Posts
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1.
April 18th,
2008
3:36 pm
Marijuana will eventually be legalized simply because any reason to prohibit its use goes against scientific and medical fact. Therefore it is only illegal now due to its original reson for prohibition. Prejudice, first it was prejudice against the mexicans, then it took in all minorities now it is directed right at the poor innocent God created Cannabis Plant. I am 54 my step-sons (the Gen-X) generation and my son (the Rx generation, unfairly labeled I might add) will make sure marijuana is available legally for medical or recreational use. For a government to deny its people a safer less invasive drug for recreational or medical use is evil, cruel and insane. Put best, “Marijuana, in its natural form, is one of the most theraputically active substances known. It would be unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious for the DEA to continue to stand between those sufferer’s and the benefits of the substance.”—Francis L. Young DEA Chief Administrative Law Judge, 1988. Why did our government ignore this and tell Francis to redo it pointing out only the negative aspects of marijuana use (which he refused to do and quit) Sounds pretty political and non medical to me. It is well past the time for government to get the hell out of the way of scientific and medical research and treatments. Peace…
— Posted by Jeff
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2.
April 18th,
2008
5:40 pm
Barack Obama is clearly the superior candidate when it comes to this issue. He’s also said it should flat out be decriminalized back in a 2004 debate.
Right now, our Congressmen and women have a chance to do just that, by voting YES on both H.R. 5843, known as an “Act to Remove Federal Penalties for Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults,” and H.R. 5842, the “Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act”, introduced by both Reps. Barney Frank and Ron Paul. This is a bi-partisan effort to remove Federal penalties for possession of small amounts, and to disallow the DEA from raiding dispensaries in states where it’s legal.
I think they both have a good chance of success, and if they do, both Hillary and Barack will have a chance to put their money where their mouth is when the Senate votes on it.
— Posted by Derek Rosenzweig
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3.
April 18th,
2008
6:04 pm
To get the vote of the center-right, Senator Clinton takes the most useful position.
Her counterpart, Senator Obama, known for greater congruence between his thinking and speaking than Mrs. Clinton, claims a more rational approach.
If morphine is legal under a physician’s advise, why not marajuana?
I can offer teo reasons: the impact on the liquor industry and big pharmaceutical interests. Many persons would go from a $20 liter of Scotch to a bag of pot for under $1. And legal drugs (e.g., Valium for over $50 a bottle…).
[Yes, I admit that ‘medical’ marajuana would swiftly become availble to the general public even with its “pharmaceutucal” intentions. So what?
— Posted by David Chowes
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4.
April 18th,
2008
9:12 pm
The fact that Physicians cannot prescribe — and patients cannot use — an ancient herbal that has never killed from toxicity is indefensible illogical; irrational; inhumane; immoral; and yes, INSANE.
The pharmaceutical lobby say we must choose from their far superior, lab-tested options — the ones that kill tens of thousands of people per year.
And we say, “GULP.”
Remember ‘Deer Hunter’?
— Posted by Jemma Costa
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5.
April 18th,
2008
9:28 pm
An end to this particular Tyranny of the Majority is long past due.
Gallup.com shows that 1/3 of Americans are in favor of decriminalizing cannabis, yet every 42 seconds another arrest is made. This is truly an abuse of a substantial and intolerant Majority. Such abuse over non-violent consentual acts should face sharp criticism when compared with America’s spending on the largest prison population in the world (5% of worlds pop. / 25% of worlds incarcerated).
Freedom mandates Tolerance.
— Posted by juxtapostle
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6.
April 18th,
2008
10:55 pm
if you can allow people to decide for themselve whether or not they want to have a beer after work, then you can also let them decide if they wish to smoke a joint before bed.. thc is lipid soluble.. meaning its metabolism cannot cause the more worrisome effects of other real drugs. the war on drugs is just stupid to begin with. its a never ending ‘war’ on a vague idea that can never truly be won. but because of it’s legal status as a ‘war’ then it can be used to justify the seuspension of normal ‘peacetime’ rights and liberties under the constitution.
— Posted by pdiggles
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7.
April 18th,
2008
11:21 pm
Any nation with thriving alcohol and tobacco industries lacks moral authority to issue so much as a stern countenance toward any responsible adult use of the herb Cannabis. Deal with that.
Schedule II just won’t do. DE-schedule it.
— Posted by Richard Steeb
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8.
April 19th,
2008
12:10 am
72 percent of respondents agreed with the statement, “Adults should be allowed to legally use marijuana for medical purposes if a physician recommends it.”
POLL: AARP
DATE: November 2004
Sample Size: 1,706
80 percent of respondents supported allowing adults to “legally use marijuana for medical purposes.”
POLL: Time Magazine/CNN Poll
DATE: October 2002
Sample Size: 1,007
— Posted by Jemma Costa
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9.
April 19th,
2008
12:11 am
NEW YORK BENEFIT TO CELEBRATE RECENT MEDICAL MARIJUANA SUCCESSES
A Night of Music & Comedy to Help Push Campaign to Victory
May 14th – Highline Ballroom
Spring Soiree to Benefit Effort to Protect Seriously Ill New York Patients
Who Use Medical Marijuana
On Wednesday, May 14, 2008 the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP.org) will host a spring soiree, a night of comedy and music to benefit MPP’s efforts to protect seriously ill New Yorkers from arrest and jail if they use medical marijuana with their doctor’s recommendation. Patient advocate Joel Peacock will be honored and Sony/BMG recording artist Nicole Atkins & The Sea and other special guests will perform.
MPP is leading the fight to gain medical marijuana access for seriously ill New Yorkers who have the approval of their physicians. All funds raised will be used to pass a bill to make New York the 13th medical marijuana state in the country. An entertaining, energizing, and provocative evening is guaranteed. Your support will be part of the tipping point that brings about this momentous change!
The Host Committee for the event include: Joshua Baer, John Perry Barlow, Paul Bennett, Lewis Black, Richard Brookhiser, Tucker Carlson, Jason Flom, Savion Glover, Leslie Lansman, David C. Leven, Peter Lewis, Kurt Loder, Fred Newton, Medeski Martin and Wood, Michelle Phillips, ABC’s John Stossel, Ben Taylor, Montel Williams and Robert W. Wilson.
