http://news.nuggetry.com Fri, 24 May 2013 15:09:35 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/colorado-senate-passes-marijuana-dui-law/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/colorado-senate-passes-marijuana-dui-law/#comments Wed, 08 May 2013 13:15:02 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4504 Now, House Bill 1325 will go to Governor John Hickenlooper who will decide if it is signed into law.  In the past, Hickenlooper has expressed support of a marijuana DUI guideline for Colorado. Under the law, drivers pulled over with more than 5 nanograms THC/milliliter of blood would be considered to be driving under the influence.  The offense would be treated like an alcohol DUI. The bill was only just introduced last week.  It is an exact copy of a bill that was shot down by the Senate earlier this year. Opponents of the bill believe that the 5 nanogram limit is far too low.  It has been argued that many marijuana users, medical marijuana patients in particular, could potentially always have that much THC in their system, due to the frequency with which they smoke.  Other opponents argue that the amount of THC in one's blood does not dictate  how impaired they are.  While there is a direct correlation between blood alcohol content and impairment, that concept does not necessarily ring true for marijuana.  Additionally, THC is stored in the user's fat, meaning that it does not leave the body as quickly as alcohol does. HB 1325 allows for people charged with driving under the influence of marijuana to challenge the charge that they were too impaired to drive.  Representative Mark Waller explained, "For example, if you did not exhibit poor driving, you can put that on as evidence to say, 'Look my driving was not poor, I'm not unsafe to operate a motor vehicle.'" HB 1325 applies to all drivers, regardless of whether or  not they are a medical marijuana patient.   [Source]]]> Now, House Bill 1325 will go to Governor John Hickenlooper who will decide if it is signed into law.  In the past, Hickenlooper has expressed support of a marijuana DUI guideline for Colorado. Under the law, drivers pulled over with more than 5 nanograms THC/milliliter of blood would be considered to be driving under the influence.  The offense would be treated like an alcohol DUI. The bill was only just introduced last week.  It is an exact copy of a bill that was shot down by the Senate earlier this year. Opponents of the bill believe that the 5 nanogram limit is far too low.  It has been argued that many marijuana users, medical marijuana patients in particular, could potentially always have that much THC in their system, due to the frequency with which they smoke.  Other opponents argue that the amount of THC in one's blood does not dictate  how impaired they are.  While there is a direct correlation between blood alcohol content and impairment, that concept does not necessarily ring true for marijuana.  Additionally, THC is stored in the user's fat, meaning that it does not leave the body as quickly as alcohol does. HB 1325 allows for people charged with driving under the influence of marijuana to challenge the charge that they were too impaired to drive.  Representative Mark Waller explained, "For example, if you did not exhibit poor driving, you can put that on as evidence to say, 'Look my driving was not poor, I'm not unsafe to operate a motor vehicle.'" HB 1325 applies to all drivers, regardless of whether or  not they are a medical marijuana patient.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/colorado-senate-passes-marijuana-dui-law/feed/ 7 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ohio-could-be-next-to-legalize-marijuana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ohio-could-be-next-to-legalize-marijuana/#comments Fri, 03 May 2013 13:34:36 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4457 A recent poll conducted by Saperstein Associates showed that 63% of Ohioans supports medical marijuana legalization.  However, full marijuana legalization was opposed by a 21 point margin. The first bill would allow patients with certain qualifying medical conditions to receive a recommendation from their physician to use medical marijuana. Of his desire to have medical marijuana legalized, Hagan stated, "In addition to the studies that show marijuana to be a valuable treatment option for chronic pain, nausea, and seizure disorders, I have heard countless stories of how cannabis has made a difference in the lives of people who are sick or dying." The second bill would legalize the use and possession of marijuana by all individuals age 21 and over.  The legislation closely resembles Colorado's Amendment 64 and Washington's I-502.  Recreational marijuana would only be able to be sold by state-licensed shops and would be subject to a 15% excise tax. Hagan argued, "With billions upon billions spent on the war on drugs with little progress to show for it, it is time for more sensible drug policy in this country." In order for either measure to make it onto the ballot, the legislature needs to approve the proposal with a three-fifths vote. Last year, two organizations had medical marijuana ballot issue language approved by the Ohio Ballot Board.  Both are currently in the process of collecting signatures to get their measures onto the November ballot, but neither is close to the 385,000 signatures needed.   [Source]]]> A recent poll conducted by Saperstein Associates showed that 63% of Ohioans supports medical marijuana legalization.  However, full marijuana legalization was opposed by a 21 point margin. The first bill would allow patients with certain qualifying medical conditions to receive a recommendation from their physician to use medical marijuana. Of his desire to have medical marijuana legalized, Hagan stated, "In addition to the studies that show marijuana to be a valuable treatment option for chronic pain, nausea, and seizure disorders, I have heard countless stories of how cannabis has made a difference in the lives of people who are sick or dying." The second bill would legalize the use and possession of marijuana by all individuals age 21 and over.  