NORML: Recent Episodes
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Patients’ disease severity fell an estimated 2 points on a 7-point scale following eight weeks of cannabinoid treatment.
The post Clinical Trial: Plant-Derived Cannabis Preparation Is Safe and Effective in Children with Autism appeared first on NORML.
"From job creation to tax revenue to improved innovation, legalization is driving economic prosperity."
The post Analysis: Adoption of Medical Cannabis Access Laws Associated With Increased Workplace Productivity, Innovation appeared first on NORML.
"Alarmist claims that adult-use legalization laws are linked with greater marijuana use by teens are simply not backed by government data. These findings ought to reassure lawmakers that cannabis access can be legally regulated in a manner that is safe, effective, and that does not inadvertently impact young people’s habits."
The post Federal Survey: Marijuana Use Continues Multiyear Decline Among Teens, Young Adults appeared first on NORML.
"There's no 'buyer's remorse' among Massachusetts' voters when it comes to legalizing cannabis and this fact will become even clearer come November."
The post Massachusetts: State Officials Affirm Marijuana Repeal Initiative Will Appear on November’s Ballot appeared first on NORML.
"Imposing excessive taxes on legal cannabis strengthens illicit markets while weakening legal ones."
The post Analysis: Tax Hikes on State-Legal Cannabis Products Drive Consumers To Unregulated Markets appeared first on NORML.
"Policies that mandate would-be hires to undergo urine screens for past cannabis exposure are holdovers from a bygone era. These policies are invasive, discriminatory, and they fail to contribute to a safe work environment."
The post Report: Nearly Half of Employers No Longer Screen Pre-Hires for Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
In a unanimous ruling, the Court the rejected arguments that marijuana use is a per se probation violation because the substance remains federally illegal.
The post Michigan: Supreme Court Ruling Allows for Marijuana Use While on Probation appeared first on NORML.
Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with 13 other Democratic original cosponsors, reintroduced the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) to end the federal prohibition of marijuana and establish a regulatory framework governing its production, sale, and use.
The post Senate Democrats Reintroduce Comprehensive Cannabis Descheduling and Regulation Legislation appeared first on NORML.
TSA's medical marijuana policy hasn't changed, despite widespread reports suggesting otherwise. Learn what prompted the confusion and what patients should know before traveling with cannabis.
The post Can I Fly With Medical Cannabis? appeared first on NORML.
NORML Summer ‘26 Intern Caroline Breen outlines the parallel histories and failures of alcohol and marijuana prohibition.
The post A Tale of Two Prohibitions appeared first on NORML.
Daily consumers demonstrated improvements in SDLP (standard deviation in lateral positioning) following cannabis ingestion. Both daily and occasional cannabis consumers reduced their speed following cannabis use, whereas those in the control group typically increased their speed.
The post Study: Daily Cannabis Consumers Exhibit Few Changes in Simulated Driving Performance Compared To Controls appeared first on NORML.
The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians is the only federally recognized Native American tribe in the state, with more than 11,000 Tribal members on 35,000 acres of territory.
The post Mississippi: Indian Tribe Approves Referendum Regulating the “Possession, Production, and Distribution of Marijuana on Tribal Lands” appeared first on NORML.
"Minnesotans already pay a premium tax on retail cannabis products. Raising these taxes even higher will undoubtedly drive prices out of reach for some consumers. This will push consumers back to the unregulated market, thereby undermining the primary goal of legalization."
The post Minnesota: Lawmakers Approve Marijuana Sales Tax Hike appeared first on NORML.
By taking cannabis products off street corners and placing them behind the counter, lawmakers are providing cannabis consumers with safer experiences and greatly reducing their risk of being inadvertently exposed to contaminated products.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Take Marijuana Off the Streets and Put It Behind the Counter appeared first on NORML.
The White House’s 2026 fiscal year budget request calls for the repeal of a long-standing federal budget rider that prohibits the Justice Department from using taxpayer dollars to prosecute patients and others involved in the state-legal medical cannabis industry.
The post Trump Budget Proposal Rescinds Long-Standing Federal Protections for Medical Cannabis Patients appeared first on NORML.
"Older adults are well aware of the litany of serious adverse side-effects associated with available prescription drugs, like opioids or sleep aids, and they see medical cannabis as a practical and potentially safer alternative."
The post Study: Rising Percentage of Seniors Acknowledge Regularly Consuming Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"California NORML is proud to have taken a leadership roll sponsoring this bill. Cannabis is already heavily over-taxed relative to comparable products like beer, wine, and tobacco in California."
The post California: Assembly Votes To Halt Impending Tax Hike on Commercially Available Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.
Provisions in the bill open the program to those suffering from chronic pain, among other newly eligible conditions. It also expands the variety of cannabis formulations that may be possessed by patients and significantly increases total number of state-licensed dispensaries that can operate in the state.
The post Texas: Lawmakers Advance Bill Expanding State’s Medical Cannabis Access Program appeared first on NORML.
As May draws to a close, it's high time to reflect upon the extraordinary accomplishments of our Asian American Pacific Islander and Jewish American communities in the cannabis legalization and consumer movements.
The post United in Reform: Celebrating Asian American, Pacific Islander & Jewish Cannabis Trailblazers appeared first on NORML.
"It is becoming clear that those who oppose marijuana policy reform would rather take voters out of the equation altogether."
The post Texas: Denton City Officials Repeal Voter-Approved Marijuana Depenalization Ordinance appeared first on NORML.
Politicians proclaim that 'elections have consequences.' Increasingly, however, when it comes to elections deciding marijuana policies, Republican lawmakers are seeking to ensure that they don’t.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Don’t Let Politicians Cancel Ohio’s Voter-Approved Marijuana Legalization Law appeared first on NORML.
"This legislation is anti-freedom, unnecessarily jeopardizes Montanans’ personal privacy, and seeks to fundamentally undermine the will of the 57 percent of voters who decided at the ballot box to legalize the adult-use cannabis market."
The post Montana: Republican Lawmaker Calls for State Surveillance of Consumers’ Retail Marijuana Purchases appeared first on NORML.
"Every year that we do not enact retail sales in Virginia for adult use marijuana is another year that the Commonwealth is choosing to continue ceding control of the marijuana market to untaxed, illicit operators."
The post Virginia: Lawmakers Approve Bills Regulating Adult-Use Cannabis Sales, But Governor’s Veto Looms appeared first on NORML.
Changes proposed by SB 56 include raising taxes on the retail sale of cannabis products, imposing new restrictions on home-cultivation, setting an arbitrary cap on the total number of retailers allowed statewide, and providing new penalties for adults who share their cannabis with others.
The post Ohio: GOP Lawmakers Move To Roll Back State’s Voter-Approved Marijuana Legalization Law appeared first on NORML.
"Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these cynical and undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern."
The post Colorado Springs: City Council Seeks To Overturn Election Outcome With New Marijuana Repeal Question appeared first on NORML.
We are supporting numerous bills that seek to expand the freedoms and liberties of responsible cannabis consumers.
The post NORML Is Standing Up for Your Rights appeared first on NORML.
"We have corrected an injustice where our employees were being unjustly punished and potentially having their careers destroyed for responsibly utilizing a legal substance on their own time."
The post Maryland: Annapolis City Council Members Vote to End Marijuana Testing for Public Employees appeared first on NORML.
Together, we are changing the way people talk and think about cannabis.
The post Join NORML in 2025 and Stand for Cannabis Freedom appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when most Americans are demanding long overdue changes in federal cannabis policy, Acting DEA Administrator Derek Maltz epitomizes the failed policies and approaches of the past.”
The post Career Drug Warrior Named Acting DEA Administrator appeared first on NORML.
"This action is an important step toward righting historic wrongs, correcting sentencing disparities, and providing deserving individuals the opportunity to return to their families and communities after spending far too much time behind bars," the President said in a statement.
The post Biden Administration Announces Commutations for Nearly 2,500 Non-Violent Drug Offenders appeared first on NORML.
The judges's decision cancels the previously scheduled hearing, set to begin next week, during which time proponents and opponents of marijuana rescheduling were to testify and face cross-examination.
The post DEA Judge Stays Marijuana Scheduling Proceedings appeared first on NORML.
"The current findings suggest [that] cannabis-based medicinal products may be effective in reducing suicidal ideation, as well as other facets of health and well-being."
The post Study: Patients Less Likely To Have Suicidal Thoughts Following Medical Cannabis Use appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when voters and their elected officials nationwide are re-evaluating state and federal marijuana policies, it is inconceivable that government agencies are unwilling to provide data on the estimated costs and scope of federal marijuana prohibition in America."
The post DEA Fails to Release Annual Report Highlighting Marijuana Seizures, Arrest Totals appeared first on NORML.
NORML Fall ’24 Legal Intern Ty Buffington shares his experience with the NORML Legal Internship program.
The post I Interned at NORML To Help End the War on Cannabis, and You Should Too appeared first on NORML.
"It is time for politicians and others to stop assessing cannabis through the lens of 'what we don’t know' and instead start engaging in evidence-based discussions about marijuana and marijuana reform policies that are indicative of all that we do know."
The post Analysis: Over 35,000 Scientific Papers Published About Cannabis During the Past Decade appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when voters and politicians are largely divided, there is one issue that Americans largely agree upon: It’s time to legalize and regulate marijuana."
The post Manhattan Institute Poll: Adults Overwhelmingly Oppose Marijuana Criminalization appeared first on NORML.
In the past decade alone, during which time 24 states legalized adult use marijuana sales, the percentage of 8th graders, 10th graders, and 12 graders who reported having ever consumed cannabis declined 32 percent, 37 percent, and 23 percent respectively.
The post Federally Funded Survey: Marijuana Use By Teens Is at Historic Low appeared first on NORML.
"Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these cynical and undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern."
The post Nebraska: Opponents File Second Lawsuit Seeking To Nullify Voter-Approved Medical Cannabis Initiatives appeared first on NORML.
Since 2020, over 139,000 commercially licensed truckers have tested positive on urine tests for past cannabis exposure, resulting in an industry-wide labor shortage.
The post Feds: Oral Fluid Testing Still Not an Option for Commercial Drivers Despite Last Year’s Rule Change appeared first on NORML.
DEA Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney has ordered witness testimony to begin on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
The post DEA Judge Provides Timeline for Witness Testimony in Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing appeared first on NORML.
Your support is more than just a donation; it's a commitment to a future where cannabis is rightfully recognized and respected, and those who use it responsibly no longer face discrimination and injustice.