Last year - - for the first time ever - - the New York Assembly passed MPP’s medical marijuana bill - by a 95-52 vote, sending the bill over to the Senate. This was the result of a four-year lobbying effort that we commenced in 2003.
During that time, our lobbyist in Albany built an impressive coalition of institutional support, including the state physicians association, state nurses association, state public health association, and the city councils of Albany, Buffalo, and New York.
Before his resignation, Gov. Eliot Spitzer (D) expressed his openness to signing medical marijuana legislation, and the new Gov. Paterson seems likely to be a supporter as well, so all eyes are now focused on the Republican-controlled Senate, where Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno is supportive of allowing medical marijuana, but has not brought the issue to a vote.
With the Republicans facing a tough election this November, when they could very well lose control of the Senate, we’re hoping they’ll pay attention to the public opinion polling that indicates 76% of New York voters -and even 55% of Conservative Party voters in the state –support legal protection for medical marijuana patients.
The MPP benefit will take place at the Highline Ballroom, 431 W 16th Street between 9th and 10th Aves. (212) 414-5994. Tickets for $250 in advance- $300 at the door (most of your contribution is tax-deductible) are available at (202) 462-5747 Ext. 104 or www.mpp.org/highline
— Posted by gail parenteau
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10.
April 19th,
2008
3:28 am
“What we would do is prioritize what the DEA should be doing, and that would not be a high priority. There’s a lot of other more important work that needs to be done.”
How disingenuous. This makes me upset. Why does she have to play these dishonest games?
The DEA has made medical marijuana an extremely high priority ever since Hillary and her husband were in the White House.
Her husband was the one who spoke contemptuously of medical marijuana as “Cheech and Chong medicine.”
She knows that. She knows that darned well. She also knows that the arrest rate for marijuana TRIPLED under the Clinton administration. Marijuana was treated like public enemy number one by the Clintons.
News flash: marijuana will ALWAYS be a high priority for the DEA as long as it’s illegal. It’s bulky and smelly and far, far easier to detect than cocaine or heroin. Busting marijuana growers and dealers accounts for the majority of the DEA’s workload.
They are 1000% gung ho on busting medical marijuana providers. They want the whole movement stopped and they believe they are the only ones who can stop it.
She’s not going to change the DEA’s priorities. She knows that and she knows why.
The ONLY thing that can change the way the DEA enforces the law is a change in the law itself.
For example, rescheduling marijuana to schedule II or even III, where it rightfully belongs according to science and reason.
I can’t believe I ever supported her. All these games. Manipulative, disingenuous games that make a mockery of science and reason.
What a shame. Shame on her.
— Posted by Patricia
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11.
April 19th,
2008
6:28 am
Federal Decriminalization Bill Introduced — Bill Would End Federal Authority to Arrest Adults for Pot Possession
April 17, 2008 - Washington, DC, USA
Washington, DC: US Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA) introduced legislation in Congress today to strip the federal government of its authority to arrest responsible adult cannabis consumers. The measure, H.R. 5843, known as an “Act to Remove Federal Penalties for Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults,” is the first federal decriminalization legislation introduced in 24 years.
Federal Medical Marijuana Bill Introduced by Rep. Ron Paul
April 17, 2008 - Washington, DC, USA
Washington, DC: Representative Ron Paul (R-TX) introduced H.R. 5842, the “Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act,” earlier today. This bill would make federal authorities respect states’ current laws on medicinal cannabis and end DEA raids on facilities distributing medical marijuana legally under state law.
Representative Paul, whose presidential campaign prominently featured the ending of the drug war as a platform plank, was joined by Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) in sponsoring this bill.
— Posted by RevRayGreen
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12.
April 19th,
2008
9:16 am
Marijuana became illegal due to special interest
politics (Hearst and the timber industry wanted to eliminate competition from hemp) and prejudice against minority groups perceived as its primary users– economic opportunism, not scientific or social fairness.
A good half century of research desperately seeking to find scientific justification for classifying it with heroin and cocaine has failed miserably– it simply is not physically addictive. Coffee has physical withdrawal symptoms; marijuana does not. Marijuana does not kill people through overdose, and does not contribute to antisocial behavior. Unlike alcohol users, marijuana users don’t become violent, although they may be highly annoyed if there is a shortage of snacks. Unlike a drunk, a heavily stoned individual will not beat up his/her spouse; it’s too much hassle.
This country is not sane about its drug laws. The killer drugs alcohol and tobacco are legal while marijuana use makes individuals vulnerable to the criminal justice system. The illegal status of marijuana undermines the credibility of warnings about other, truly dangerous illegal drugs. If the government has lied about marijuana, why believe what it says about other illegal drugs? This is the true basis of the “gateway drug” argument.
Many, many casually prescribed drugs are much more dangerous and/or truly addictive, though we often don’t find out about the dangers of these drugs until long after the FDA has approved them. Research has shown that marijuana has useful medical applications, but those sufferers who need it– cancer patients and victims of chronic pain– are caught between legitimate medical need and fear of the law.
Finally, legalization of marijuana provides an opportunity for significant “sin tax” revenues. Even while illegal, it is a very significant cash crop. Using the tobacco model, it could be taxed at the level of the grower, the middle man, and the consumer. Given the national debt, the budget deficit, and the cost of supporting convicted users in prison, legalization simply makes good sense–
unless, of course, we believe like the Puritans that anyone trying to lessen their pain or having a little fun ought to be punished. A quick glance at contemporary American culture shows that we have long since abandoned that philosophy, except when marijuana is concerned.
It’s time to end the hypocrisy.
— Posted by llyn
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13.
April 19th,
2008
11:56 am
I want to send a message to Hillary and her supporters:
There is no way to change the priorities of the DEA without changing the law.
That’s what it’s going to take.
The DEA is more like a drug-busting cult than a government law enforcement agency. They’re on a mission. They love what they do. They aren’t busting dispensaries because they have to. They’re doing that because that is what they like to do. It’s part of their sense of mission. It’s very deep part of their sense of mission.
And they tend to think it’s their job to tell the President what to do, not the other way around.
