancer cells appear almost daily in people. It is the job of the immune system to identify and kill these abnormal cells quickly, and so most of these occurrences don’t reach the level of tumor development or of malignant conversion and metastasis (rapid spread of cancer by hijacking the vascular system, spreading malignant cells to other body areas). And cannabis, the plant fiber used by Betsy Ross to make the first flag, seemingly has the potential to treat or inhibit cancer, the plague of the 20th and 21st centuries. And this is not the same as using pot as a palliative medicine (therapeutic, not a curative) to treat the effects of “conventional” cancer treatments like chemo/radiation, such as nausea, depression, lack of appetite, pain, and so on.
Imagine that your income and livelihood depends on finding treatments or a cure for cancer. Would you really want the bottom-less well of funding resources to dry out by actually finding a cure and ending your own job? And even if it is unfair to characterize cancer researchers in such a way, there is undeniably enormous amounts of money made around the cancer research-treatment industry.
Studies of anti-tumor properties originally began appearing during the era of Nixon. They were mentioned by the Shafer commission, of which Nixon chose 8 of the 15 members, and whose ultimate conclusion after thoroughly researching cannabis at Nixon’s request, was that it should *not be illegal*, there should be *no criminal penalties* are warranted for its use. Nixon however did not want people (young men) smoking pot because it generally made them pacifists, helping them realize that they did not want to kill other people, such as unarmed rice farmers. This was bad for the draft, bad for the continuing genocide in Vietnam, and bad for Nixon, controlled/manipulated by the weapons makers, much as the oval office still is, today.
In addition, Oval Office recordings later released demonstrate that Nixon had been scheming to create the HMO system and managed health care (basically the reason why healthcare is currently exorbitantly expensive, inaccessible, and poorly ranked compared to other countries despite abundant resources. Hospitals and insurance are in business together and their revenues depend on people getting sick (to be blunt). Cancer is a most lucrative sickness for the broken health care system.
It’s tragic that cannabis has been labeled with the arbitrary and unscientific scheduling system, as if it is “not medicine” as dishonest people claim out of self-interest or ignorance. But worse still, is that cannabis is not only “a” medicine, but could turn out to be “the” medicine for millions and millions of people. While billions, trillions?, of dollars were spent on cancer research, the legal status of cannabis prevented even basic research into what is turning out to be the best hope for cancer prevention or understanding how to stop metastatic cancers from spreading. Does that sound far-fetched? Compare the reports of anti-tumor properties from unjustly maligned cannabis, with the very little progress cancer researchers have made, over decades and decades. Imagine what other findings will be made as scientists can more freely study this important plant, finally bolstered by federal funding, and without interference from armed enforcement, which performs a service for special interests, the antithesis of serving the public.
article: “according to a report in Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, that cannabinoids “represent a new class of anticancer drugs that retard cancer growth, inhibit angiogenesis [the formation of new blood cells that feed a tumor] and the metastatic spreading of cancer cells.”
Pharma has known this and with their Marinol (TM) and Sativex (TM), synthetic (laboratory mixed) cannabinoids, trying to invent new chemicals that do what the natural plant already does…naturally.
Prohibitionists have been suppressing what could be an entirely new class of natural medicines to fight cancer, when these compounds can be isolated and methods of administration are developed. Sanctions like imprisonment might be appropriate considering the deliberate harm created by their ignorance, lies and corruption, while pretending to fight “the good fight.” lol.