The post Join the Marijuana Movement This Giving Tuesday appeared first on NORML.
Researchers determined that participants with a history of cannabis use experienced "significantly less cognitive decline" over their lifetimes than did non-users.
The post Study: Cannabis Use Not Associated With Later IQ Decline appeared first on NORML.
Senator Thune received an “F” grade from NORML in its 2024 voters guide.
The post Incoming Senate Majority Leader Has Long History of Opposing Marijuana Policy Reforms appeared first on NORML.
Scientists’ focus on cannabis has increased exponentially in recent years, as has our understanding of the plant, its active constituents, their mechanisms of action, and their effects on the user and upon society.
The post NORML Op-Ed: What We Know About Cannabis Far Exceeds What We Don’t appeared first on NORML.
"This survey's findings are an important addition to the growing body of literature suggesting that, in some instances, cannabis may act as an intervention for people seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption.”
The post Marijuana Consumers Frequently Report Substituting Cannabis for Alcohol, Other Substances appeared first on NORML.
Public support for legalizing marijuana remains near its all-time high and momentum in favor of reforming America’s failed cannabis criminalization policies continues to grow despite mixed results on election night.
The post Public Support for Legalization Remains Strong, Despite Election Night Setbacks appeared first on NORML.
While a final ruling in the litigation remains pending, voters will nonetheless be able to vote on the ballot measures. Those votes will be counted and results of the vote will be made public.
The post Nebraska: Voters Will Decide on Medical Marijuana Ballot Measures, but Await Judge’s Decision on Whether the Results Will Be Validated appeared first on NORML.
"An overwhelming majority of Americans oppose marijuana prohibition, and this has been the case for more than a decade. It borders on political malpractice that Congress has yet to take any meaningful action to comport federal cannabis laws with the will of the people."
The post Gallup: Public Support for Legalizing Marijuana Remains Near Historic High appeared first on NORML.
NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said that he was disappointed but hardly surprised by the DEA's decision to disproportionately include groups opposed to marijuana policy reform as designated participants. "The fight to end our nation's outdated and failed cannabis prohibition laws has never been fought on a level playing field," he said.
The post DEA Judge Pushes Back Timeline for In-Person Testimony in Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing appeared first on NORML.
Seriously, no one is doing this.
The post No One Wants To Give Your Kids Free Marijuana Edibles appeared first on NORML.
For me, "high" is a place... and sometimes I want to go there. And when it comes to my civil liberty to enjoy marijuana as a responsible adult, there’s no good reason for our government to stop me.
The post Rick Steves: It’s Time To Legalize the Adult Use of Marijuana in Florida appeared first on NORML.
Those populations most vulnerable to cannabis-related adverse health events stand to benefit from a regulatory environment that promotes consumer education, product quality control and responsible use.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Legalizing Marijuana Does Not Jeopardize Mental Health appeared first on NORML.
"States' real-world experience with marijuana legalization proves that these policies can be implemented in a manner that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse."
The post Study: Far Fewer High-Schoolers Are Consuming Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"This is a setback for the growth and improvement of our existing program, but it will not be the last attempt to ease the barriers Arkansas’s medical patients encounter."
The post Arkansas: Supreme Court Rules Against Medical Marijuana Ballot Measure appeared first on NORML.
At NORML, this is a stark reminder of why we do the work that we do and how much more still needs to be done.
The post Over 600 Americans Arrested Daily for Marijuana — Enough Is Enough appeared first on NORML.
"We believe NORML has well earned a seat at the table, and that it is in the public interest for it to be heard."
The post NORML Files Notice of Intent to Participate in DEA’s Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing appeared first on NORML.
"Hundreds of thousands of Americans continue to be arrested annually for low-level cannabis-related violations even though a majority of voters no longer believe that the responsible use of marijuana by adults should be a crime.”
The post FBI: Nearly One Quarter of All Drug-Related Arrests Are for Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.
At a time when voters and politicians are historically divided, there is one issue that Americans largely agree upon: It’s time to legalize marijuana.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Both Presidential Candidates Agree: We Need To Stop Arresting People for Marijuana appeared first on NORML.
"Our results suggest that adults who use cannabis ... experience few significant long-term neural associations in these areas of cognition."
The post Study: Sustained Use of Medical Cannabis Is Not Associated With Changes in Either Brain Morphology or Cognitive Performance appeared first on NORML.
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 9-5 to approve legislation which will eliminate the ability of federal agencies to disqualify applicants for federal jobs and security clearances for solely for prior cannabis use.
The post Senate Committee Approves Measure to End Consideration of Past Cannabis Use for Federal Jobs and Security Clearances appeared first on NORML.
"These audio recordings reinforce the fact that the federal government's decision to strictly criminalize marijuana was primarily a political one," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said.
The post Newly Uncovered Nixon Audio: Marijuana Isn’t “Particularly Dangerous,” Penalties Should Be Reevaluated appeared first on NORML.
"Many older adults struggle with pain, anxiety, restless sleep, and other conditions for which cannabis products often mitigate. Many older adults are also well aware of the litany of serious adverse side-effects associated with available prescription drugs, like opioids or sleep aids, and they perceive medical cannabis to be a practical and potentially safer alternative.”
The post Survey: Rising Percentage of Older Adults Are Turning to Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when voters are historically divided, ending America's failed marijuana policies is one issue that Americans largely agree on."
The post Trump Reiterates Support for Florida’s Amendment 3, Says He Will Work With Congress to Advance Federal Reforms appeared first on NORML.
Nearly 40 years ago, advocates made the case to the DEA’s own judge that cannabis did not meet the definition of a Schedule I controlled substance. Their case is exponentially stronger now.
The post NORML Op-Ed: DEA’s Marijuana Hearing Is a Good Opportunity for Advocates To Make the Case for Rescheduling appeared first on NORML.
Statewide polling indicates that between 70 percent and 80 percent of Nebraskans support legalizing medical marijuana access.
The post Nebraska: Voters to Decide on Medical Cannabis Access Measures appeared first on NORML.
Justices determined, "Marijuana user or not, [the defendant] is a member of our political community and thus has a presumptive right to bear arms. By infringing on that right, 922(g)(3) contradicts the Second Amendment’s plain text.”
The post Federal Appeals Court Once Again Rejects Blanket Gun Ban for Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
There’s no doubt that the outcomes of this coming election will have major implications for the future of marijuana policy reform.
The post Marijuana Is on the Ballot This November appeared first on NORML.
The hearing is scheduled to commence on Monday, December 2, 2024.
The post DEA Administrator Announces Intent To Hold Hearing on Marijuana’s Scheduling appeared first on NORML.
Those wedded to the status quo of cannabis criminalization have long warned that legalizing the marijuana market will result in increased adolescent use. But 10 years following the first states’ decisions to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis sales, data conclusively shows that this fear was unfounded.
The post NORML Op-Ed: A Decade Into States Legalizing Marijuana, Underage Use Has Plummeted appeared first on NORML.
"In jurisdictions where state lawmakers remain resistant to repealing outdated and overly punitive marijuana possession laws, petitioning for these sort of local changes is a viable way to provide immediate relief to thousands of consumers who would otherwise face potentially life-altering repercussions resulting from a marijuana arrest and criminal record."
The post West Virginia: Charleston Adopts Citizens-Initiated Measure Depenalizing Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.
In Congress, far too many politicians remain wed to the sort of “Reefer Madness” view that most voters have long since abandoned. Like Harris did, they also need to evolve their views on cannabis to more closely align with current scientific and public consensus.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Like Most Americans, Vice-President Harris Has Evolved on Marijuana appeared first on NORML.
“Legalizing and regulating adult-use cannabis access is not only good policy, but it’s also good politics. State and federal politicians who continue to ignore their constituents’ sentiments on these issues do so at their own political peril.”
The post Polling: Swing State Voters Overwhelmingly Back Cannabis Legalization, Other Reforms appeared first on NORML.
“There appears to be no rational explanation for why the state of Missouri would dramatically increase the amount of a very toxic substance in legal cannabis products when none of it whatsoever should be present in them.”
The post Missouri: NORML Affiliate Questions State Regulators’ Decision to Permit Toxic Additive in Certain Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.
North Dakota voters will decide on Election Day whether to approve a citizens' initiated ballot measure legalizing the use, home cultivation, and retail sale of cannabis.
The post North Dakota: Marijuana Legalization Measure Will Appear on November Ballot appeared first on NORML.
The percentage of high-schoolers who identify as current consumers of cannabis fell 26 percent between 2013 and 2023.
The post CDC Data Highlights Sustained Decline in Youth Marijuana Use appeared first on NORML.
Summer '24 Intern Jack Kenyon shares his experience with the NORML Legal Internship program.
The post Reflecting on My Legal Internship With NORML appeared first on NORML.
Physicians already possess the discretion to prescribe any number of medications, like opioids, which pose far greater risks to health than marijuana. It is appropriate that health care providers possess the same freedom to make medical cannabis-related decisions as they do when choosing to authorize other therapeutic options for their patients.
"Retailers provide consumers with the option of obtaining lab-tested products in a safe, regulated environment. The sooner consumers have market access to cannabis products, the more quickly we will begin to see disruptions to the unregulated marketplace."
The post Ohio: State Officials Announce Start Date for Retail Cannabis Sales appeared first on NORML.
The NSDUH data reports that the percentage of those ages 12 to 17 who reported having ever tried marijuana fell 18 percent from 2014 to 2023. Those reporting having consumed cannabis during the past year fell 15 percent. The percentage of teens reporting current marijuana use fell 19 percent.
The post Government Survey Data Shows Nearly 20 Percent Decline in Teen Marijuana Use Over Past Decade appeared first on NORML.
Voters in the cities of Bastrop, Dallas, and Lockhart are expected to vote this November on municipal ballot measures halting most low-level marijuana arrests.
The post Texas: Voters in Multiple Cities to Determine Marijuana Depenalization Measures This November appeared first on NORML.
“These findings highlight the need for proper regulatory oversight of cannabinoid-containing products to ensure quality assurance and deter misleading or unfounded health claims in product marketing,” the study's authors concluded.
The post Analysis: Most Commercially Available CBD Products Mislabeled, Make Misleading Claims appeared first on NORML.
“Prevalence of cannabis use did not change among youth over time,” the study’s authors concluded.
The post Analysis: No Increase in Rates of Marijuana Use Among Youth Over Past Decade appeared first on NORML.
The proposed ordinance states: "The City’s policy shall be to make enforcement of Class A and Class B misdemeanor marijuana possession its lowest enforcement priority. The City shall update its relevant policies to ensure that public safety resources are not wasted on misdemeanor marijuana enforcement."