No President is going to call them into the Oval Office and tell them to rearrange their priorities. That’s just not going to work.
The one and only thing that will protect patients is a change in the federal law.
Any candidate who isn’t willing to work towards a change in the federal law is making false promises to medical marijuana patients.
— Posted by Patricia
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14.
April 19th,
2008
1:18 pm
During a July 13, 2007 campaign rally held in Manchester, New Hampshire, a Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana (GSMM) volunteer told Sen. Clinton, “Twelve states allow medical marijuana but the Bush administration continues to raid patients,” to which she responded, “Yes, I know, it’s terrible.”
When the volunteer asked, “Would you stop the federal raids?” Sen. Clinton responded, “Yes, I will.”
YES. I. WILL.
Now, Hillary’s clearly side-stepping the “RAID” question with this “workings of pain spiel,” which means she will continue to use the DEA to circumvent state law to raid (possibly injure & kill); prosecute; and incarcerate people for following their doctors’ recommendations.
Horrific.
Given the American College of Physicians (ACP) recently spelled out the medical efficacy of marijuana for people dragging behind in the science department, Hillary’s flip-flopping is disturbing.
Anything short of ENDING THE RAIDS is INHUMANE & NOT ACCEPTABLE!
— Posted by Katrina
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15.
April 20th,
2008
11:38 am
Whatever happened to republicans honoring the rights of states? McCain, as a man of the military, probably never had the pleasure of such an indulgence. Such a shame. And he calls Obama an elite?
The self-involved baby-boomer generation is about to undergo some serious changes in their view of pain and what should be available to treat it. It’s cheap, wholesome, and smells delicious! Much better than a needle or a gel-capsuled lab creation. Plus, it’s a great reason to eat a brownie…
— Posted by EtonaLife
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16.
April 20th,
2008
2:45 pm
Cannabis users will always be a criminal class in this country. Get use to it. Join al-qaeda, after all, your already a criminal.
— Posted by Steve
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17.
April 20th,
2008
4:55 pm
Did Tierney have to phrase it like that? “Presidential Candidates on Marijuana”? I was expecting to see Hillary, Obama, McCain in a cypher styling.
— Posted by stateMachine
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18.
April 20th,
2008
7:38 pm
See now.
The smart candidate would be against State’s Rights to provide medical marijuana.
It goes back to simple code breaking. If you take into consideration that nothing bad is real, then you should know that no one is sick and no one needs medical marijuana. TRuST ME IT IS GOING TO PLAY OUT THIS WAY.
Furthermore, I am under the impression that people that are under 85ish in age(biological adulthood) cannot even use drugs (alcohol, marijuana, etc.).
The smart candidate would go for the ‘God status quo.’ Medical marijuana is illegal. Use of drugs of anyone under 85ish is illegal. Possession, though, is legal for anyone of all ages and if you are a biological adult then you may use drugs. This is the way The Law works.
When things work out this remember I said, “I told you so.”
— Posted by Robert Curley Jacobs
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19.
April 20th,
2008
8:52 pm
The American College of Physicians (ACP) on MEDICAL marijuana:
“A clear discord exists between the scientific community and federal legal and regulatory agencies over the medicinal value of marijuana, which impedes the expansion of research…”
“ACP strongly urges protection from criminal or civil penalties for patients who use medical marijuana as permitted under state laws.”
“Evidence not only supports the use of medical marijuana in certain conditions but also suggests numerous indications for cannabinoids.”
“The science on medical marijuana should not be obscured or hindered by the debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana for general use.”
– all excerpts from “Supporting Research into the Therapeutic Role of Marijuana” (Released by the American College of Physicians January 2008)
— Posted by Jemma C.
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20.
April 21st,
2008
9:24 am
There’s only one thing wrong w/marijuana…it’s illegal!
— Posted by 4Mary
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21.
April 21st,
2008
9:48 am
It is a waste of taxpayer money to throw responsible cannabis smokers in jail for non-violent offences. Doing this causes more harm to the person than smoking the herb itself. It is silly that marijuana still hasn’t been legalised. Alcohol, cigarette, cocaine, heroine, et cetera, all have deaths that involve their use. Ganja has not killed anyone.
Please write to your congressman on this issue (legislation has been introduced). For more information a helpful web site is
www.norml.org
You can write to your congressman from this site. We are not criminals…we pay taxes like everyone else.
— Posted by Darryl
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22.
April 21st,
2008
10:47 am
Our masters do not want us to pause and reflect on our sorry state. Consequently mood altering drugs that impair thinking are encouraged and drugs that cause reflection and introspection are prohibited.
The last thing our masters want is drugs that encourage thinking in the hands of their slaves. Let them drink themselves into a stupor - they will vote properly when drunk.
Anyhow you think a more drug-addled populace would be in their favor. Smoke some KB and the whole world looks rosier - even that really cool looking jet aircraft heading for your office building.
“Yo Maurice! Check out that awesome jet - groovy!”
— Posted by Greg Forest
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23.
April 22nd,
2008
7:31 am
I’m fascinated by post #18!
— Posted by mouse
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24.
April 22nd,
2008
2:24 pm
It is refreshing to read the postings of intelligent people agreeing on the core issue here: that prohibition of marijuana is illogical and incarceration of offenders is immoral. The hypocrisy is sickening (well put Mr. Steeb, posting #7).
And I too am fascinated by posting #18! More!
— Posted by Patio
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25.
April 22nd,
2008
8:32 pm
Just de-criminalize it and let three million American’s out of jail, hell here in Tennessee they are taking your cars/homes/Liberty over it!
As a registered Voter/Vet USAF, “I DIDN”T VOTE FOR THAT! “WHAT AN INJUSTICE/NEW REPUBLICAN POLICE STATE WE LIVE IN!
…”A time Comes….”When Silence…”IS BETRAYAL.”
–Martin L. King
…”True Patriotism Hates Injustice In ITs Own Land, “MORE,”Than Anywhere Else.” –Clarence Darrow
Sincerely, Tommy Birchfield, Voter/Vet USAF,
Master’s Program, East Tennessee State University
Spring…2008
— Posted by Tommy Birchfield
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26.