The legislation closely resembles Colorado's Amendment 64 and Washington's I-502.  Recreational marijuana would only be able to be sold by state-licensed shops and would be subject to a 15% excise tax. Hagan argued, "With billions upon billions spent on the war on drugs with little progress to show for it, it is time for more sensible drug policy in this country." In order for either measure to make it onto the ballot, the legislature needs to approve the proposal with a three-fifths vote. Last year, two organizations had medical marijuana ballot issue language approved by the Ohio Ballot Board.  Both are currently in the process of collecting signatures to get their measures onto the November ballot, but neither is close to the 385,000 signatures needed.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ohio-could-be-next-to-legalize-marijuana/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/ufc-fighter-robbie-peralta-suspended-for-marijuana-use/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/ufc-fighter-robbie-peralta-suspended-for-marijuana-use/#comments Wed, 01 May 2013 13:36:21 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4444 The fight took place at Ericsson Globe Arena in Stockholm on April 6.  Peralta lost the fight by unanimous decision against Akira Corassani.  During the fight, cage side commentator Kenny Florian commented that Peralta was stumbling around like he was "walking on a waterbed." Peralta has been suspended from the UFC and will be required to undergo drug treatment.  His suspension will last six months retroactive to the date of the event.  He will attend drug rehabilitation classes and will be required to pass a drug test before he is allowed to be reinstated into the UFC. The UFC released a statement which read, "The UFC organization has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants, or masking agents."   [Source]  ]]> The fight took place at Ericsson Globe Arena in Stockholm on April 6.  Peralta lost the fight by unanimous decision against Akira Corassani.  During the fight, cage side commentator Kenny Florian commented that Peralta was stumbling around like he was "walking on a waterbed." Peralta has been suspended from the UFC and will be required to undergo drug treatment.  His suspension will last six months retroactive to the date of the event.  He will attend drug rehabilitation classes and will be required to pass a drug test before he is allowed to be reinstated into the UFC. The UFC released a statement which read, "The UFC organization has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants, or masking agents."   [Source]  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/ufc-fighter-robbie-peralta-suspended-for-marijuana-use/feed/ 6 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/marijuana-use-can-still-get-you-fired-in-colorado/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/marijuana-use-can-still-get-you-fired-in-colorado/#comments Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:27:35 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4427 Last Thursday, a Colorado appeals court upheld a ruling that employers can fire employees who test positive for marijuana, despite the fact that both medical and recreational marijuana have been legalized in the state. The rulings stem from the case of Brandon Coats, who was fired after he tested positive for marijuana.  Coats is a legal medical marijuana user who used the MMJ to manage the symptoms from a car crash that left him paralyzed. The 2-1 court of appeals ruling was based primarily on the fact that marijuana is illegal on the federal level.  Coats' attorneys now plan to appeal to the Supreme Court. Because THC from marijuana remains in peoples' systems for a long time, workers could test positive for marijuana even if they have never gone to work under the influence.   [Source]]]> Last Thursday, a Colorado appeals court upheld a ruling that employers can fire employees who test positive for marijuana, despite the fact that both medical and recreational marijuana have been legalized in the state. The rulings stem from the case of Brandon Coats, who was fired after he tested positive for marijuana.  Coats is a legal medical marijuana user who used the MMJ to manage the symptoms from a car crash that left him paralyzed. The 2-1 court of appeals ruling was based primarily on the fact that marijuana is illegal on the federal level.  Coats' attorneys now plan to appeal to the Supreme Court. Because THC from marijuana remains in peoples' systems for a long time, workers could test positive for marijuana even if they have never gone to work under the influence.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/marijuana-use-can-still-get-you-fired-in-colorado/feed/ 1 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/lawmakers-aim-to-create-marijuana-policy-council/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/lawmakers-aim-to-create-marijuana-policy-council/#comments Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:01:39 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4367 The bill is cosponsored by Democratic Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Sam Farr, Jim Moran, and Jared Polis, and Steve Cohen.  In a statement, Cohen explained, "Regardless of your views on marijuana, it's important that we understand the impact of current federal policy and address the conflict with those state laws that allow for medicinal or personal use of marijuana." He continued, "This conflict is only going to continue to grow over the next few years, and we must provide certainty to the millions of individuals and businesses that remain caught in a web of incompatible laws.  A national commission would provide us with the information we need to create sensible policy moving forward."]]