The post Texas: Dallas Voters To Decide Marijuana Depenalization Measure This Fall appeared first on NORML.
Summer ’24 Intern Zach Kaplan shares his reasons for joining the NORML Internship program.
The post I’m Interning With NORML To Help Undo Harmful Policies appeared first on NORML.
"In these comments ANA agrees with the analysis that cannabis has numerous therapeutic qualities and should be moved to Schedule III. Further, ANA urges the Department of Justice and Drug Enforcement Administration to act expeditiously to have cannabis decontrolled under the CSA."
The post American Nurses Association Provides Public Comments to DEA in Support of Reclassifying Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"Although the HHS is not recommending descheduling at this time, NORML asserts that this position is the most appropriate one and that descheduling cannabis should be adopted by future administrations."
The post NORML Submits Public Comments to DEA Calling for the Removal of Cannabis From Schedule I appeared first on NORML.
Summer ’24 Intern Sydney Scott shares her reasons for joining the NORML Legal Internship program.
The post I’m Interning With NORML To Help End the Stigma Against Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
If certified for the ballot and approved by voters in November, all three measures will prohibit local law enforcement from making low-level marijuana-related arrests.
The post Texas: Activists Turn in Signatures to Place Local Depenalization Initiatives on the 2024 Ballot appeared first on NORML.
Cannabis reform advocates in Arkansas, Nebraska, and North Dakota have turned in signatures to place citizens'-initiated measures on the 2024 ballot.
The post Advocates Turn in Signatures for Marijuana-Specific Ballot Measures in Three More States appeared first on NORML.
RAW’s generous donation will amplify NORML’s efforts to facilitate the expungement of criminal cannabis convictions, end the collateral consequences of prohibition, and ensure equal access to cannabis for all.
The post RAW Rolling Papers Donates $50,000 to NORML Supporting Nationwide Cannabis Legalization appeared first on NORML.
That’s why we won’t rest until we have liberated cannabis consumers and patients nationwide.
The post NORML Stands for Cannabis Freedom Today and Every Day appeared first on NORML.
Summer '24 Intern Noah Bass shares his reasons for joining the NORML Internship program.
The post Interning with NORML: A Door to a Lifetime of Advocacy appeared first on NORML.
"These surveys' findings offer support for the notion that, in some instances, cannabis can act as an intervention for certain persons seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption.”
The post Surveys: Many Consumers Report Drinking Less Alcohol Following Changes to Marijuana’s Legal Status appeared first on NORML.
"State law already recognizes that no one should be in jail for possessing small amounts of marijuana; this new law similarly recognizes that no one should be in jail for possessing marijuana paraphernalia."
The post Louisiana: Governor Signs Legislation Decriminalizing Possession of Marijuana Paraphernalia appeared first on NORML.
"Governors and lawmakers around the country are taking steps to right the past wrongs of cannabis criminalization. It's a shame to see Louisiana's Governor taking the state in a different direction."
The post Louisiana: Governor Vetoes Bill Facilitating Expedited Pardons for First-Time Marijuana Offenders appeared first on NORML.
Summer '24 Intern Jack Kenyon shares his reasons for joining the NORML Legal Internship program.
The post I’m Interning at NORML To Learn How To Change the Legal System appeared first on NORML.
Moore’s pardon action automatically forgives every misdemeanor marijuana possession charge the Maryland judiciary can locate in the state’s electronic court records system, along with every misdemeanor paraphernalia charge tied to use or possession of marijuana.
The post Maryland: Governor to Issue Mass Pardons For Those With Misdemeanor Marijuana Convictions appeared first on NORML.
"For the foreseeable future, New Hampshire will remain an island of cannabis prohibition."
The post New Hampshire: House Lawmakers Narrowly Defeat Bill Legalizing Marijuana Possession, Sales appeared first on NORML.
Investigators determined, “Secondhand harms from others’ alcohol use were substantially more prevalent than those from others’ use of any other drug."
The post Study: Americans Far More Likely To Report Secondhand Harms From Alcohol Than From Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"He was a principled man and a scholar who was committed to promoting the concept of individual liberty and who was at the forefront of the modern effort to dismantle the so-called 'war on drugs.'"
The post NORML Remembers David Boaz appeared first on NORML.
Both bills await action from Republican Gov. Jeff Landry legislation. If the Governor fails to take action on the bills within ten days of them being transmitted, they will automatically become law.
The post Louisiana: Lawmakers Send Governor Bills to Decriminalize Marijuana-Related Paraphernalia, Pardon First-Time Offenders appeared first on NORML.
November's vote will mark the third time since 2020 that South Dakotans have weighed in on the issue.
The post South Dakota: Voters Will Decide on Marijuana Possession Measure This Fall appeared first on NORML.
The new law provides discretion to physicians to issue medical cannabis recommendations to any patient who may benefit from it. It also allows those ages 65 or older to self-certify for a registration card absent a doctor’s recommendation.
The post Delaware: Governor Signs Medical Cannabis Expansion Bill Into Law appeared first on NORML.
As a first step forward, this policy change dramatically shifts the political debate surrounding cannabis.
The post NORML Op-Ed: The Beginning of the End of Cannabis Prohibition appeared first on NORML.
"NORML is in a unique position to mobilize interested parties to provide their perspectives throughout the public comment period and we will be encouraging advocates and experts to do so in the coming weeks."
The post Justice Department Publishes Proposed Rule to Reclassify Cannabis, Begins Accepting Public Comments appeared first on NORML.
New Hampshire is the only New England state that prohibits adult-use cannabis sales.
The post New Hampshire: Senators Provide Initial Approval for Limited Marijuana Sales appeared first on NORML.
“As more states have adopted legalization, public support for this policy has risen dramatically. That’s because these policies are largely working as intended and because voters prefer legalization and regulation over the failed policy of marijuana prohibition.”
The post Poll: Registered Voters’ Support Legalizing Marijuana By a Margin of More Than Two-To-One appeared first on NORML.
In a video message, the President called the proposed scheduling change "monumental."
The post White House Endorses Marijuana Rescheduling Plan; Says Cannabis’ Placement as a Schedule I Substance “Just Doesn’t Add Up” appeared first on NORML.
"I was so happy with the internship that I did it twice! It has been so inspiring and educational to be involved with policy in this way."
The post The Value of a NORML Internship appeared first on NORML.
That is why, some 50 years after NORML first began this fight, I am pleased to see the federal government finally acknowledge what we – and millions of Americans – have known all along: That marijuana is a legitimate therapy for many Americans and that it doesn’t belong in Schedule I.
The post A Decision More Than 50 Years in the Making appeared first on NORML.
"Most Americans have tried cannabis and few regret having done so. This is reflected in the public’s consistent support for legalizing and regulating cannabis.”
The post Poll: Majority of Americans Have Tried Marijuana and Say It Should Be Legal appeared first on NORML.
If certified for the ballot, it will be the third time since 2020 that South Dakotans have weighed in on the legalization issue.
The post South Dakota: Activists Turn in Signatures To Place Adult-Use Legalization Measure on November’s Ballot appeared first on NORML.
“When it comes to retail cannabis, the prevailing attitude is ‘Buy American.’”
The post Report: Seizure Data Suggests State-Legal Cannabis Market Has Significantly Curbed Demand for Mexican-Grown Marijuana appeared first on NORML.
Perhaps most tellingly, our political opponents are also touting its significance, pledging to take whatever steps necessary to derail this proposed policy change.
The post Federal Marijuana Rescheduling Announced appeared first on NORML.
“It is significant for these federal agencies, and the DEA and FDA in particular, to acknowledge publicly for the first time what many patients and advocates have known for decades: that cannabis is a safe and effective therapeutic agent for tens of millions of Americans.”
The post DEA Accepts Health Agency’s Recommendation to Reclassify Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
"These findings, and others, refute hypothesized associations between cannabis use and low motivation. It is unfortunate that many of these longstanding stereotypes have historically guided public health messaging about cannabis and have also been used to stigmatize and discriminate against those who consume it responsibly."
The post Study: Frequent Cannabis Use Not Linked to Motivation Loss appeared first on NORML.
Consistent with prior analyses, researchers determined, “There was no evidence that RML [recreational marijuana laws] were associated with encouraging youth marijuana use."
The post JAMA Psychiatry: “No Evidence” That Marijuana Legalization Laws Encourage Youth Use appeared first on NORML.
More than 150,000 licensed drivers have left the profession in recent years because of these zero-tolerance workplace drug testing policies.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Feds Must Change ‘Discriminatory’ Marijuana Testing Policies To Address Trucking Industry Labor Shortage appeared first on NORML.
Maine is the 25th state to enact legislation explicitly facilitating the expungement of marijuana-specific convictions.
The post Maine: Governor Signs Legislation Providing Pathway For Marijuana-related Expungements appeared first on NORML.
"While expediting timelines may seem advantageous, the potential negatives embedded within the bill outweigh any perceived benefits. Patient access and rights must take precedence over expediency.”
The post Kentucky: Governor Signs Legislation Expediting Medical Cannabis Licensing, But Also Adding New Restrictions Upon Patients’ Access appeared first on NORML.
“As more states have adopted legalization, public support for this policy has risen dramatically among voters -- regardless of party affiliation. Elected officials who refuse to take action to end cannabis criminalization do so at their own political peril.”
The post Polls: Most Americans Endorse Legalization, Say Cannabis Is Safer Than Either Alcohol Or Tobacco appeared first on NORML.
April 20 is the most widely celebrated day in cannabis culture. This 4/20, we have plenty to celebrate.
The post Celebrate Our Success This 4/20 appeared first on NORML.
After a century of failed policies and “canna-bigotry,” the verdict is in. Legalization is a success, and the end of cannabis prohibition can’t come soon enough.
The post NORML Op-Ed: State-level Marijuana Legalization Has Been A Stunning Success appeared first on NORML.
“Together, results found no net increases in cannabis or, through spillover effects, alcohol or tobacco use among adolescents in response to the rapid rise of RCL [recreational cannabis legalization] and RCR [recreational cannabis retail sales]. Results suggest that legalization and greater control over cannabis markets have not facilitated adolescents’ entry into substance use.”
The post JAMA Pediatrics: Legalization Laws Linked With Fewer Teens Using Marijuana, Other Intoxicants appeared first on NORML.
"The sooner consumers have market access to cannabis products, the more quickly we will begin to see disruptions to the unregulated marketplace."