Half the prohibitionists are drug dealers anyway
To those who havent heard… idk if its on here, but it seems as if Uruguay is moving forward with a vote on legalization sometime soon… idk maybe theres going to be a shift in the supply/demand ratio down there. If Mexico doesn’t do it( God knows the blue seals won’t let that happen) Then there might be a shift in the market to allow the cartels to outpace CO and WA… Dirt cheap mexican weed or semi cheap semi legal weed anyone? Yipie kayeh!
dont get me wrong it is fantastic this has happened. congrates to both states, but watch this unfold. the fed wont let this happen, they will find a way to get around this. i can bet you the fed is pissed and just itching to get at people who are using such a evil plant such as marihuana. cannabis people its CANNABIS!! FREE the WEED
For the moron who mentioned his daughter being raped by stoners, i can inform you that when i was in high school a girl got gang banged consentually because she was DRUNK. Not high, all the guys were drunk too and she just gave it up thanks to ALCOHOL, the real drug. The same drug that assists people in so many vehicular manslaughter cases.
Stop being a moron. You should know who your kids are with and where they are, its 2012 the GPS era, stop being ignorant. I think the question you should ask your daughter the n ext time she is telling you she is going to a party is not, Will there be cannabis there, but HOW MUCH ALCOHOL DOES SHE PLAN ON CONSUMING!! Wake up! You think Colorado, Washinton State and cannabis patients everywhere a bunch of RAPISTS? Go return your REEFER MADNESS VHS back to Blockbuster, since its obvious you are visiting us from the past.
http://www.amazon.com/What-If-Cannabis-Cured-Cancer/dp/B003SSBSQQ/ref=pd_vtp_b_22
In alot of ways I think we are open on this issue (herb) so im thinking we may need to ref it as much as we can safety commando style. I think its the most responsible thing we could do with this envelope(legal vote) we have sitting on the table. Two things I would do….#1 not smoking during my work shift. #2 Watch out for strange movements where it seems there’s an intentional act to make cannabis consumers look stupid yet appealing……sounds strange but I’ve noticed something very awkward in media, public,etc… propaganda where the stoner image is manipulated and pioneered to be cool and funny enough to partake yet stupid and unintelligent enough to keep illegal……not sure who this tactic benefits (i have some ideas) but it really seems there when I take a personal and realistic look at what occurs out there in these areas. Thank you again norml…. Hope this helps!!! P.s. dont get me wrong I do laugh alot and laugh at the stupid stuff I do sometimes. 🙂 have a good day!
One more thing norml…,I don’t really look to have or force cannabis use on people. I have a belief that people have their own remedies and likes towards what they prefer and I absolutley do not insult their interest. I believe we all may have our own thing that we do whether its st johns wart liquid formula or ID required natural pure cannabis in a capsule form etc…. I just really hope cannabis legalization in colorado and washington helps in the struggle…in a great way for those of us who may need this herbal remedy. Thank you norml
Hope it’s a sign of the times. A positive report on Fox news.
So since we won’t have to go out on the street no more to buy herb we won’t have to go out in the street to buy other things fueled by a failed prohibition Save men & women alot of hell & misery
Cannabis, and art, I should write an article. How cannabis inspires us to reflect, ponder, and create on a whim… Makes me smiley face.
Looks Like we Find out if Obama believes in Compromising his word Along with everything else! He Agreed he would not interfere with states on this issue. Now we will see.
Thank you Chris for finally using the CORRECT word for what should have always been called Cannabis for me Marijuana has always had a taste of Hate and Race hate behind it. We need to get that word away from us and Learn to use the word Cannabis. I am so Glad for Washington and Colorado they are doing it correct and for the one who pushed the fact that he does not want his daughter raped please learn something Learn that Cannabis does not do this at all yet Alcahol does do this. I’d rather my daughter hang with Cannabis smokers that under age drinkers.
I know each individual state has the right to do what they feel is best, We should all agree on treating each circumstance of the individual. If my mom is 60 years old and lives in North Carolina, she should be able to use marijuana, as long as she passes a similar process to someone obtaining a gun permit! SO many people not being stood up for! Always make it about individual rights.