> The bill is cosponsored by Democratic Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Sam Farr, Jim Moran, and Jared Polis, and Steve Cohen.  In a statement, Cohen explained, "Regardless of your views on marijuana, it's important that we understand the impact of current federal policy and address the conflict with those state laws that allow for medicinal or personal use of marijuana." He continued, "This conflict is only going to continue to grow over the next few years, and we must provide certainty to the millions of individuals and businesses that remain caught in a web of incompatible laws.  A national commission would provide us with the information we need to create sensible policy moving forward."]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/lawmakers-aim-to-create-marijuana-policy-council/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/respect-state-marijuana-laws-act-introduced-in-congress/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/respect-state-marijuana-laws-act-introduced-in-congress/#comments Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:45:34 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4311 On Friday, California Representative Dana Rohrbacher introduced The Respect State Marijuana Laws Act, which aims to protect marijuana users and business owners from federal prosecution if they are acting in accordance with state law. In addition to Rohrbacher, the bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Justin Amash, Don Young, Earl Blumenauer and Jared Polis. The bipartisan law would protect both medical and recreational marijuana users, depending on state laws.  The proposed act comes in response to federal raids on medical marijuana dispensaries, as well as the federal government's unwillingness to reveal their stance on the newly passed marijuana legalization initiatives in Washington and Colorado. In a statement, Rohrbacher explained, "This bipartisan bill represents a common-sense approach that establishes federal government respect for all states' marijuana laws.  It does so by keeping the federal government out of the business of criminalizing marijuana activities in states that don't want it to be criminal." The bill comes at a time when public approval is at an all time high, as is voters' displeasure with federal interference in states with legal or medical marijuana.  A recent Pew Poll shows that just over 50% of American voters approve of marijuana legalization, while over 60% believe that the federal government should not interfere with the programs of states that have legalized some form of marijuana. Steve Fox, national political director for the Marijuana Policy Project responded to the proposed Act, stating, "Marijuana prohibition is on its last legs because most Americans no longer support it.  This legislation presents a perfect opportunity for members to embrace the notion that states should be able to devise systems for regulating marijuana without their citizens having to worry about breaking federal law."   [Source]]]> On Friday, California Representative Dana Rohrbacher introduced The Respect State Marijuana Laws Act, which aims to protect marijuana users and business owners from federal prosecution if they are acting in accordance with state law. In addition to Rohrbacher, the bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Justin Amash, Don Young, Earl Blumenauer and Jared Polis. The bipartisan law would protect both medical and recreational marijuana users, depending on state laws.  The proposed act comes in response to federal raids on medical marijuana dispensaries, as well as the federal government's unwillingness to reveal their stance on the newly passed marijuana legalization initiatives in Washington and Colorado. In a statement, Rohrbacher explained, "This bipartisan bill represents a common-sense approach that establishes federal government respect for all states' marijuana laws.  It does so by keeping the federal government out of the business of criminalizing marijuana activities in states that don't want it to be criminal." The bill comes at a time when public approval is at an all time high, as is voters' displeasure with federal interference in states with legal or medical marijuana.  A recent Pew Poll shows that just over 50% of American voters approve of marijuana legalization, while over 60% believe that the federal government should not interfere with the programs of states that have legalized some form of marijuana. Steve Fox, national political director for the Marijuana Policy Project responded to the proposed Act, stating, "Marijuana prohibition is on its last legs because most Americans no longer support it.  This legislation presents a perfect opportunity for members to embrace the notion that states should be able to devise systems for regulating marijuana without their citizens having to worry about breaking federal law."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/respect-state-marijuana-laws-act-introduced-in-congress/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-residents-can-be-arrested-for-answering-their-door-while-smoking-marijuana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-residents-can-be-arrested-for-answering-their-door-while-smoking-marijuana/#comments Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:37:04 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4305 The ruling was inspired by the case of Rashad Walker, who was being investigated by the Newark Police Department in 2008.  Undercover police went to Walker's home to try to buy drugs from him at his home, and when he answered the door he was smoking a joint. Police saw that as reason enough to arrest Walker.  Once they went into his apartment, they also discovered cocaine and heroin.  