The post Ohio: Adult-use Marijuana Sales Anticipated To Begin Ahead Of Schedule appeared first on NORML.
"Virginia's firefighters, emergency services providers, and civil servants across the Commonwealth deserve the same job protections currently provided to private employees for their lawful and responsbile use of medical cannabis. This is a long overdue victory."
The post Virginia: Governor Approves Bills To Expand Employment Protections, Vetoes Parental Rights Protections appeared first on NORML.
Local establishments authorized to permit adults to consume cannabis on their premises will be able to expand their operations to include food services and live events, under legislation advanced to the Governor’s desk.
The post California: Legislation Advanced to Governor Permitting Live Events at Marijuana On-Site Consumption Lounges appeared first on NORML.
Fall '23 intern Ashley Culbertson shares her reasons for joining the NORML team for the semester.
The post I’m Interning With NORML To Gain the Skills To Enact Change in My Home State appeared first on NORML.
"In spite of blatant Congressman Chuck Edwards' blatant attempts at intimidation and interference with tribal sovereignty, members of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians have stood up for their rights and for the rights of cannabis consumers throughout the state."
The post North Carolina: Tribal Voters Approve Measure to Allow for Eventual Sales of Marijuana to Adults appeared first on NORML.
"This milestone reflects the reality that advocates have been engaged in a multi-decade long struggle to compel the federal government to acknowledge the obvious: that cannabis possesses therapeutic benefits. It also highlights the fact that the federal government’s ongoing refusal to do so has been strictly a political decision."
The post 35 Years Ago Today: DEA’s Chief Administrative Law Judge Ruled That Cannabis Should Be Reclassified Under Federal Law appeared first on NORML.
Cannabis must be descheduled by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act altogether.
The post Rescheduling Marijuana Is Not Enough appeared first on NORML.
It is misleading at best and disingenuous at worst to imply that cannabis smoke exposure is either equal to or more hazardous to health than tobacco smoking, or to imply that long-term data on its respiratory effects do not exist.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Let’s Dispel the Myth that Cannabis Smoke and Tobacco Smoke Are Equally Hazardous to Health appeared first on NORML.
The HHS recommendation now goes to DEA, which possesses the final authority to schedule or reschedule a drug under the Controlled Substances Act.
The post Report: Leaked HHS Letter Calls Upon DEA to Reschedule Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
While interning at NORML, Sydney Jenkins hopes to become a stronger advocate for those who have been punished for their use of marijuana, and to become a better advocate for justice in her community.
The post I’m Interning at NORML to Become a Stronger Advocate for Justice appeared first on NORML.
“Only 18.4 percent [of the evaluated products] probably used natural hemp-derived delta-9 THC,” the study’s authors concluded.
The post Analysis: Many ‘Hemp-Derived’ Delta-9 THC Products Sold Over the Counter Contain Synthetically Derived THC appeared first on NORML.
The survey’s findings are consistent with those of others reporting rising rates of cannabis use among older adults and seniors.
The post Federal Survey: One in Five Older Adults Have Consumed Cannabis in the Past Year appeared first on NORML.
We can liberate cannabis for another 11 million Americans.
The post Major Marijuana Legalization Vote this November appeared first on NORML.
"Historically, when given the choice, voters have consistently chosen to reject cannabis criminalization and to embrace legalization and regulation. Ohioans have seen similar legalization laws adopted in neighboring states and they know that regulating the cannabis market is preferable to the failed policy of prohibition."
The post Ohio: Voters Will Decide on Adult Use Legalization Measure This November appeared first on NORML.
Although the study's lead author criticized Americans' changing perceptions toward cannabis, numerous scientific studies reinforce the fact that cannabis smoke exposure poses far fewer risks to health than does tobacco.
The post Survey Highlights Changing Perceptions Regarding Cannabis and Tobacco appeared first on NORML.
"In short, our history and tradition may support some limits on an intoxicated person’s right to carry a weapon, but it does not justify disarming a sober citizen based exclusively on his past drug usage."
The post Appeals Court Rejects Federal Gun Ban for Marijuana Consumers appeared first on NORML.
NORML’s work for cannabis consumers never takes a vacation.
The post The Fight for Legalization Doesn’t Take a Summer Break appeared first on NORML.
Summer '23 Intern Marlie Thompson details her experience at NORML
The post Spending the Summer Interning with NORML appeared first on NORML.
Overall, 83 percent of Democratic-leaning respondents endorsed legalization as compared to 55 percent of Republican-leaning respondents.
The post Gallup: Majority of Republicans Support Legalization, but Partisan Gap Remains appeared first on NORML.
State officials are set to begin providing financial reimbursements to hundreds of thousands of residents with prior convictions for the possession of marijuana and other controlled substances.
The post Washington: State Launches Online Reimbursement Portal for Those with Past Marijuana Convictions appeared first on NORML.
Consistent with prior studies, investigators reported “no difference in workplace injury risk” among those employees who consumed cannabis while away from the job versus abstainers.
The post Study: Cannabis Use During Off-Hours Not Associated with Elevated Risk of Workplace Accidents appeared first on NORML.
The possession and home cultivation of marijuana is now legal for Minnesotans.
The post Another State Liberates Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
The responsible use of cannabis should never cost you your job.
The post End Workplace Discrimination Against Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
“Nearly half of all Americans now reside in a jurisdiction where the adult use of cannabis is legal," NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "To date, no state has moved to either curtail or repeal these legalization laws. That’s because these policies are working largely as voters and lawmakers intended and they are clearly preferable to criminal marijuana prohibition."
The post Minnesota: Adult Use Legalization Law Takes Effect Next Week appeared first on NORML.
Those who consume alcohol legally and responsibly while away from their jobs aren’t punished by their employers unless their work performance is adversely impacted. Those who legally consume cannabis should be held to a similar standard.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Workplace Drug Testing Rules Must Comport with Cannabis’ Evolving Legal Status appeared first on NORML.
“Our study provides novel information on workers’ use of cannabis for their work-related conditions, a population for which little data exist. … Findings of this study demonstrate workers are turning to cannabis many months following the onset of their original work-related condition."
The post Analysis: One in Seven Use Cannabis to Recover from Work-Related Injuries appeared first on NORML.
Earlier this month, Marylanders experienced their first taste of cannabis freedom. In a few weeks, Minnesotans will join them. Who will be the next?
The post There’s No Stopping the Cannabis Revolution appeared first on NORML.
Data suggests that endocannabinoids (namely anandamide), rather than endorphins, are responsible for the so-called 'runner's high' experience.
The post Study: Cannabis Use Enhances ‘Runner’s High’ During Exercise appeared first on NORML.
The Michigan Civil Service Commission has voted unanimously to adopt new rules ending the practice of pre-employment marijuana screening for most state workers. Under the new policy, those previously denied positions because of a failed marijuana test are also now eligible to immediately reapply for employment.
The post Michigan Ends Marijuana Pre-Employment Screens for Most State Employees appeared first on NORML.
This week's updates include developments in: CA, MA, ME, NJ, NY, & PA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 7/12/2023 appeared first on NORML.
A statewide poll of likely voters reported strong support for adult-use legalization among Democrats (79 percent) and Independents (61 percent), but far less support among Republicans (40 percent).
The post Ohio: Advocates Turn In Nearly Twice the Number of Signatures Necessary to Place Marijuana Legalization Initiative on November’s Ballot appeared first on NORML.
Thanks to your advocacy, activism, and support, dozens of new marijuana laws took effect around the country this month.
The post Major Changes to Cannabis Law Take Effect Around the U.S. appeared first on NORML.
This week's update highlights legislative developments in CA, FL, OH, & OR.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 7/6/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Seven years after California voters passed Proposition 64 in 2016, successfully legalizing marijuana possession, cultivation, and sales, the courts are finally nearly finished relieving all qualifying cannabis cases.
The post California Addresses 90% of Cannabis Cases in Expungement Efforts appeared first on NORML.
Multiple improvements to the state’s medical program became law July 1, 2023.
The post Virginia: Changes to Medical Cannabis Laws Take Effect appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include legislative developments in CA, FL, ME, & PA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/28/2023 appeared first on NORML.
As of this Saturday, July 1st, those age 21 or older may begin legally growing personal use quantities of cannabis at home.
The post Connecticut: Law Change Permitting Adults to Home Cultivate Cannabis Takes Effect on Saturday appeared first on NORML.
Descheduling cannabis removes the threat of undue federal intrusion in existing state marijuana programs and respects America’s longstanding federalist principles allowing states to serve as “laboratories of Democracy."
The post NORML Op-Ed: Cannabis Must Be Removed from the Controlled Substances Act to Resolve State/Federal Conflicts appeared first on NORML.
Beginning on July 1, those age 21 or older may legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower and/or 12 grams of cannabis concentrates.
The post Maryland: Adult-Use Marijuana Legalization Laws Take Effect Next Week appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include LA, ME, NV, NJ, PA, & VT.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/21/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Excess tax burdens imposed on state-legal cannabis businesses are destroying their profitability. These states are legislating change.
The post 280E is Harming Legal Cannabis Businesses; These States are Legislating Change appeared first on NORML.
"Interning with NORML provides me with the opportunity to engage in projects that closely align with my passion. I aspire to change the social stigmas surrounding marijuana and marijuana use. I also aspire to promote the therapeutic utility of cannabis."
The post I’m Interning at NORML to Become a Better Advocate appeared first on NORML.
"Tens of thousands of Louisianans carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that the majority of state residents no longer believe should be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Louisiana: Governor Signs Marijuana Expungement Legislation Into Law appeared first on NORML.
The new law significantly increases the amount of cannabis patients may home cultivate and doubles the amount of THC available in certain marijuana products.
The post Vermont: Legislation Becomes Law Increasing THC Limits, Plant Counts for Patients appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: CA, CO, IL, LA, ME, NV, NY, OH, PA, & VT
The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/14/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“This measure reinforces the reality that the responsible, adult-use of cannabis is legal in the state of Maine and that those who engage in this lawful behavior should not face discrimination for their actions.”
The post Maine: Lawmakers Advance Legislation Protecting Cannabis Use While on Probation appeared first on NORML.
"This study found no evidence for increased cannabis use among youth living in zip codes with active medical cannabis dispensaries. In fact, 12th graders living in zip codes with dispensaries had lower past-year and past-30-day cannabis use."
The post Analysis: Proximity to Cannabis Dispensaries Not Correlated with Higher Rates of Youth Marijuana Use appeared first on NORML.
“Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Rhode Island: Courts Expunge Over 20,000 Marijuana-Related Convictions in Six Months appeared first on NORML.