Wow……. This this great. They are letting ordinary people off the hook on Marijuana charges. Now thats not false promises. First step foward true democracy. Its finally happening, and i get to see it. The political theater is really showing a positive move. Another rock just fell out of the wall. And everybody is watching. Not just Americans. The whole world. That nice little extortion package (MJ prohibition or whatever they choose to call it) that the Feds have been peddling to poeple has come back to haunt them. I’ve always wondered what the Feds would do when this Really Big Lie comes tumbling down. There is so much BS at the foundation of this very dirty business of destroying peoples lives. Marijuana prohibition shoud have ended a long time ago.
Free the weed
Thanks NORML
Please sign the White House petition to let Marc Emery complete his sentence in Canada
http://wh.gov/XXp9
If He’s serving a sentence for Cannabis in Canada then We should All sign hid petition to serve the remainder of his time in Canada Chimes of Freedom!!!!
So the police won’t charge You for an ounce or less Will they allow You too keep Your herb or will they still be confiscating it I think it’s like a no brainer That was always one of the worst things about prohibition It’s like sure let me pay Your stupid fine At least let me keep my herb instead of incinerating it along with crack,heroin, and methamphetymine Or reselling it on the street At least could We mantain a minimal level of human dignity in a free society The land of Liberty
[Paul Armentano responds: You write, “Will they allow You too keep Your herb or will they still be confiscating it.” Answer: No, police will not be able to confiscate it because the product is now legal. This is one of the key differences between legalization and decriminalization. Under decriminalization, cannabis remains contraband and police are legally obligated to seize it. Under legalization, cannabis is no longer contraband and police do not possess the legal authority to confiscate it unless there are extenuating circumstances.]
I propose this very interesting question? Would the states of CO. and WA. have all assets seized for receiving profit, (tax revenue on cannabis) under federal law?
“Very Interesting”
[Editor’s note: The answer is already known and thankfully it is ‘no’. States like CO, NM, ME, NJ and VT already currently run afoul of the feds by allowing retail sales, issuing licenses and taking in tax revenue regarding cannabis under the guise of medical use.
What have the feds done to these states? Have they seized a red penny of these states’ new found cannabis revenue?
Nada. Nullity. Zilch.
Same will likely be the case regarding non-medical legalization as well.]
Thank you editor for answering my question, however this would not be under the guise of medical, this would be of personal non-medical use. I could be wrong?
peace john PA.
[Editor’s note: Both ‘medical’ and ‘recreational’ are illegal under federal law…seems rather unlikely that feds will raid and harass state governments for recreational industry, while turning blind eye to medical industry.]
A lot of Texans are supporting this initiative unfortunately Texas will likely be one of the more difficult states to legalize in. Has there been any positive movement toward a federal law change or would it take more than a simple majority vote to change the federal policy? It seems more likely that a federal policy change will accrue sooner than all the states.
Whats going to happen in the courts when it comes to distinguishing the difference between usage and impairment? The courts still havn’t realized there is a difference between usage and impaiment. Knowing the difference will determine when the courts can prosecute employees and/or employers for employment drug policies. There will be allot of misunderstandings and law suits for urine drug tests. The current urine tests only test for metabolites which shows usage. Not the active THC in the blood that causes impaiment. So even though legalization has begun there is still allot of work to do if people don’t want thier privacy invaded or discriminated against using marijuana on their own time.
Would you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as long as I provide credit and sources back
to your site: http://blog.norml.org/2012/11/15/voters-legalize-marijuana-states-dismiss-marijuana-cases/.
I’ll aslo make sure to give you the proper anchortext hyperlink using your website title: Voters Legalize Marijuana, States Dismiss Marijuana Cases | NORML Blog, Marijuana Law Reform. Please let me know if this is acceptable with you. Thanks!
I am currently on probation in Boulder, CO for marijuana possession of less than an ounce. I am over 21 and have been on probation for over a year and nothing has changed for me. In short, Boulder county has not dismissed all pending marijuana cases for minor possession.
Mike, if your on probation that means you have already been through the court and convicted. I think this only brings hope to those who have not been through the system yet.