Walker served three years of a six year sentence before being paroled, and argued that his Fourth Amendment rights had been violated because police did not show probable cause and exigent circumstances for entering his home and arresting him. Alex Shalom, policy counsel at ACLU New Jersey argued, "Should we be entitling police officers to enter a private home simply because they saw you committing a disorderly persons offense?" Regardless of public opinion, Judge Ariel Rodriguez wrote in the decision, "Defendant appeared at the door smoking a marijuana cigarette.  Thus, a disorderly persons offense was being committed in the presence of police officers in the hallway of a public housing building, where the officers have a right to be." The decision continued, "Our holding is limited to the precise facts before us.  We do not suggest that, had no one come to the door, the mere smell of marijuana would have justified a forced entry into the defendant's home."   [Source]]]> The ruling was inspired by the case of Rashad Walker, who was being investigated by the Newark Police Department in 2008.  Undercover police went to Walker's home to try to buy drugs from him at his home, and when he answered the door he was smoking a joint. Police saw that as reason enough to arrest Walker.  Once they went into his apartment, they also discovered cocaine and heroin.  Walker served three years of a six year sentence before being paroled, and argued that his Fourth Amendment rights had been violated because police did not show probable cause and exigent circumstances for entering his home and arresting him. Alex Shalom, policy counsel at ACLU New Jersey argued, "Should we be entitling police officers to enter a private home simply because they saw you committing a disorderly persons offense?" Regardless of public opinion, Judge Ariel Rodriguez wrote in the decision, "Defendant appeared at the door smoking a marijuana cigarette.  Thus, a disorderly persons offense was being committed in the presence of police officers in the hallway of a public housing building, where the officers have a right to be." The decision continued, "Our holding is limited to the precise facts before us.  We do not suggest that, had no one come to the door, the mere smell of marijuana would have justified a forced entry into the defendant's home."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-residents-can-be-arrested-for-answering-their-door-while-smoking-marijuana/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/high-taxes-could-be-imposed-on-legal-marijuana-in-colorado-other-regulations-established/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/high-taxes-could-be-imposed-on-legal-marijuana-in-colorado-other-regulations-established/#comments Sat, 06 Apr 2013 14:46:26 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4264 If the full Legislature agrees with this recommendation, the new taxes will be put to a vote of the people in November.  Some lawmakers are concerned that such high tax rates may cause skepticism and lead to their rejection, causing the state to be responsible for covering the costs that the taxes would have helped pay for. The panel intends for the first $40 million of excise taxes collected to go toward school construction.  The sales taxes would be used for enforcing the legal marijuana system, as well as for research and educational efforts regarding marijuana use. Some lawmakers on the marijuana committee feared that Coloradans would reject one or both tax measures, leaving the state responsible for the financial aspect of enforcing pot sales. Colorado’s Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights requires the public to OK tax increases, and Coloradans have been known to reject taxes even for popular state services, such as K-12 education. Republican Representative Brian DelGrosso said many who voted to make marijuana legal did so because of the potential taxes it could raise for schools. But he worried that even tax fans could pause at taxes in excess of 30 percent. “We could potentially be setting ourselves up for failure at the ballot,” DelGrosso explained. Despite some lawmakers' resistance, the tax measure passed 8-2.  Aside from tax regulations, the legal marijuana panel tackled a number of issues during their second to last meeting on Friday. The panel determined that while marijuana is banned from being used "openly" or "publicly", private marijuana clubs would be allowed, as well as smoking marijuana openly on a private porch or back deck.  The panel's definition would not allow for marijuana to be smoked in bars or restaurants that are open to the general public. Lawmakers set potency limits for edible marijuana products at 100 milligrams of THC.  Additionally, all edibles and smokeable marijuana will have to be labeled for potency.  Packages will have to contain a universal symbol, such as a marijuana leaf, to indicate that the products contain marijuana. Marijuana shops will not be allowed to serve both medical and recreational patrons in the same location.  This is due to the fact that medical marijuana patients can be eighteen and over, while recreational marijuana is limited to people age 21 and over. The panel decided that out of state visitors will be allowed to purchase marijuana, but will be capped at an eighth of an ounce in a single transaction.  Residents of Colorado will be allowed to buy a quarter of an ounce in a single transaction.  While there are no daily limits as to how much marijuana someone can purchase, the possession limit will remain at one ounce. In Colorado, no advertising by marijuana businesses will be allowed on TV or radio.  This is similar to the regulation in place against tobacco advertising. People convicted of any drug felony will be banned from working in the marijuana business for 10 years.  The initial proposal called for a lifetime ban on felons, but some lawmakers felt that having such a strict regulation would cause marijuana to be regulated more heavily than alcohol. The marijuana committee will hold their final meeting on Monday. Their recommendations will then be turned into a bill that will be voted on my the entire Legislature.   [Source]  ]]> If the full Legislature agrees with this recommendation, the new taxes will be put to a vote of the people in November.  Some lawmakers are concerned that such high tax rates may cause skepticism and lead to their rejection, causing the state to be responsible for covering the costs that the taxes would have helped pay for. The panel intends for the first $40 million of excise taxes collected to go toward school construction.  The sales taxes would be used for enforcing the legal marijuana system, as well as for research and educational efforts regarding marijuana use. Some lawmakers on the marijuana committee feared that Coloradans would reject one or both tax measures, leaving the state responsible for the financial aspect of enforcing pot sales. Colorado’s Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights requires the public to OK tax increases, and Coloradans have been known to reject taxes even for popular state services, such as K-12 education. Republican Representative Brian DelGrosso said many who voted to make marijuana legal did so because of the potential taxes it could raise for schools. But he worried that even tax fans could pause at taxes in excess of 30 percent. “We could potentially be setting ourselves up for failure at the ballot,” DelGrosso explained. Despite some lawmakers' resistance, the tax measure passed 8-2.  Aside from tax regulations, the legal marijuana panel tackled a number of issues during their second to last meeting on Friday. The panel determined that while marijuana is banned from being used "openly" or "publicly", private marijuana clubs would be allowed, as well as smoking marijuana openly on a private porch or back deck.  The panel's definition would not allow for marijuana to be smoked in bars or restaurants that are open to the general public. Lawmakers set potency limits for edible marijuana products at 100 milligrams of THC.  Additionally, all edibles and smokeable marijuana will have to be labeled for potency.  Packages will have to contain a universal symbol, such as a marijuana leaf, to indicate that the products contain marijuana. Marijuana shops will not be allowed to serve both medical and recreational patrons in the same location.  This is due to the fact that medical marijuana patients can be eighteen and over, while recreational marijuana is limited to people age 21 and over. The panel decided that out of state visitors will be allowed to purchase marijuana, but will be capped at an eighth of an ounce in a single transaction.  Residents of Colorado will be allowed to buy a quarter of an ounce in a single transaction.  While there are no daily limits as to how much marijuana someone can purchase, the possession limit will remain at one ounce. In Colorado, no advertising by marijuana businesses will be allowed on TV or radio.  This is similar to the regulation in place against tobacco advertising. People convicted of any drug felony will be banned from working in the marijuana business for 10 years.  The initial proposal called for a lifetime ban on felons, but some lawmakers felt that having such a strict regulation would cause marijuana to be regulated more heavily than alcohol. The marijuana committee will hold their final meeting on Monday. Their recommendations will then be turned into a bill that will be voted on my the entire Legislature.   [Source]  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/high-taxes-could-be-imposed-on-legal-marijuana-in-colorado-other-regulations-established/feed/ 5 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/majority-of-americans-support-full-legalization-of-marijuana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/majority-of-americans-support-full-legalization-of-marijuana/#comments Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:34:32 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4244 52% of Americans want marijuana legalized, while 45% do not think it should be legalized.  This may seem like a small margin of support, but it is the highest level of support PRC has found after polling on this issue for over 40 years. Compared to a similar survey conducted by PRC in 2010, support for marijuana legalization has gained 11%.  In 1999, only 17% of those surveyed approved of marijuana legalization, while 78% opposed it. Of those surveyed this year, people age 18 to 32 were the group most in favor of legalization, with 65% supporting it, but 50% of baby boomers also supported legalization, erasing the image of marijuana legalization being an age-related issue. The survey also showed that almost three-quarters of Americans believe that government efforts to enforce marijuana laws cost more than they are worth. The shift in public opinion will not necessarily dictate lawmakers' efforts and actions when it comes to marijuana.  In spite of that, the recent poll results show that support for marijuana legalization is moving in the right direction.   [Source]]]> 52% of Americans want marijuana legalized, while 45% do not think it should be legalized.  This may seem like a small margin of support, but it is the highest level of support PRC has found after polling on this issue for over 40 years. Compared to a similar survey conducted by PRC in 2010, support for marijuana legalization has gained 11%.  In 1999, only 17% of those surveyed approved of marijuana legalization, while 78% opposed it. Of those surveyed this year, people age 18 to 32 were the group most in favor of legalization, with 65% supporting it, but 50% of baby boomers also supported legalization, erasing the image of marijuana legalization being an age-related issue. The survey also showed that almost three-quarters of Americans believe that government efforts to enforce marijuana laws cost more than they are worth. The shift in public opinion will not necessarily dictate lawmakers' efforts and actions when it comes to marijuana.  In spite of that, the recent poll results show that support for marijuana legalization is moving in the right direction.