Eighty-three percent of participants said that cannabis is “less harmful to a person’s health compared to alcohol” and 67 percent said that it is a “highly important treatment for older adults.”
The post Survey: Older Adults Hold Positive Attitudes Toward Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: CA, LA, NV, NY, OH, & PA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/7/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"This bill will facilitate trusted university partners to engage in the kinds of research that will best equip state and federal lawmakers and regulators to develop effective cannabis policies based on public health and safety, will allow consumers to make more informed choices, and will help train the next generation of cannabis researchers."
The post New Federal Bill Appropriates Millions Toward University-Sponsored Cannabis Research appeared first on NORML.
“It is clear that many counties have made no serious effort to comply with the requirements of the Missouri Constitution," Missouri NORML Coordinator Dan Viets said. “It should not be necessary to seek a court order in order to force our courts to comply with the Missouri Constitution, but if that is what is required, we may pursue that option."
The post Missouri: Courts Expunge Over 40,000 Cannabis-Related Convictions Ahead of Legal Deadline, But Some Counties Remain Non-Compliant appeared first on NORML.
Justices reversed a lower court decision and concluded that certain “sale-related marijuana offenses are eligible for expungement” under the state’s 2020 voter-initiated legalization law.
The post Arizona: Appellate Court Expands Pool of Marijuana-Related Convictions Eligible for Expungement Relief appeared first on NORML.
Proponents say that the law's intent is to limit the number of in-person cash transactions taking place at licensed retailers.
The post Colorado: Legislation Becomes Law Permitting Online Sales of Retail Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.
Marijuana reform legislation continues to advance in several states. This week's update highlights legislative developments in CA, LA, MD, ME, MN, NC, & TX.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/31/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Summer '23 Intern Marlie shares her reasons for joining the NORML team.
The post I’m Interning at NORML to Fight Against the War on Drugs appeared first on NORML.
Adults may legally possess cannabis on August 1, 2023. State officials at that time will begin the process of reviewing and expunging tens of thousands of marijuana convictions.
The post Minnesota Becomes the 23rd Legal Marijuana State appeared first on NORML.
"In the largest trial to date involving experienced users smoking cannabis, there was no correlation between THC (and related metabolites/cannabinoids) in blood, OF [oral fluid], or breath and driving performance. … The complete lack of a relationship between the concentration of the centrally active component of cannabis in blood, OF, and breath is strong evidence against the use of per se laws for cannabis.”
The post Study: No Correlation Between THC Detection and Driving Impairment appeared first on NORML.
Every day that Congress fails to act needlessly jeopardizes the livelihood of these small businesses and their consumers.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Senate Must Act on Legislation Clarifying Cannabis Banking Rules for State-Licensed Businesses appeared first on NORML.
The U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals has accepted NORML's 'friend of the court' amicus brief in a case that seeks to protect the Second Amendment rights of state-authorized medical cannabis patients.
The post NORML Legal Committee Submits Amicus Brief in Federal Case Challenging Government’s Gun Ban for Medical Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include LA, ME, MD, MN, MT, NV, NH, NY, OH, PA, and RI.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/24/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Federal law enforcement agents and their partners seized nearly 5.7 million cultivated marijuana plants in 2022. This is the highest annual seizure total reported by the agency since 2011.
The post DEA Reports More Marijuana Seizures, Fewer Arrests in 2022 appeared first on NORML.
“In [this] cohort of ever-tobacco smokers of ≥20 pack-years with established COPD or at risk of developing COPD, ... a history of current and/or former smoking of marijuana of any cumulative lifetime amount was not found to be associated with a significantly deleterious impact on progression of COPD.”
The post Study: Neither Current nor Lifetime Cannabis Use Linked with COPD appeared first on NORML.
"Policies that mandate would-be hires to undergo urine screens for past cannabis exposure are invasive, discriminatory, and ineffective. They neither identify workers who may be under the influence, nor do they contribute to a safe work environment."
The post Michigan: Officials Accepting Public Comments on Plan to Halt Cannabis Pre-Employment Testing for State Workers appeared first on NORML.
Provisions in the bill permit adults to purchase (up to two ounces from state-licensed retailers and/or 8 grams of concentrate and 800 milligrams worth of edible products), home-cultivate (up to eight plants, no more than four of which can be mature), and possess cannabis (up to 2 pounds in private).
The post Minnesota: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Legalization Bill to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
After a century of failed policies and canna-bigotry, Americans are ready to move in a different direction — one that legalizes, regulates, and educates.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Ending Cannabis Bigotry Is Long Overdue appeared first on NORML.
“These data indicate that the legal, regulated cannabis market is displacing the underground marketplace,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. “Over time, consumers are becoming more comfortable with and more reliant upon licensed retailers – who offer greater convenience, product quality, and safety.”
The post Survey: Over Half of Consumers in Legal States Obtain Their Cannabis From Brick-and-Mortar Retailers appeared first on NORML.
NORML Spring '23 Intern Lucy Matthews shares her experience working with the national team in Washington, DC.
The post My Experience Interning with NORML appeared first on NORML.
“The criminalization of marijuana harmed low-income communities and communities of color in a profound way,” Gov. Moore said. “We want to make sure that the legalization of marijuana lifts those communities now in a profound way.”
The post Maryland: Governor Signs Measure Into Law Implementing Adult-Use Legalization appeared first on NORML.
“The criminalization of marijuana harmed low-income communities and communities of color in a profound way,” Gov. Moore said. “We want to make sure that the legalization of marijuana lifts those communities now in a profound way.”
The post Maryland: Governor Signs Measure Into Law Implementing Adult-Use Legalization appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AK, CA, CO, LA, ME, MN, MO, NV, NY, TX, and VT.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/3/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“It’s going to be on the ballot and it’s going to pass,” Tom Haren, a spokesperson for the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, told the Ohio Capital Journal. "Ohio consumers ... will be able to have safe, effective and regulated adult use of cannabis right here in the Buckeye State.”
The post Ohio: Advocates Look to Restart Ballot Initiative Campaign to Legalize Marijuana for Adults appeared first on NORML.
Investigators concluded, "High potency cannabis use, measured as THC concentration in cannabis and high potency cannabis preference, was not associated with increased symptoms of psychosis.”
The post Study: Higher THC Potency Not Associated with Elevated Risk of Psychosis-Like Symptoms appeared first on NORML.
"Passage of this legislation is the result of years of grassroots activism by consumers and stakeholders, including Minnesota NORML. In fact, the impetus for the formation of Minnesota NORML was based upon a police raid and resulting marijuana arrest. These sort of destructive actions are now poised to come to an end in Minnesota.”
The post Minnesota Poised to Become 23rd Legal Marijuana State appeared first on NORML.
"For almost ten years, patients and their providers have lacked the ability to locally access these medically necessary state-approved products from state-licensed retailers. Hopefully, their wait is finally over."
The post Georgia: Regulators Finally License Retailers to Begin Selling Low-THC Cannabis Products to Authorized Patients appeared first on NORML.
"For almost ten years, patients and their providers have lacked the ability to locally access these medically necessary state-approved products from state-licensed retailers. Hopefully, their wait is finally over."
The post Georgia: Regulators Finally License Retailers to Begin Selling Low-THC Cannabis Products to Authorized Patients appeared first on NORML.
“If cannabis businesses are to have any hope of operating safely, transparently, and in a manner that is competitive with the existing underground market, Congress must pass SAFE Banking now."
The post SAFE Banking Act Reintroduced in House and Senate appeared first on NORML.
"Texas leads the nation in marijuana-related arrests. Passage of this legislation will end this dubious distinction."
The post Texas: House Advances Marijuana Penalty Reduction Legislation appeared first on NORML.
NORML 2023 spring intern Christopher Handwerger answers questions about his experience.
The post What’s It Like to Intern with NORML? appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: CA, DE, ME, MN, NV, NC, TX, and VT.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/26/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"Minnesota is poised to become an island of cannabis freedom in a sea of marijuana prohibition."
The post Minnesota: House Chamber Advances Adult Use Legalization Measure appeared first on NORML.
“After years of advocacy, collaboration, and grassroots organizing, we are thrilled to see cannabis legalization become a reality in our state. This victory is a result of the tireless work of thousands of volunteers, dozens of lawmakers, and with the support of a huge majority of our Delaware community."
The post Delaware to Become the 22nd State to Legalize Adult Use Marijuana appeared first on NORML.
“After years of advocacy, collaboration, and grassroots organizing, we are thrilled to see cannabis legalization become a reality in our state. This victory is a result of the tireless work of thousands of volunteers, dozens of lawmakers, and with the support of a huge majority of our Delaware community."
The post Delaware to Become the 22nd State to Legalize Adult Use Marijuana appeared first on NORML.
“One of the greatest benchmarks of the success of legalization is the simple fact that public support for this policy change has consistently grown in the years since states began adopting it."
The post CBS News Poll: Most Americans Say Marijuana Should Be Legal, Nearly One in Three Have a Licensed Cannabis Retail Store in Their Neighborhood appeared first on NORML.
“One of the greatest benchmarks of the success of legalization is the simple fact that public support for this policy change has consistently grown in the years since states began adopting it."
The post CBS News Poll: Most Americans Say Marijuana Should Be Legal, Nearly One in Three Have a Licensed Cannabis Retail Store in Their Neighborhood appeared first on NORML.
The legislation provides a temporary five-year “safe harbor” in which veterans will not be punished for state-legal cannabis use and VA doctors will be able to officially recommend medical cannabis in accordance with state laws. The VA would also be mandated to study the potential benefits of cannabis for veterans to treat pain, PTSD, and other conditions.
The post Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act Reintroduced in Both Chambers of Congress appeared first on NORML.
The legislation provides a temporary five-year “safe harbor” in which veterans will not be punished for state-legal cannabis use and VA doctors will be able to officially recommend medical cannabis in accordance with state laws. The VA would also be mandated to study the potential benefits of cannabis for veterans to treat pain, PTSD, and other conditions.
The post Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act Reintroduced in Both Chambers of Congress appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: AK, AR, CA, CO, DE, IL, LA, ME, MA, MN, NH, NY, NV, NC, OK, VT, & WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/19/2023 appeared first on NORML.
We're giving one to everyone who donates $42 or more now through April 30, 2023!
The post Keep Cool With a NORML Koozie appeared first on NORML.
The Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement (HOPE) Act, sponsored by Reps. David Joyce (R-OH) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), allocates $20 million in federal funds over the course of ten years to provide grants to state and local governments to help expedite the process of providing relief for those with low-level marijuana convictions.