April 22nd,
2008
11:45 pm
for when you get back:
The study, which included a control group of patients who were given placebo cigarettes, found that the patients given real marijuana cigarettes experienced significant pain relief.
I KNEW IT WORKED
— Posted by latrine
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27.
April 23rd,
2008
12:45 am
Let’s see, in the past six months, how many have been killed by drugs from Merck & co and how many have been killed from smoking a J……in the same period. Last week I read that since 1995, the most accidental deaths in USA was not from guns or drunk driving (which I ademntly oppose ) but from DOCTOR perscribed drugs, mainly……methadone. Let’s compare that to cannabis. What about all the uses of hemp… food, fuel, textiles, plastic…these can all be made from hemp. Cannabis is one of the fastest growing plants and we all know plants can heal and clean our filthy air. I HAVE A DREAM, THAT HERB WILL BE FREE AND ABUNDANT…AND NEVER WILL ANY ONE TOKE ANYTHING BUT THE KIND!!!!!!!! Get off the white mans drugs and demand freedom for all of us herb toking, otherwise upright citizens.
Jahbless
— Posted by sole jah way
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28.
April 23rd,
2008
1:07 pm
This will surprise many people. Our votes for Presidetial candidates don’t count. It’s the Electoral College that elects our presidents. Many is the time that they elected a president over the popular vote. I have been a lifetime Republican because I’m against big government & for states rights. Now that the Republican party has completely abandoned it’s foundation. It’s just blowing in the wind like the Democrats. Has anyone noticed that the candidates will say anything, one thing, then a contrary thing just to appeal to everone. Wow! have they got a lot of people blinded with smoke & mirrors. Obama’s a hard drug using, radical eliteist. Clinton’s obviously all about power & money. McClain’s a hard-liner against marijuana & drugs in general. Even though he got his wife off some serious vicodan theft & abuse charges. They’re all the same. All have been co-opted by big spending special interest groups who want marijuana illegal at all cost. Amongst a whole host of interests. Follow the money trail. Oh, how I wish we could see their secret bank accounts. So, I’m giving up my life-long Republican affillitian to become a Liberal. How dare I waste my vote on Mike Gravel? Oh, I forgot, it doesn’t matter anyway. Remember the Electoral College? What a lie & farce all this country has become. I who grew up believing all the Government lies & propaganda. I still love our country & I’m still going to vote for Mike Gravel. But, I along with many American patriots, Loathe, fear & hate our current government. So, research who you really do vote for. Your state & federal officals. Then, vote for the best of them. It’s the best we can do.
— Posted by M Metner
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29.
April 23rd,
2008
1:52 pm
Obama’s comments on medical marijuana are interesting. It’s cool to compare them to all the other candidates: http://www.medicalmarijuanaprocon.org/pop/candidateview s.htm
Interesting that McCain is the only one of 8 candidates who is Con medical marijuana…
— Posted by sara
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30.
April 23rd,
2008
5:10 pm
anyone who suffers with real physical pain knows just how hard it can be sometimes to get a prescription for powerful pain medications, let alone medical marijuana, when normal meds won’t do the job.
and before the anti-drug crowd responds negatively, i was awaiting an operation to replace my damaged existing artificial hip, i was on crutches, and x-rays showed a fracture…and still it was extremely difficult to obtain any medication that actually worked to dull the pain of the fracture and loosening cement.
doctors are constantly monitored, and are fearful of what and how much they prescribe, even when the patient sitting in front of them has a genuine, legitimate need.
…unless of course you happen to be rush limbaugh.
— Posted by nutty
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31.
April 24th,
2008
1:20 pm
If you remember recent legislative history, in 1987 the conservatives in Congress were behind a push towards decriminalization of cannabis. Industry would rationally support legalization, as Philip Morris with it’s 35 year old vast seed bank will tell you.
No drug is without cost or effect on the body and mind; however, when compared with the opiates or the benzodiazepenes, both the toxicity of and the dependence on habitual or medical cannabis is well below either.
Of course, cannabis is not the pain-killer that morphine is either. It is both mild in effect, and mild in cost.
A sea change is in order as regards the relationship of people to drugs of any kind. We both underestimate the power and effect of drugs and we infantilize and treat those who need or use drugs of any kind and don’t allow them to develop a responsible and knowledgeable use, with both the costs and the benefits in mind.
It is people who are responsible, not the drugs. The DEA is not helping people assume responsibility, at the State, community, or personal level.
Criminalization has greater political cost, nationally and internationally in real terms than the social cost of decriminalization of even stimulants and opiates. But that is as yet to rational and adult for our times. We’d rather erode entire nation states and social responsibility than risk personal choice and consequence.
Dale Pendell, the author, has aptly compared our failed policies to a kind of Inguisition. What children we are, how unwise and infantile.
— Posted by edphil
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32.
April 24th,
2008
6:45 pm
It’s a time for change, with Democrats and Republicans coming together to end the prohibition that has been costing tax payers for over 25 years. Please contact your local congressional representative in support of these bills. The people are speaking, its time to listen to the voices, it’s a time for change, its time for tax payers not to be punished by paying the prison costs, its time to take away the income source of criminals and gangs. Freedom.
Act to Remove Federal Penalties for the Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults (Introduced in House)
HR 5843 IH
Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act(Introduced in House)
HR 5842 IH
http://www.house.gov/frank/hr5843summary.html
— Posted by Freedom
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33.
April 30th,
2008
7:56 pm
Just moved from NY to CA and was floored when I realized that a simple $100 visit to a Doctor’s office would grant me the right to smoke herb in public (anywhere cigarettes are permitted), carry up to 8 ounces on my person, and grow. Meanwhile back in the Empire state, you can still catch a felony for holding an 1/8th (I think…).
I simply told the doctor I was depressed…I haven’t been since!!! God bless the West.
— Posted by freshies
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34.
May 15th,
2008
10:52 am
#18 - Can you clarify please? I have brain freeze!
— Posted by Ben K
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35.
June 2nd,
2008
12:28 am
The decriminalization of marijuana would be the economic stimulus our nation needs so desperately right now. Just doing that one thing would release a flood of enterprise, prosperity and wealth worldwide the like of which we have never seen. The time is right.
— Posted by keaauwahine
1.