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/majority-of-americans-support-full-legalization-of-marijuana/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/rand-paul-speaks-out-about-marijuana-laws/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/rand-paul-speaks-out-about-marijuana-laws/#comments Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:41:23 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4151 When asked about his advocacy for changing marijuana policies, Paul explained, "I don't want to promote [marijuana use] but I also don't want to put people in jail who make a mistake.  There are a lot of young people who do this and then later on in their twenties they grow up and get married and they quite doing things like this.  I don't want to put them in jail and ruin their lives." Paul continued his explanation by putting two presidents-- Barack Obama and George W. Bush-- in the spotlight.  He stated, "Look, the last two presidents could conceivably have been put in jail for their drug use, and I really think, you know, look what would have happened, it would have ruined their lives.  They got lucky, but a lot of poor kids, particularly in the inner city, don't get lucky.  They don't have good attorneys, and they go to jail for these things and I think it's a big mistake." Paul is an advocate for states' rights when it comes to issue such as marijuana legalization.  He is a Republican, and believes that tackling issues on a local level would help Republicans be more compassionate as a whole.]]> When asked about his advocacy for changing marijuana policies, Paul explained, "I don't want to promote [marijuana use] but I also don't want to put people in jail who make a mistake.  There are a lot of young people who do this and then later on in their twenties they grow up and get married and they quite doing things like this.  I don't want to put them in jail and ruin their lives." Paul continued his explanation by putting two presidents-- Barack Obama and George W. Bush-- in the spotlight.  He stated, "Look, the last two presidents could conceivably have been put in jail for their drug use, and I really think, you know, look what would have happened, it would have ruined their lives.  They got lucky, but a lot of poor kids, particularly in the inner city, don't get lucky.  They don't have good attorneys, and they go to jail for these things and I think it's a big mistake." Paul is an advocate for states' rights when it comes to issue such as marijuana legalization.  He is a Republican, and believes that tackling issues on a local level would help Republicans be more compassionate as a whole.]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/rand-paul-speaks-out-about-marijuana-laws/feed/ 4 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-bill-clears-maryland-senate/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-bill-clears-maryland-senate/#comments Sat, 16 Mar 2013 15:26:41 +0000 Tokeahontas http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4089 The bill would still require the individual to appear in court, but no charges would be brought against them. The bill was passed on a preliminary vote.  It will now go to the House for vote. Zirkin explained the motivation for the bill by asking, "Do we want people serving time in jail or being wrapped in the criminal system for just having small amounts of marijuana?" On Thursday, the senate unanimously approved another marijuana-related bill.  It would allow immunity to caregivers of patients receiving medical marijuana-- they would be exempt from fines or jail time for marijuana possession. Maryland has had its fair share of marijuana legislation this session.  Additional bills have been presented that would legalize recreational marijuana, legalize medical marijuana dispensaries, and allow medical training centers to run medical marijuana programs.   [Source]]]> The bill would still require the individual to appear in court, but no charges would be brought against them. The bill was passed on a preliminary vote.  It will now go to the House for vote. Zirkin explained the motivation for the bill by asking, "Do we want people serving time in jail or being wrapped in the criminal system for just having small amounts of marijuana?" On Thursday, the senate unanimously approved another marijuana-related bill.  It would allow immunity to caregivers of patients receiving medical marijuana-- they would be exempt from fines or jail time for marijuana possession. Maryland has had its fair share of marijuana legislation this session.  Additional bills have been presented that would legalize recreational marijuana, legalize medical marijuana dispensaries, and allow medical training centers to run medical marijuana programs.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-bill-clears-maryland-senate/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/maine-marijuana-legalization-bill-gets-bipartisan-support/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/maine-marijuana-legalization-bill-gets-bipartisan-support/#comments Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:25:09 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3926 The bill would legalize possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana for adults age 21 and over.  The marijuana could be purchased from retail stores that would be licensed by the state's Department of Administrative and Financial Services. The bill would also allow individuals to grow up to six marijuana plants in their homes.  Additionally, the drug could be given from one person to another without compensation.  The bill would keep it illegal to smoke marijuana in public. “We have retail establishments that grow and supply [medical] marijuana to responsible consumers,” said Russell, whose first effort to legalize marijuana failed in the Legislature two years ago. “We have proven here in Maine that this can be done for medicinal purposes and it’s now time to institute that same strict regulatory infrastructure for responsible adult recreational consumers.” Russell estimates that legalizing marijuana could bring almost $13 million annually to the state.  