The post HOPE Act Reintroduced in Congress with Bipartisan Support appeared first on NORML.
The Small Business Tax Equity Act provides an exemption for state-licensed cannabis businesses from federal tax code 280E, which prevents anyone engaged in the trade of certain federally prohibited substances from deducting business expenses.
The post Bipartisan Bill to Normalize Federal Taxation for Legal Cannabis Businesses Introduced in House of Representatives appeared first on NORML.
"I am honored to lead this important fight for freedom."
The post Join Rick Steves in the Fight to End Marijuana Prohibition appeared first on NORML.
The Governor can either sign or veto the bills by the deadlines. If he takes no action, the bills become law absent the governor's signature.
The post Delaware: Governor Has Days to Decide the Fate of Adult-Use Legalization Bills appeared first on NORML.
“In the more than five decades of NORML’s history, few individuals have contributed more to achieving our mission than Norm. In the end, he accepted his impending death with grace and humor.”
The post NORML Remembers Norman Elliot Kent appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: AR, CA, CO, ME, MD, MO, NH, PA, SC, and TX
The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/12/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: AR, CA, CO, ME, MD, MO, NH, PA, SC, and TX
The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/12/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"Passage of this legislation will provide qualified patients with a state-sanctioned option to access a therapy that has proven to offer significant benefits."
The post Texas: House Lawmakers Advance Legislation Expanding Access to Medical Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.
"Passage of this legislation will provide qualified patients with a state-sanctioned option to access a therapy that has proven to offer significant benefits."
The post Texas: House Lawmakers Advance Legislation Expanding Access to Medical Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.
The finalized legislation permits existing medical cannabis dispensaries to apply (for a fee) for dual licensure to sell to the adult-use market beginning this July.
The post Maryland: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Legalization Implementation Bill to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
The finalized legislation permits existing medical cannabis dispensaries to apply (for a fee) for dual licensure to sell to the adult-use market beginning this July.
The post Maryland: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Legalization Implementation Bill to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
It is time for Gov. Carney to acknowledge and support the majority of Delawareans who back cannabis legalization in the First State.
The post Op-Ed: Delaware Veteran Demands Gov. Carney to Sign Cannabis Reforms into Law appeared first on NORML.
The millions of Americans who rely upon medical cannabis products ought to be afforded the same entitlements as those who use other conventional medications and therapies.
The post NORML Op-Ed: States Should Require Insurers to Pay for Medical Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) and Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), along with 15 other co-sponsors, have reintroduced the Veterans Equal Access Act, or H.R. 2431.
The post Bipartisan Effort to Improve Veterans’ Access to Medical Cannabis Introduced in Congress appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AK, ID, IL< KY, LA, MD, NV, NM, ND, VT, & WA
The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/5/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"Illicit marijuana providers don’t ask for or check for ID, but licensed businesses most certainly do.”
The post Study: Licensed Cannabis Retailers Are Strictly Complying with ID Verification Laws appeared first on NORML.
“Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Connecticut: State Prosecutors Dismiss 1,500+ Pending Marijuana Cases appeared first on NORML.
Differences in the two bills' language will likely need to be addressed in a conference committee before being advanced to the Governor’s desk.
The post Maryland: Lawmakers Advance Dueling Bills to Regulate Adult-Use Cannabis Sales appeared first on NORML.
"For years, Kentuckians have been calling for medical cannabis legalization and now they will have the freedom to safely access regulated, therapeutic products right here at home," said Matthew Bratcher, Executive Director of Kentucky NORML.
The post Kentucky Becomes the 38th State to Enact Comprehensive Medical Cannabis Access appeared first on NORML.
Members of the House and Senate have approved legislation, Senate Bill 47, regulating the production and dispensing of cannabis products to authorized patients.
The post Kentucky: Lawmakers Approve Medical Cannabis Access Legislation appeared first on NORML.
“This is a victory against discrimination toward people who use cannabis,” said the bill's sponsor, Sen. Karen Keiser. “For people using a legal substance — many of them for medical reasons — locking them out of jobs based on a pre-employment test is just plain unfair, and we are putting a stop to it.”
The post Washington: Lawmakers Advance Legislation Barring Pre-Employment Tests for Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: CA, DE, LA, MD, MA, MT, NH, NC, ND, OK, SD, & WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/29/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“The progress today is a result of years of grassroots activism. Further, it is a reflection of lawmakers evolving on this issue and being responsive to the will of the electorate, which overwhelmingly favor ending the failed policy of cannabis criminalization in The First State.”
The post Delaware: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization Bills to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
“The progress today is a result of years of grassroots activism. Further, it is a reflection of lawmakers evolving on this issue and being responsive to the will of the electorate, which overwhelmingly favor ending the failed policy of cannabis criminalization in The First State.”
The post Delaware: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization Bills to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
NORML is pleased to announce the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors.
The post NORML Welcomes New Members to Its Board of Directors appeared first on NORML.
NORML is pleased to announce the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors.
The post NORML Welcomes New Members to Its Board of Directors appeared first on NORML.
States’ real-world experience with marijuana legalization affirms that these policies can be implemented in a way that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse.
The post NORML Op-Ed: In the Era of Legal Marijuana, The Kids Are Alright appeared first on NORML.
States’ real-world experience with marijuana legalization affirms that these policies can be implemented in a way that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse.
The post NORML Op-Ed: In the Era of Legal Marijuana, The Kids Are Alright appeared first on NORML.
"Members of the DC City government continue to prioritize policies that both advance and protect the freedoms of responsible cannabis consumers. These policies include providing patients with convenient access to regulated medical cannabis products, prohibiting certain employers from discriminating against those who use cannabis while off the job, and providing legal relief to those with past, low-level marijuana convictions."
The post District of Columbia: Legislation Expanding Medical Cannabis Access Enacted Into Law appeared first on NORML.
"Members of the DC City government continue to prioritize policies that both advance and protect the freedoms of responsible cannabis consumers. These policies include providing patients with convenient access to regulated medical cannabis products, prohibiting certain employers from discriminating against those who use cannabis while off the job, and providing legal relief to those with past, low-level marijuana convictions."
The post District of Columbia: Legislation Expanding Medical Cannabis Access Enacted Into Law appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AZ, DE, IL, KS, KY, MA, MD, NH, NY, TX, VT, WA, and WV.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/22/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“For millions of patients, cannabis is a legitimate therapeutic option. More and more, lawmakers, regulators, and the courts are recognizing this fact and evolving their opinions and policies accordingly.”
The post Pennsylvania: Appellate Court Rules That Medical Cannabis Costs Should Be Reimbursed by Workers’ Compensation Insurance Plans appeared first on NORML.
“For millions of patients, cannabis is a legitimate therapeutic option. More and more, lawmakers, regulators, and the courts are recognizing this fact and evolving their opinions and policies accordingly.”
The post Pennsylvania: Appellate Court Rules That Medical Cannabis Costs Should Be Reimbursed by Workers’ Compensation Insurance Plans appeared first on NORML.
Since 2020, more than 100,000 truck drivers have tested positive for past cannabis exposure. Of this total, only about 25 percent sought to return to work — resulting in mass driver shortages.
The post NORML Op-Ed: Antiquated Marijuana Policies Are Exacerbating Supply Chain Issues appeared first on NORML.
The measure awaits approval by the House
The post Kentucky: Senate Approves Medical Cannabis Bill appeared first on NORML.
The Act provides for the automatic review and expungement of any convictions or citations specific to marijuana-related offenses that have subsequently been decriminalized or legalized in the District of Columbia. It requires all cannabis-specific expungements to be processed by the courts by January 1, 2025.
The post District of Columbia: Marijuana Expungement Bill Enacted Into Law appeared first on NORML.
The Act provides for the automatic review and expungement of any convictions or citations specific to marijuana-related offenses that have subsequently been decriminalized or legalized in the District of Columbia. It requires all cannabis-specific expungements to be processed by the courts by January 1, 2025.
The post District of Columbia: Marijuana Expungement Bill Enacted Into Law appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AL, DE, FL, IL, KS, KY, ME, MD, MO, NH, NV, NM, ND & TX.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/15/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AL, DE, FL, IL, KS, KY, ME, MD, MO, NH, NV, NM, ND & TX.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/15/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“An increasing number of Americans are choosing cannabis as a therapeutic option, and in many cases, they are substituting it in lieu of other potentially less effective and more harmful substances."
The post Analysis: Percentage of Americans Acknowledging Medical Cannabis Use Has Doubled Since 2013 appeared first on NORML.
NORML is saddened to report on the passing of Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the “Father of Cannabis Research.” He was 92 years old.
The post NORML Remembers: Dr. Raphael Mechoulam appeared first on NORML.
NORML is saddened to report on the passing of Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the “Father of Cannabis Research.” He was 92 years old.
The post NORML Remembers: Dr. Raphael Mechoulam appeared first on NORML.
“Legalizing cannabis possession, eliminating criminal penalties for all ages, and creating a regulated market are huge leaps forward for Delaware,” said Laura Sharer, Executive Director of Delaware NORML. "Provisions afforded from the Justice Reinvestment Fund will begin the process of reversing decades of discriminatory, harmful, and fundamentally unfair cannabis laws by putting equity back into our communities.”
The post Delaware: House Passes Adult-Use Cannabis Bill with Two-Thirds Supermajority appeared first on NORML.
The Justice Department has finally opened up the process for those seeking Presidential pardon certificates for past marijuana convictions. I am one of those Americans.
The post Biden’s Marijuana Pardon Certificates Are Important for All Americans, Particularly Those of Us with Federal Cannabis Convictions appeared first on NORML.
Oklahomans who engage in marijuana-related activities, but who are not registered in the state’s medical program will continue to face some of the strictest penalties in the nation.
The post Oklahomans Reject Adult-Use Legalization Ballot Measure appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: AK, AZ, CA, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, KY, ME, MD, NH, NM, NY, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/8/2023 appeared first on NORML.
NORML only exists and succeeds because of the support of passionate and dedicated individuals like you. With you standing shoulder to shoulder with us, we will continue to take our fight to city councils, state legislatures, and to Congress. Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we WILL legalize marijuana nationwide
The post A Bright Future for Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.
Altieri assumed the leadership role in November 2016, directing NORML during one of the more successful periods in the marijuana law reform movement’s history.
The post NORML Executive Director Erik Altieri Stepping Down from Leadership Position appeared first on NORML.