April 18th,
2008
3:36 pm
Marijuana will eventually be legalized simply because any reason to prohibit its use goes against scientific and medical fact. Therefore it is only illegal now due to its original reson for prohibition. Prejudice, first it was prejudice against the mexicans, then it took in all minorities now it is directed right at the poor innocent God created Cannabis Plant. I am 54 my step-sons (the Gen-X) generation and my son (the Rx generation, unfairly labeled I might add) will make sure marijuana is available legally for medical or recreational use. For a government to deny its people a safer less invasive drug for recreational or medical use is evil, cruel and insane. Put best, “Marijuana, in its natural form, is one of the most theraputically active substances known. It would be unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious for the DEA to continue to stand between those sufferer’s and the benefits of the substance.”—Francis L. Young DEA Chief Administrative Law Judge, 1988. Why did our government ignore this and tell Francis to redo it pointing out only the negative aspects of marijuana use (which he refused to do and quit) Sounds pretty political and non medical to me. It is well past the time for government to get the hell out of the way of scientific and medical research and treatments. Peace…
— Posted by Jeff
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2.
April 18th,
2008
5:40 pm
Barack Obama is clearly the superior candidate when it comes to this issue. He’s also said it should flat out be decriminalized back in a 2004 debate.
Right now, our Congressmen and women have a chance to do just that, by voting YES on both H.R. 5843, known as an “Act to Remove Federal Penalties for Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults,” and H.R. 5842, the “Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act”, introduced by both Reps. Barney Frank and Ron Paul. This is a bi-partisan effort to remove Federal penalties for possession of small amounts, and to disallow the DEA from raiding dispensaries in states where it’s legal.
I think they both have a good chance of success, and if they do, both Hillary and Barack will have a chance to put their money where their mouth is when the Senate votes on it.
— Posted by Derek Rosenzweig
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3.
April 18th,
2008
6:04 pm
To get the vote of the center-right, Senator Clinton takes the most useful position.
Her counterpart, Senator Obama, known for greater congruence between his thinking and speaking than Mrs. Clinton, claims a more rational approach.
If morphine is legal under a physician’s advise, why not marajuana?
I can offer teo reasons: the impact on the liquor industry and big pharmaceutical interests. Many persons would go from a $20 liter of Scotch to a bag of pot for under $1. And legal drugs (e.g., Valium for over $50 a bottle…).
[Yes, I admit that ‘medical’ marajuana would swiftly become availble to the general public even with its “pharmaceutucal” intentions. So what?
— Posted by David Chowes
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4.
April 18th,
2008
9:12 pm
The fact that Physicians cannot prescribe — and patients cannot use — an ancient herbal that has never killed from toxicity is indefensible illogical; irrational; inhumane; immoral; and yes, INSANE.
The pharmaceutical lobby say we must choose from their far superior, lab-tested options — the ones that kill tens of thousands of people per year.
And we say, “GULP.”
Remember ‘Deer Hunter’?
— Posted by Jemma Costa
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5.
April 18th,
2008
9:28 pm
An end to this particular Tyranny of the Majority is long past due.
Gallup.com shows that 1/3 of Americans are in favor of decriminalizing cannabis, yet every 42 seconds another arrest is made. This is truly an abuse of a substantial and intolerant Majority. Such abuse over non-violent consentual acts should face sharp criticism when compared with America’s spending on the largest prison population in the world (5% of worlds pop. / 25% of worlds incarcerated).
Freedom mandates Tolerance.
— Posted by juxtapostle
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6.
April 18th,
2008
10:55 pm
if you can allow people to decide for themselve whether or not they want to have a beer after work, then you can also let them decide if they wish to smoke a joint before bed.. thc is lipid soluble.. meaning its metabolism cannot cause the more worrisome effects of other real drugs. the war on drugs is just stupid to begin with. its a never ending ‘war’ on a vague idea that can never truly be won. but because of it’s legal status as a ‘war’ then it can be used to justify the seuspension of normal ‘peacetime’ rights and liberties under the constitution.
— Posted by pdiggles
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7.
April 18th,
2008
11:21 pm
Any nation with thriving alcohol and tobacco industries lacks moral authority to issue so much as a stern countenance toward any responsible adult use of the herb Cannabis. Deal with that.
Schedule II just won’t do. DE-schedule it.
— Posted by Richard Steeb
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8.
April 19th,
2008
12:10 am
72 percent of respondents agreed with the statement, “Adults should be allowed to legally use marijuana for medical purposes if a physician recommends it.”
POLL: AARP
DATE: November 2004
Sample Size: 1,706
80 percent of respondents supported allowing adults to “legally use marijuana for medical purposes.”
POLL: Time Magazine/CNN Poll
DATE: October 2002
Sample Size: 1,007
— Posted by Jemma Costa
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9.
April 19th,
2008
12:11 am
NEW YORK BENEFIT TO CELEBRATE RECENT MEDICAL MARIJUANA SUCCESSES
A Night of Music & Comedy to Help Push Campaign to Victory
May 14th – Highline Ballroom
Spring Soiree to Benefit Effort to Protect Seriously Ill New York Patients
Who Use Medical Marijuana
On Wednesday, May 14, 2008 the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP.org) will host a spring soiree, a night of comedy and music to benefit MPP’s efforts to protect seriously ill New Yorkers from arrest and jail if they use medical marijuana with their doctor’s recommendation. Patient advocate Joel Peacock will be honored and Sony/BMG recording artist Nicole Atkins & The Sea and other special guests will perform.
MPP is leading the fight to gain medical marijuana access for seriously ill New Yorkers who have the approval of their physicians. All funds raised will be used to pass a bill to make New York the 13th medical marijuana state in the country. An entertaining, energizing, and provocative evening is guaranteed. Your support will be part of the tipping point that brings about this momentous change!
The Host Committee for the event include: Joshua Baer, John Perry Barlow, Paul Bennett, Lewis Black, Richard Brookhiser, Tucker Carlson, Jason Flom, Savion Glover, Leslie Lansman, David C. Leven, Peter Lewis, Kurt Loder, Fred Newton, Medeski Martin and Wood, Michelle Phillips, ABC’s John Stossel, Ben Taylor, Montel Williams and Robert W. Wilson.