She proposes that 75% of that money go toward the state's General Fund, which is used to fund education and social services.  The other 25% of the revenue would go toward running and implementing the marijuana program, as well as research on marijuana and substance abuse prevention programs. If passed by the Legislature, the marijuana legalization bill would result in a statewide referendum in November 2014.   [Source]]]> The bill would legalize possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana for adults age 21 and over.  The marijuana could be purchased from retail stores that would be licensed by the state's Department of Administrative and Financial Services. The bill would also allow individuals to grow up to six marijuana plants in their homes.  Additionally, the drug could be given from one person to another without compensation.  The bill would keep it illegal to smoke marijuana in public. “We have retail establishments that grow and supply [medical] marijuana to responsible consumers,” said Russell, whose first effort to legalize marijuana failed in the Legislature two years ago. “We have proven here in Maine that this can be done for medicinal purposes and it’s now time to institute that same strict regulatory infrastructure for responsible adult recreational consumers.” Russell estimates that legalizing marijuana could bring almost $13 million annually to the state.  She proposes that 75% of that money go toward the state's General Fund, which is used to fund education and social services.  The other 25% of the revenue would go toward running and implementing the marijuana program, as well as research on marijuana and substance abuse prevention programs. If passed by the Legislature, the marijuana legalization bill would result in a statewide referendum in November 2014.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/maine-marijuana-legalization-bill-gets-bipartisan-support/feed/ 7 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/idaho-senate-panel-approves-two-anti-marijuana-measures/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/idaho-senate-panel-approves-two-anti-marijuana-measures/#comments Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:52:54 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3916 Senator Chuck Winder explained, "We are making a statement that we as a legislature, at this time, do not support the legalization of marijuana because of the impact we've seen in the other states around us." One of the measures urges the government to enforce existing drug laws along borders with states that continue to relax marijuana statutes.  The other measure is a resolution affirming Idaho's position against any use of marijuana, medical or otherwise. Both resolutions are symbolic policy gestures, but they are headed to the Senate for debate. At a public hearing on the measures Wednesday, more than 150 people -- including more than a dozen teens wearing red "Don't let Idaho go to pot" t-shirts -- packed a Capitol auditorium to debate marijuana use. Some people said they have considered moving out of Idaho due to its strict marijuana laws.  Others argued for the medical benefits of marijuana.  But law enforcement and anti-drug groups made their presence known and backed the measure against marijuana, "a gateway drug." Idaho neighbors marijuana-friendly states, including Oregon and Montana.   [Source]]]> Senator Chuck Winder explained, "We are making a statement that we as a legislature, at this time, do not support the legalization of marijuana because of the impact we've seen in the other states around us." One of the measures urges the government to enforce existing drug laws along borders with states that continue to relax marijuana statutes.  The other measure is a resolution affirming Idaho's position against any use of marijuana, medical or otherwise. Both resolutions are symbolic policy gestures, but they are headed to the Senate for debate. At a public hearing on the measures Wednesday, more than 150 people -- including more than a dozen teens wearing red "Don't let Idaho go to pot" t-shirts -- packed a Capitol auditorium to debate marijuana use. Some people said they have considered moving out of Idaho due to its strict marijuana laws.  Others argued for the medical benefits of marijuana.  But law enforcement and anti-drug groups made their presence known and backed the measure against marijuana, "a gateway drug." Idaho neighbors marijuana-friendly states, including Oregon and Montana.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/idaho-senate-panel-approves-two-anti-marijuana-measures/feed/ 9 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ncaa-changes-marijuana-testing-limits/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ncaa-changes-marijuana-testing-limits/#comments Sat, 26 Jan 2013 15:32:01 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3692 Starting August 1st, the NCAA will begin using stricter regulations when testing college athletes for marijuana.  On Friday, the organization's Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports announced that the testing threshold will become less forgiving to "more accurately identify usage among student athletes." The NCAA currently tests for 15 nanograms/milliliter THC at championship and bowl games.  At the beginning of August, the NCAA will change that threshold to only 5 nanograms/milliliter THC. While the CSMAS is making the positive threshold much lower, they are also recommending that the NCAA lessen penalties for testing positive for marijuana.  The group has suggested that the penalty for a positive marijuana test be changed from a full season suspension to a half season suspension. The full season suspension put marijuana on par with all other performance enhancing drugs, but CSMAS doesn't believe that to be fair.  