NORML has criticized the Administration for its failure to provide pardon certificates in an expedited manner, stating: “Many of those eligible for forgiveness have suffered numerous lost opportunities over the years. ... They should not have to continue to wait for relief any longer.”
The post Justice Department Provides Update Regarding the Issuance of Presidential Pardon Certificates appeared first on NORML.
Delaware deserves to go green in 2023. We deserve regulated cannabis.
The post Op-Ed: Cannabis Legalization Is Overdue in Delaware appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: GA, IL, ME, MD, MN, MT, NY, ND, SC,SD, TN, TX and WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/1/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Highlights in: GA, IL, ME, MD, MN, MT, NY, ND, SC,SD, TN, TX and WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/1/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Those previously convicted of possessing one ounce or less of cannabis are eligible for record sealing. It is estimated that some 800 Alaskans will receive relief under the order, which takes effect May 1, 2023.
The post Alaska: Supreme Court Orders Prior Cannabis Convictions to Be Sealed From Public View appeared first on NORML.
"Historically, when voters are provided the choice at the ballot box, they choose legalization and regulation. This has been the outcome not only in traditionally 'blue' states like California and Oregon, but also in traditionally 'red' states like Montana and Missouri."
The post Oklahoma: Voters Days Away from Deciding Adult-Use Marijuana Legalization Measure appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: CA, CO, GA, HI, IL, MD, MN, MO, NC, ND, NH, NM, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, UT, VT, and WA.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/22/2023 appeared first on NORML.
NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said, “These latest findings add to the growing body of scientific literature showing that legalization policies can be implemented in a manner that provides access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse."
The post CDC Report: Rates of Current Marijuana Use Among Teens Has Steadily Declined Over Past Decade appeared first on NORML.
Recently conducted observational trials in Israel and the United Kingdom have documented improved symptoms following the use of cannabis products among patients with post-traumatic stress. These outcomes include statistically significant changes in sleep quality and in anxiety, fewer nightmares, and improved quality of life.
The post US Senate Committee Advances Bill Facilitating Cannabis Research Among Veterans appeared first on NORML.
Recently conducted observational trials in Israel and the United Kingdom have documented improved symptoms following the use of cannabis products among patients with post-traumatic stress. These outcomes include statistically significant changes in sleep quality and in anxiety, fewer nightmares, and improved quality of life.
The post US Senate Committee Advances Bill Facilitating Cannabis Research Among Veterans appeared first on NORML.
“This vote is another huge disappointment for Virginians, the majority of whom favor swift access to retail sales,” added Pedini. “Legislation providing regulatory oversight is the best way for the Commonwealth to protect cannabis consumers. By failing to take legislative action, lawmakers are electing to continue driving consumers to the unregulated, underground market.”
The post Virginia: Republican-Led Subcommittee Again Rejects Marijuana Sales Legislation in Party-Line Vote appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: AZ, CO, GA, KS, ME, MD, NH, NM, RI, TX, VT, VA, and WV
The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/14/2023 appeared first on NORML.
Many of those eligible for forgiveness have suffered numerous lost opportunities over the years because of a lingering conviction for behavior that most Americans no longer believe should be a crime. They should not have to continue to wait for relief any longer.
The post NORML Op-ed: President Biden: What Happened to Those Marijuana Pardons You Promised? appeared first on NORML.
Many of those eligible for forgiveness have suffered numerous lost opportunities over the years because of a lingering conviction for behavior that most Americans no longer believe should be a crime. They should not have to continue to wait for relief any longer.
The post NORML Op-ed: President Biden: What Happened to Those Marijuana Pardons You Promised? appeared first on NORML.
Voters in several Texas cities – including Austin, Denton, Elgin, Harker Heights, Killeen, and San Marcos – have approved similar ballot measures.
The post Texas: San Antonio Voters to Decide on Marijuana Depenalization Ordinance appeared first on NORML.
Highlights include: DE, GA, HI, IA, MD, MN, MO, NB, NH, NY, NC, ND, OH, SD, TN, WA, and WV.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/7/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"[T]he mere use of marijuana carries none of the characteristics that the Nation’s history and tradition of firearms regulation supports," the Court determined. "The mere use of marijuana does not indicate that someone is in fact dangerous" or has a "proclivity for violence."
The post Federal Court Rules Gun Ban for Marijuana Consumers Is Unconstitutional appeared first on NORML.
"The option to grow for oneself is a fundamental right which has been part of legalization in the great majority of the 20 other states which have now taken the historic step of repealing the criminal prohibition of responsible adult marijuana use."
The post Missouri: Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Begin, Regulators Accepting Home-Cultivation Applications appeared first on NORML.
I chose to work for NORML this spring because I believe that the destigmatization and legalization of cannabis is crucial to creating a more just, equitable, knowledgeable, and free society.
The post Why I’m Fighting for Cannabis Freedom appeared first on NORML.
State Question 820 permits adults to legally possess and home-cultivate personal use qualities of cannabis while also establishing a licensed, retail marketplace.
The post Oklahoma: Voters Still Have Time to Register Ahead of March Legalization Vote appeared first on NORML.
NORML Development Director JM Pedini, said that Tuesday’s vote represented "another stunning failure of leadership on cannabis policy.”
The post Virginia: House Republicans Reject Retail Cannabis Sales Plan appeared first on NORML.
City lawmakers have provided final approval to a pair of bills that seek to significantly reform marijuana laws in the District of Columbia. But both bills still must undergo a 30-day Congressional review prior to becoming law.
The post District of Columbia: Bills Transmitted to Congress Providing for Marijuana Expungements, Expanded Medical Access appeared first on NORML.
“These findings contribute robust evidence for clinicians regarding the potential benefits of medical cannabis in reducing the opioid burden for patients receiving long-term opioid therapy and possibly reduc[ing] their risk for overdose.”
The post Study: Cannabis Use Reduces Daily Use of Prescription Opioids in Chronic Pain Patients appeared first on NORML.
If public safety is an actual priority for either chamber, then they will approve legislation to begin sales at licensed dispensaries as soon as possible.”.
The post Poll: Virginia Voters Support Legalizing Adult-use Cannabis Retail Sales appeared first on NORML.
“Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Rhode Island: Courts Begin the Process of Erasing Marijuana Records appeared first on NORML.
“Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Rhode Island: Courts Begin the Process of Erasing Marijuana Records appeared first on NORML.
“The Transportation Department’s reliance on this outdated technology and upon these discriminatory policies is out of step with reality and is directly contributing to the trucking shortage crisis.”
The post Tens of Thousands of Commercial Truckers Leaving the Workforce Over Outdated Marijuana Testing Requirements appeared first on NORML.
"Assisting and working toward legalization nationally will allow me not only to learn about the failed federal experiment with cannabis, but also inform me on ways to better educate constituents on how they can take action to change these policies in their own communities."
The post I’m Interning with NORML to Join the Fight Against a Failed Policy appeared first on NORML.
“This study is the ... largest ... to quantify the association of medical and recreational cannabis policies with rates of psychosis-related health care claims across US states. … [W]e did not observe a statistically significant association of state cannabis policy level with overall rates of psychosis-related diagnoses or prescribed antipsychotics."
The post Study: Marijuana Legalization Not Associated with Elevated Rates of Psychosis-Related Health Outcomes appeared first on NORML.
It's time for the Department of Justice to deliver the pardon certificates that President Biden promised last fall.
The post Presidential Pardons for Federal Cannabis Possession Convictions Still Unavailable appeared first on NORML.
Lawmakers in many states have started pre-filing marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 1/24/2023 appeared first on NORML.
“Marijuana access has been long overdue for Mississippi’s patients,” NORML’s State Policies Manager Jax James said. “The overwhelming majority of voters decided in favor of this policy change over two years ago, and lawmakers had an obligation to ensure that the process of providing access faced no further undue delays.”
The post Mississippi: Medical Cannabis Sales to Begin This Week appeared first on NORML.
Missouri NORML is very proud and pleased to announce that more than 3.500 Missourians have had their marijuana cases expunged from all public records only a few weeks after Article XIV/“Amendment 3” became effective on December 8.
The post Missouri: 3,500+ Marijuana Records Expunged appeared first on NORML.
"As a cannabis consumer, marijuana has changed my life for the better. ... There is nothing that I want to do more than be part of an organization that supports initiatives that advocate on behalf of freedoms for cannabis consumers."
The post Why I’m Choosing to Intern at NORML appeared first on NORML.
The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) was saddened to receive news of the passing of David Crosby, who joined NORML's Advisory Board in 2018.
The post NORML Remembers David Crosby appeared first on NORML.
The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) was saddened to receive news of the passing of David Crosby, who joined NORML's Advisory Board in 2018.
The post NORML Remembers David Crosby appeared first on NORML.
"Today, with the hard work of the members of the 34th Legislature and prior Legislatures and the efforts of my team, we are finally here and finally signing into law the Virgin Islands Cannabis Use Act."
The post Virgin Islands: Governor Signs Legislation Legalizing Cannabis Use, Expunging Past Convictions appeared first on NORML.
"Today, with the hard work of the members of the 34th Legislature and prior Legislatures and the efforts of my team, we are finally here and finally signing into law the Virgin Islands Cannabis Use Act."
The post Virgin Islands: Governor Signs Legislation Legalizing Cannabis Use, Expunging Past Convictions appeared first on NORML.
Lawmakers in many states have started to pre-file marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Alaska, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
The post State Policy Weekly Update 1/17/2023 appeared first on NORML.
"Marijuana law reform brings together important conversations over decarceration, racial equity, public health, and informed consumption. As long as NORML remains a leader of this public discussion, I intend to stay involved."
The post Why I Chose to Intern at NORML appeared first on NORML.
“These products are unregulated and untested, readily available on the internet and unlicensed sources, and pose significant threat to public health and safety.”
The post New Study Raises Concerns Over Inhalation of THC-O appeared first on NORML.
Lawmakers in many states have started to pre-file marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Washington.
The post State Policy Weekly Update (1/10/23) appeared first on NORML.
“A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said.
The post Connecticut: Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Begin This Week appeared first on NORML.
“Cannabis has established efficacy in the treatment of multiple conditions, including chronic pain, and it possesses a safety profile that is either comparable or superior to other controlled substances. So it is no wonder that those with legal access to it are substituting cannabis in lieu of other, potentially less effective and more harmful substances."
The post Study: Chronic Pain Patients Frequently Report Using Cannabis In Place of Opioids appeared first on NORML.
"Because the use of marijuana under AMMA ‘must be considered the equivalent of the use of any other medication under the direction of a physician,’ the exposure of [the plaintiff’s] infant to marijuana resulted from medical treatment and did not constitute neglect under A.R.S. § 8–201(25)(c).”
