“A fair administrative process should include the voices of those most directly affected by federal cannabis policy: consumers, patients, and the communities that have lived under prohibition. Excluding NORML from this hearing deprives the record of that perspective.”
“Considerable time and resources still remain prioritized toward enforcing the failed policy of federal marijuana prohibition and prosecuting those who violate outdated and ineffective federal cannabis laws.”
Throughout his tenure at the DEA and in law enforcement, Cole held a hardline approach against the use of marijuana — including claiming that its use “stunts brain growth” and is linked to an increased risk of autism.
“At a time when most Americans are demanding long overdue changes in federal cannabis policy, Acting DEA Administrator Derek Maltz epitomizes the failed policies and approaches of the past.”
“For too long, the DEA has imposed intimidatory tactics upon innocent travelers. Americans who purchase tickets to travel by plane, bus, or train should not be expected to forsake their civil liberties when they enter the terminal.”
NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said that he was disappointed but hardly surprised by the DEA’s decision to disproportionately include groups opposed to marijuana policy reform as designated participants. “The fight to end our nation’s outdated and failed cannabis prohibition laws has never been fought on a level playing field,” he said.
“We believe NORML has well earned a seat at the table, and that it is in the public interest for it to be heard.”
Nearly 40 years ago, advocates made the case to the DEA’s own judge that cannabis did not meet the definition of a Schedule I controlled substance. Their case is exponentially stronger now.