Last year - - for the first time ever - - the New York Assembly passed MPP’s medical marijuana bill - by a 95-52 vote, sending the bill over to the Senate. This was the result of a four-year lobbying effort that we commenced in 2003.
During that time, our lobbyist in Albany built an impressive coalition of institutional support, including the state physicians association, state nurses association, state public health association, and the city councils of Albany, Buffalo, and New York.
Before his resignation, Gov. Eliot Spitzer (D) expressed his openness to signing medical marijuana legislation, and the new Gov. Paterson seems likely to be a supporter as well, so all eyes are now focused on the Republican-controlled Senate, where Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno is supportive of allowing medical marijuana, but has not brought the issue to a vote.
With the Republicans facing a tough election this November, when they could very well lose control of the Senate, we’re hoping they’ll pay attention to the public opinion polling that indicates 76% of New York voters -and even 55% of Conservative Party voters in the state –support legal protection for medical marijuana patients.
The MPP benefit will take place at the Highline Ballroom, 431 W 16th Street between 9th and 10th Aves. (212) 414-5994. Tickets for $250 in advance- $300 at the door (most of your contribution is tax-deductible) are available at (202) 462-5747 Ext. 104 or www.mpp.org/highline
— Posted by gail parenteau
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10.
April 19th,
2008
3:28 am
“What we would do is prioritize what the DEA should be doing, and that would not be a high priority. There’s a lot of other more important work that needs to be done.”
How disingenuous. This makes me upset. Why does she have to play these dishonest games?
The DEA has made medical marijuana an extremely high priority ever since Hillary and her husband were in the White House.
Her husband was the one who spoke contemptuously of medical marijuana as “Cheech and Chong medicine.”
She knows that. She knows that darned well. She also knows that the arrest rate for marijuana TRIPLED under the Clinton administration. Marijuana was treated like public enemy number one by the Clintons.
News flash: marijuana will ALWAYS be a high priority for the DEA as long as it’s illegal. It’s bulky and smelly and far, far easier to detect than cocaine or heroin. Busting marijuana growers and dealers accounts for the majority of the DEA’s workload.
They are 1000% gung ho on busting medical marijuana providers. They want the whole movement stopped and they believe they are the only ones who can stop it.
She’s not going to change the DEA’s priorities. She knows that and she knows why.
The ONLY thing that can change the way the DEA enforces the law is a change in the law itself.
For example, rescheduling marijuana to schedule II or even III, where it rightfully belongs according to science and reason.
I can’t believe I ever supported her. All these games. Manipulative, disingenuous games that make a mockery of science and reason.
What a shame. Shame on her.
— Posted by Patricia
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11.
April 19th,
2008
6:28 am
Federal Decriminalization Bill Introduced — Bill Would End Federal Authority to Arrest Adults for Pot Possession
April 17, 2008 - Washington, DC, USA
Washington, DC: US Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA) introduced legislation in Congress today to strip the federal government of its authority to arrest responsible adult cannabis consumers. The measure, H.R. 5843, known as an “Act to Remove Federal Penalties for Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults,” is the first federal decriminalization legislation introduced in 24 years.
Federal Medical Marijuana Bill Introduced by Rep. Ron Paul
April 17, 2008 - Washington, DC, USA
Washington, DC: Representative Ron Paul (R-TX) introduced H.R. 5842, the “Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act,” earlier today. This bill would make federal authorities respect states’ current laws on medicinal cannabis and end DEA raids on facilities distributing medical marijuana legally under state law.
Representative Paul, whose presidential campaign prominently featured the ending of the drug war as a platform plank, was joined by Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) in sponsoring this bill.
— Posted by RevRayGreen
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12.
April 19th,
2008
9:16 am
Marijuana became illegal due to special interest
politics (Hearst and the timber industry wanted to eliminate competition from hemp) and prejudice against minority groups perceived as its primary users– economic opportunism, not scientific or social fairness.
A good half century of research desperately seeking to find scientific justification for classifying it with heroin and cocaine has failed miserably– it simply is not physically addictive. Coffee has physical withdrawal symptoms; marijuana does not. Marijuana does not kill people through overdose, and does not contribute to antisocial behavior. Unlike alcohol users, marijuana users don’t become violent, although they may be highly annoyed if there is a shortage of snacks. Unlike a drunk, a heavily stoned individual will not beat up his/her spouse; it’s too much hassle.
This country is not sane about its drug laws. The killer drugs alcohol and tobacco are legal while marijuana use makes individuals vulnerable to the criminal justice system. The illegal status of marijuana undermines the credibility of warnings about other, truly dangerous illegal drugs. If the government has lied about marijuana, why believe what it says about other illegal drugs? This is the true basis of the “gateway drug” argument.
Many, many casually prescribed drugs are much more dangerous and/or truly addictive, though we often don’t find out about the dangers of these drugs until long after the FDA has approved them. Research has shown that marijuana has useful medical applications, but those sufferers who need it– cancer patients and victims of chronic pain– are caught between legitimate medical need and fear of the law.
Finally, legalization of marijuana provides an opportunity for significant “sin tax” revenues. Even while illegal, it is a very significant cash crop. Using the tobacco model, it could be taxed at the level of the grower, the middle man, and the consumer. Given the national debt, the budget deficit, and the cost of supporting convicted users in prison, legalization simply makes good sense–
unless, of course, we believe like the Puritans that anyone trying to lessen their pain or having a little fun ought to be punished. A quick glance at contemporary American culture shows that we have long since abandoned that philosophy, except when marijuana is concerned.
It’s time to end the hypocrisy.
— Posted by llyn
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13.
April 19th,
2008
11:56 am
I want to send a message to Hillary and her supporters:
There is no way to change the priorities of the DEA without changing the law.
That’s what it’s going to take.
The DEA is more like a drug-busting cult than a government law enforcement agency. They’re on a mission. They love what they do. They aren’t busting dispensaries because they have to. They’re doing that because that is what they like to do. It’s part of their sense of mission. It’s very deep part of their sense of mission.
And they tend to think it’s their job to tell the President what to do, not the other way around.