They would prefer to offer treatment and counseling to student athletes while allowing them to continue competing in their sport. Due to the way that NCAA's legislative cycle works, the lower THC threshold will go into place this year, but the lower punishments would not go into effect until August 2014.  This means that the organization may see a spike in year long suspensions among college athletes until the second stipulation is enacted.   [Source]]]> Starting August 1st, the NCAA will begin using stricter regulations when testing college athletes for marijuana.  On Friday, the organization's Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports announced that the testing threshold will become less forgiving to "more accurately identify usage among student athletes." The NCAA currently tests for 15 nanograms/milliliter THC at championship and bowl games.  At the beginning of August, the NCAA will change that threshold to only 5 nanograms/milliliter THC. While the CSMAS is making the positive threshold much lower, they are also recommending that the NCAA lessen penalties for testing positive for marijuana.  The group has suggested that the penalty for a positive marijuana test be changed from a full season suspension to a half season suspension. The full season suspension put marijuana on par with all other performance enhancing drugs, but CSMAS doesn't believe that to be fair.  They would prefer to offer treatment and counseling to student athletes while allowing them to continue competing in their sport. Due to the way that NCAA's legislative cycle works, the lower THC threshold will go into place this year, but the lower punishments would not go into effect until August 2014.  This means that the organization may see a spike in year long suspensions among college athletes until the second stipulation is enacted.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/ncaa-changes-marijuana-testing-limits/feed/ 8 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/proposed-marijuana-bills-headed-for-new-york/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/proposed-marijuana-bills-headed-for-new-york/#comments Fri, 18 Jan 2013 15:24:17 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3618 In his State of the State address last week, Cuomo outlined a policy to decriminalize possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana in public view.  New York has come under fire over the past year or so due to their "stop and frisk" policies; Cuomo knows this new decriminalization would help limit unfair arrests. "Decriminalize the public view with 15 grams or less so there is fairness and parity in the system and we stop stigmatizing these people, making it harder to find a job, making it harder to get into to school, making it harder to turn their lives around at a very young age,” he explained during his address. Gov. Cuomo has proposed marijuana decriminalization before, but he initially would have allowed possession of 25 grams or less of marijuana to be decriminalized.  It was passed by the Democratic majority in the Assembly, but the GOP-controlled Senate found the limit to be too high.  Cuomo hopes that by lowering the limit to 15 grams this time around, more lawmakers may be on board. In addition to Governor Cuomo's decriminalization efforts, there are also New York lawmakers pushing for medical marijuana legalization.  Senator Diane Savino is currently drafting a medical marijuana bill. Savino believes she has secured enough votes to get her medical marijuana bill to pass in the Senate. Democratic Assemblyman Richard Gottfried is also drafting medical marijuana legislation in the Assembly.  He also believes he has enough votes secured to pass his medical marijuana bill. Despite Governor Cuomo's support of marijuana decriminalization, his stance on medical marijuana remains unclear.  "The governor's been cautious in his comments," Savino explained.  "He's not there yet.  It's not an issue that he's focused on and I'm sure he has a lot of questions."   [Source]]]> In his State of the State address last week, Cuomo outlined a policy to decriminalize possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana in public view.  New York has come under fire over the past year or so due to their "stop and frisk" policies; Cuomo knows this new decriminalization would help limit unfair arrests. "Decriminalize the public view with 15 grams or less so there is fairness and parity in the system and we stop stigmatizing these people, making it harder to find a job, making it harder to get into to school, making it harder to turn their lives around at a very young age,” he explained during his address. Gov. Cuomo has proposed marijuana decriminalization before, but he initially would have allowed possession of 25 grams or less of marijuana to be decriminalized.  It was passed by the Democratic majority in the Assembly, but the GOP-controlled Senate found the limit to be too high.  Cuomo hopes that by lowering the limit to 15 grams this time around, more lawmakers may be on board. In addition to Governor Cuomo's decriminalization efforts, there are also New York lawmakers pushing for medical marijuana legalization.  Senator Diane Savino is currently drafting a medical marijuana bill. Savino believes she has secured enough votes to get her medical marijuana bill to pass in the Senate. Democratic Assemblyman Richard Gottfried is also drafting medical marijuana legislation in the Assembly.  He also believes he has enough votes secured to pass his medical marijuana bill. Despite Governor Cuomo's support of marijuana decriminalization, his stance on medical marijuana remains unclear.  "The governor's been cautious in his comments," Savino explained.  "He's not there yet.  It's not an issue that he's focused on and I'm sure he has a lot of questions."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/proposed-marijuana-bills-headed-for-new-york/feed/ 6