No President is going to call them into the Oval Office and tell them to rearrange their priorities. That’s just not going to work.
The one and only thing that will protect patients is a change in the federal law.
Any candidate who isn’t willing to work towards a change in the federal law is making false promises to medical marijuana patients.
— Posted by Patricia
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14.
April 19th,
2008
1:18 pm
During a July 13, 2007 campaign rally held in Manchester, New Hampshire, a Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana (GSMM) volunteer told Sen. Clinton, “Twelve states allow medical marijuana but the Bush administration continues to raid patients,” to which she responded, “Yes, I know, it’s terrible.”
When the volunteer asked, “Would you stop the federal raids?” Sen. Clinton responded, “Yes, I will.”
YES. I. WILL.
Now, Hillary’s clearly side-stepping the “RAID” question with this “workings of pain spiel,” which means she will continue to use the DEA to circumvent state law to raid (possibly injure & kill); prosecute; and incarcerate people for following their doctors’ recommendations.
Horrific.
Given the American College of Physicians (ACP) recently spelled out the medical efficacy of marijuana for people dragging behind in the science department, Hillary’s flip-flopping is disturbing.
Anything short of ENDING THE RAIDS is INHUMANE & NOT ACCEPTABLE!
— Posted by Katrina
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15.
April 20th,
2008
11:38 am
Whatever happened to republicans honoring the rights of states? McCain, as a man of the military, probably never had the pleasure of such an indulgence. Such a shame. And he calls Obama an elite?
The self-involved baby-boomer generation is about to undergo some serious changes in their view of pain and what should be available to treat it. It’s cheap, wholesome, and smells delicious! Much better than a needle or a gel-capsuled lab creation. Plus, it’s a great reason to eat a brownie…
— Posted by EtonaLife
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16.
April 20th,
2008
2:45 pm
Cannabis users will always be a criminal class in this country. Get use to it. Join al-qaeda, after all, your already a criminal.
— Posted by Steve
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17.
April 20th,
2008
4:55 pm
Did Tierney have to phrase it like that? “Presidential Candidates on Marijuana”? I was expecting to see Hillary, Obama, McCain in a cypher styling.
— Posted by stateMachine
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18.
April 20th,
2008
7:38 pm
See now.
The smart candidate would be against State’s Rights to provide medical marijuana.
It goes back to simple code breaking. If you take into consideration that nothing bad is real, then you should know that no one is sick and no one needs medical marijuana. TRuST ME IT IS GOING TO PLAY OUT THIS WAY.
Furthermore, I am under the impression that people that are under 85ish in age(biological adulthood) cannot even use drugs (alcohol, marijuana, etc.).
The smart candidate would go for the ‘God status quo.’ Medical marijuana is illegal. Use of drugs of anyone under 85ish is illegal. Possession, though, is legal for anyone of all ages and if you are a biological adult then you may use drugs. This is the way The Law works.
When things work out this remember I said, “I told you so.”
— Posted by Robert Curley Jacobs
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19.
April 20th,
2008
8:52 pm
The American College of Physicians (ACP) on MEDICAL marijuana:
“A clear discord exists between the scientific community and federal legal and regulatory agencies over the medicinal value of marijuana, which impedes the expansion of research…”
“ACP strongly urges protection from criminal or civil penalties for patients who use medical marijuana as permitted under state laws.”
“Evidence not only supports the use of medical marijuana in certain conditions but also suggests numerous indications for cannabinoids.”
“The science on medical marijuana should not be obscured or hindered by the debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana for general use.”
– all excerpts from “Supporting Research into the Therapeutic Role of Marijuana” (Released by the American College of Physicians January 2008)
— Posted by Jemma C.
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20.
April 21st,
2008
9:24 am
There’s only one thing wrong w/marijuana…it’s illegal!
— Posted by 4Mary
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21.
April 21st,
2008
9:48 am
It is a waste of taxpayer money to throw responsible cannabis smokers in jail for non-violent offences. Doing this causes more harm to the person than smoking the herb itself. It is silly that marijuana still hasn’t been legalised. Alcohol, cigarette, cocaine, heroine, et cetera, all have deaths that involve their use. Ganja has not killed anyone.
Please write to your congressman on this issue (legislation has been introduced). For more information a helpful web site is
www.norml.org
You can write to your congressman from this site. We are not criminals…we pay taxes like everyone else.
— Posted by Darryl
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22.
April 21st,
2008
10:47 am
Our masters do not want us to pause and reflect on our sorry state. Consequently mood altering drugs that impair thinking are encouraged and drugs that cause reflection and introspection are prohibited.
The last thing our masters want is drugs that encourage thinking in the hands of their slaves. Let them drink themselves into a stupor - they will vote properly when drunk.
Anyhow you think a more drug-addled populace would be in their favor. Smoke some KB and the whole world looks rosier - even that really cool looking jet aircraft heading for your office building.
“Yo Maurice! Check out that awesome jet - groovy!”
— Posted by Greg Forest
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23.
April 22nd,
2008
7:31 am
I’m fascinated by post #18!
— Posted by mouse
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24.
April 22nd,
2008
2:24 pm
It is refreshing to read the postings of intelligent people agreeing on the core issue here: that prohibition of marijuana is illogical and incarceration of offenders is immoral. The hypocrisy is sickening (well put Mr. Steeb, posting #7).
And I too am fascinated by posting #18! More!
— Posted by Patio
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25.
April 22nd,
2008
8:32 pm
Just de-criminalize it and let three million American’s out of jail, hell here in Tennessee they are taking your cars/homes/Liberty over it!
As a registered Voter/Vet USAF, “I DIDN”T VOTE FOR THAT! “WHAT AN INJUSTICE/NEW REPUBLICAN POLICE STATE WE LIVE IN!
…”A time Comes….”When Silence…”IS BETRAYAL.”
–Martin L. King
…”True Patriotism Hates Injustice In ITs Own Land, “MORE,”Than Anywhere Else.” –Clarence Darrow
Sincerely, Tommy Birchfield, Voter/Vet USAF,
Master’s Program, East Tennessee State University
Spring…2008
— Posted by Tommy Birchfield
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26.
April 22nd,
2008
11:45 pm
for when you get back:
The study, which included a control group of patients who were given placebo cigarettes, found that the patients given real marijuana cigarettes experienced significant pain relief.
I KNEW IT WORKED
— Posted by latrine
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27.
April 23rd,
2008
12:45 am
Let’s see, in the past six months, how many have been killed by drugs from Merck & co and how many have been killed from smoking a J……in the same period. Last week I read that since 1995, the most accidental deaths in USA was not from guns or drunk driving (which I ademntly oppose ) but from DOCTOR perscribed drugs, mainly……methadone. Let’s compare that to cannabis. What about all the uses of hemp… food, fuel, textiles, plastic…these can all be made from hemp. Cannabis is one of the fastest growing plants and we all know plants can heal and clean our filthy air. I HAVE A DREAM, THAT HERB WILL BE FREE AND ABUNDANT…AND NEVER WILL ANY ONE TOKE ANYTHING BUT THE KIND!!!!!!!! Get off the white mans drugs and demand freedom for all of us herb toking, otherwise upright citizens.
Jahbless
— Posted by sole jah way
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28.
April 23rd,
2008
1:07 pm
This will surprise many people. Our votes for Presidetial candidates don’t count. It’s the Electoral College that elects our presidents. Many is the time that they elected a president over the popular vote. I have been a lifetime Republican because I’m against big government & for states rights. Now that the Republican party has completely abandoned it’s foundation. It’s just blowing in the wind like the Democrats. Has anyone noticed that the candidates will say anything, one thing, then a contrary thing just to appeal to everone. Wow! have they got a lot of people blinded with smoke & mirrors. Obama’s a hard drug using, radical eliteist. Clinton’s obviously all about power & money. McClain’s a hard-liner against marijuana & drugs in general. Even though he got his wife off some serious vicodan theft & abuse charges. They’re all the same. All have been co-opted by big spending special interest groups who want marijuana illegal at all cost. Amongst a whole host of interests. Follow the money trail. Oh, how I wish we could see their secret bank accounts. So, I’m giving up my life-long Republican affillitian to become a Liberal. How dare I waste my vote on Mike Gravel? Oh, I forgot, it doesn’t matter anyway. Remember the Electoral College? What a lie & farce all this country has become. I who grew up believing all the Government lies & propaganda. I still love our country & I’m still going to vote for Mike Gravel. But, I along with many American patriots, Loathe, fear & hate our current government. So, research who you really do vote for. Your state & federal officals. Then, vote for the best of them. It’s the best we can do.
— Posted by M Metner
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29.
April 23rd,
2008
1:52 pm
Obama’s comments on medical marijuana are interesting. It’s cool to compare them to all the other candidates: http://www.medicalmarijuanaprocon.org/pop/candidateview s.htm
Interesting that McCain is the only one of 8 candidates who is Con medical marijuana…
— Posted by sara
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30.
April 23rd,
2008
5:10 pm
anyone who suffers with real physical pain knows just how hard it can be sometimes to get a prescription for powerful pain medications, let alone medical marijuana, when normal meds won’t do the job.
and before the anti-drug crowd responds negatively, i was awaiting an operation to replace my damaged existing artificial hip, i was on crutches, and x-rays showed a fracture…and still it was extremely difficult to obtain any medication that actually worked to dull the pain of the fracture and loosening cement.
doctors are constantly monitored, and are fearful of what and how much they prescribe, even when the patient sitting in front of them has a genuine, legitimate need.
…unless of course you happen to be rush limbaugh.
— Posted by nutty
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31.
April 24th,
2008
1:20 pm
If you remember recent legislative history, in 1987 the conservatives in Congress were behind a push towards decriminalization of cannabis. Industry would rationally support legalization, as Philip Morris with it’s 35 year old vast seed bank will tell you.
No drug is without cost or effect on the body and mind; however, when compared with the opiates or the benzodiazepenes, both the toxicity of and the dependence on habitual or medical cannabis is well below either.
Of course, cannabis is not the pain-killer that morphine is either. It is both mild in effect, and mild in cost.
A sea change is in order as regards the relationship of people to drugs of any kind. We both underestimate the power and effect of drugs and we infantilize and treat those who need or use drugs of any kind and don’t allow them to develop a responsible and knowledgeable use, with both the costs and the benefits in mind.
It is people who are responsible, not the drugs. The DEA is not helping people assume responsibility, at the State, community, or personal level.
Criminalization has greater political cost, nationally and internationally in real terms than the social cost of decriminalization of even stimulants and opiates. But that is as yet to rational and adult for our times. We’d rather erode entire nation states and social responsibility than risk personal choice and consequence.
Dale Pendell, the author, has aptly compared our failed policies to a kind of Inguisition. What children we are, how unwise and infantile.
— Posted by edphil
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32.
April 24th,
2008
6:45 pm
It’s a time for change, with Democrats and Republicans coming together to end the prohibition that has been costing tax payers for over 25 years. Please contact your local congressional representative in support of these bills. The people are speaking, its time to listen to the voices, it’s a time for change, its time for tax payers not to be punished by paying the prison costs, its time to take away the income source of criminals and gangs. Freedom.
Act to Remove Federal Penalties for the Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults (Introduced in House)
HR 5843 IH
Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act(Introduced in House)
HR 5842 IH
http://www.house.gov/frank/hr5843summary.html
— Posted by Freedom
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33.
April 30th,
2008
7:56 pm
Just moved from NY to CA and was floored when I realized that a simple $100 visit to a Doctor’s office would grant me the right to smoke herb in public (anywhere cigarettes are permitted), carry up to 8 ounces on my person, and grow. Meanwhile back in the Empire state, you can still catch a felony for holding an 1/8th (I think…).
I simply told the doctor I was depressed…I haven’t been since!!! God bless the West.
— Posted by freshies
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34.
May 15th,
2008
10:52 am
#18 - Can you clarify please? I have brain freeze!
— Posted by Ben K
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35.
June 2nd,
2008
12:28 am
The decriminalization of marijuana would be the economic stimulus our nation needs so desperately right now. Just doing that one thing would release a flood of enterprise, prosperity and wealth worldwide the like of which we have never seen. The time is right.
— Posted by keaauwahine
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