The post Arizona Supreme Court: Maternal Use of Cannabis for Morning Sickness Doesn’t Constitute Child Neglect appeared first on NORML.
During his State of the Commonwealth Address delivered Wednesday evening, Democratic Governor Andy Beshear called for the legalization of medical cannabis in Kentucky
The post Kentucky: Governor Beshear Calls for Legalization of Medical Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
“The adoption of this law will make it so that tens of thousands of Ohioans are no longer stigmatized and disenfranchised by the collateral consequences resulting from a minor marijuana violation,” said Jax James, NORML’s State Policy Manager.
The post Ohio: Governor Signs Sentencing Reform Legislation Into Law appeared first on NORML.
“The adoption of this law will make it so that tens of thousands of Ohioans are no longer stigmatized and disenfranchised by the collateral consequences resulting from a minor marijuana violation,” said Jax James, NORML’s State Policy Manager.
The post Ohio: Governor Signs Sentencing Reform Legislation Into Law appeared first on NORML.
Oklahoma voters will decide on a citizens’ initiated measure (State Question 820) legalizing the adult-use marijuana market in a special election to be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.
The post Will Oklahoma Be the Next State to Legalize Marijuana? appeared first on NORML.
Oklahoma voters will decide on a citizens’ initiated measure (State Question 820) legalizing the adult-use marijuana market in a special election to be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.
The post Will Oklahoma Be the Next State to Legalize Marijuana? appeared first on NORML.
“Once implemented, … the Territory will see an industry that is inclusive and diverse, and most importantly, safe,” said the bill’s sponsor. “It is my hope that the current administration implements [the law] to its full potential, for the benefit of the people of this Territory."
The post Virgin Islands: Lawmakers Advance Legislation Legalizing Cannabis Use, Expunging Past Convictions appeared first on NORML.
“Once implemented, … the Territory will see an industry that is inclusive and diverse, and most importantly, safe,” said the bill’s sponsor. “It is my hope that the current administration implements [the law] to its full potential, for the benefit of the people of this Territory."
The post Virgin Islands: Lawmakers Advance Legislation Legalizing Cannabis Use, Expunging Past Convictions appeared first on NORML.
“Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. “Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Connecticut: Officials Expunge 40,000+ Marijuana-Related Convictions appeared first on NORML.
“Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. “Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Connecticut: Officials Expunge 40,000+ Marijuana-Related Convictions appeared first on NORML.
Under the new law, adults who possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis (and/or up to 12 grams of cannabis concentrates and/or any cannabis product containing up to 750 mgs of THC) are subject to a civil violation, punishable by no more than a $100 fine. Adults will be legally permitted to possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis and/or 12 grams of cannabis concentrates with no penalty beginning in July 2023.
The post Maryland: Civil Penalties Take Effect for Cannabis Possession appeared first on NORML.
Kentucky NORML sponsors exhibit at Capitol in support of medical cannabis legalization
The post Kentucky NORML Meets with Governor Beshear on Medical Cannabis appeared first on NORML.
As a patient and consumer focused advocacy organization, NORML prioritizes efforts in favor of state-level legislation that seeks to achieve the following goals. We are also keeping an eye on the following states for 2023 advancement.
The post Looking Ahead to 2023: NORML’s State-Level Legislative Goals and Expectations appeared first on NORML.
“It is time for politicians and others to stop assessing cannabis through the lens of ‘what we don’t know’ and instead start engaging in evidence-based discussions about marijuana and marijuana reform policies that are indicative of all that we do know.”
The post Record Number of Scientific Papers Published About Cannabis in 2022 appeared first on NORML.
Prior to 2015, the District had one of the nation's highest per capita arrest rates for marijuana-related offenses -- averaging one arrest every two hours.
The post District of Columbia: Council Members Advance Legislation to Expunge Tens of Thousands of Marijuana Convictions appeared first on NORML.
What we do now will determine how successful we are next year.
The post The Battle for Legalization in 2023 Starts NOW appeared first on NORML.
What we do now will determine how successful we are next year.
The post The Battle for Legalization in 2023 Starts NOW appeared first on NORML.
What we do now will determine how successful we are next year.
The post The Battle for Legalization in 2023 Starts NOW appeared first on NORML.
"Democrats' failure and the GOP's continued resistance to any progress is out of step with voters’ opinion, is bad politics, and most importantly, it is bad public policy."
The post No Further Movement Expected on SAFE Banking, Other Marijuana Reforms in 117th Congress appeared first on NORML.
Monitoring the Future has released their 2022 findings regarding cannabis use rates for 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students. The study found that rates for each cohort were largely unchanged from last year.
The post Federally Funded Study Finds Teen Use Rates Largely Unchanged by Legalization appeared first on NORML.
Provisions in the bill provide pathways so that those with misdemeanor marijuana convictions (and/or those convicted of most misdemeanors and fourth- or fifth-degree felonies) can petition the courts to have their records sealed.
The post Ohio: Lawmakers Advance Sentencing Reform Bill to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
Provisions in the bill provide pathways so that those with misdemeanor marijuana convictions (and/or those convicted of most misdemeanors and fourth- or fifth-degree felonies) can petition the courts to have their records sealed.
The post Ohio: Lawmakers Advance Sentencing Reform Bill to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
City officials report that there are no longer any open cases specific to marijuana possession pending before the Municipal Court.
The post Kansas City: Officials Dismiss Hundreds of Marijuana Cases Following Statewide Legalization Vote appeared first on NORML.
City officials report that there are no longer any open cases specific to marijuana possession pending before the Municipal Court.
The post Kansas City: Officials Dismiss Hundreds of Marijuana Cases Following Statewide Legalization Vote appeared first on NORML.
“Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. “Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post NORML Report Highlights State Efforts Providing Expungement Relief to Millions with Low-Level Cannabis Convictions appeared first on NORML.
The District of Columbia’s city council has recently approved the Medical Cannabis Amendment Act, significantly expanding medical cannabis operations in DC.
The post District of Columbia: Council Members Advance Legislation Further Expanding Medical Cannabis Access appeared first on NORML.
“Voters and lawmakers took significant steps this year to repeal marijuana prohibition laws and to provide relief to those tens millions of Americans who have suffered as a result of them,” NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said.
The post NORML Issues Report Highlighting 2022 State Legislative Victories appeared first on NORML.
“A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices."
The post Connecticut: Adult-Use Cannabis Sales to Begin Next Month appeared first on NORML.
“Especially as Connecticut employers seek to fill hundreds of thousands of job openings, an old conviction for low-level cannabis possession should not hold someone back from pursuing their career, housing, professional, and educational aspirations.”
The post Connecticut: Governor Announces Intent to Expunge 40,000+ Marijuana-Related Convictions appeared first on NORML.
Today, even in jurisdictions where cannabis remains criminalized under state law, tens of millions of Americans reside in cities and counties where local laws either depenalizing or decriminalizing cannabis-related activities are in effect.
The post NORML Report Highlights Citywide Policies Depenalizing Marijuana Law Enforcement appeared first on NORML.
"December 8th is a historic date for Missourians," said Dan Viets, co-author of Amendment 3, Missouri NORML Coordinator, and Chair of the Amendment 3 Advisory Board. "Most of the 20,000 annual marijuana arrests in our state will end on that date. Instead, adults will be able to legally possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis, and soon will also have the option to grow up to 18 plants or purchase cannabis products tested for purity and potency from licensed retailers."
The post Missouri: Legalization Takes Effect on 12/8 appeared first on NORML.
“Voters are consistent in their support for these common-sense federal reforms. Majorities of Democrats, Independents, and Republicans back these changes and federal lawmakers should work in a bipartisan manner to achieve them.”
The post Poll: Nearly Three in Four Likely Voters Support “Ending the Federal Ban” on Marijuana, Other Federal Reforms appeared first on NORML.
Giving Tuesday is the largest global giving day of the year and NORML is excited to be a part of this worldwide event!
The post On Giving Tuesday, Pledge to Legalize It appeared first on NORML.
Our successes are only possible because of your support in our fight for cannabis freedom.
The post We’re Thankful for You in 2022 appeared first on NORML.
"We are proud to launch adult use sales in Rhode Island just six months after the Cannabis Act was signed into law, marking the Northeast’s fastest implementation period,” said Matt Santacroce, interim deputy director of the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.
The post Rhode Island: Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Begin Next Week appeared first on NORML.
“Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.”
The post Oregon: Governor Announces Mass Pardons for Those with Low-Level Cannabis Convictions appeared first on NORML.
“The inclusion of applicants that have been negatively impacted by cannabis prohibition is an important step toward providing restorative justice, "says Jax James, NORML’s State Policy Manager.
The post New York: Regulators Award Marijuana Licenses to Justice-Involved and Non-Profit Applicants appeared first on NORML.
“While the significance of Congress passing the first stand-alone cannabis policy reform bill should not be overlooked, in truth, we don’t need more research to know definitively that prohibition is a misguided and disastrous policy."
The post Congress Advances Legislation to the President Amending Clinical Cannabis Research Rules appeared first on NORML.
“An overwhelming majority of Americans have consistently opposed our failed prohibition of marijuana for years now, and it defies common sense that our elected officials at the federal level have yet to take any meaningful action."
The post Gallup: Nationwide Support for Marijuana Legalization Still at Historic High appeared first on NORML.
“Kentuckians suffering from chronic and terminal conditions are going to be able to get the treatment they need without living in fear of a misdemeanor,” Gov. Beshear said in a prepared statement. “With 37 states already legalizing medical cannabis and 90% of Kentucky adults supporting it, I am doing what I can to provide access and relief to those who meet certain conditions and need it to better enjoy their life, without pain.”
The post Kentucky: Governor Issues Executive Order Providing Pardon Protections to Qualifying Medical Cannabis Patients appeared first on NORML.
The House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties held a hearing entitled “Developments in State Cannabis Laws and Bipartisan Cannabis Reforms at the Federal Level.”
The post NORML Deputy Director Testifies on Marijuana Legalization Before House Subcommittee appeared first on NORML.
"Are we in a stronger place today than we were yesterday? Of course we are."
The post Legalization Momentum Continues Following Several Election Night Victories appeared first on NORML.
"Are we in a stronger place today than we were yesterday? Of course we are."
The post Legalization Momentum Continues Following Several Election Night Victories appeared first on NORML.
"Are we in a stronger place today than we were yesterday? Of course we are."
The post Legalization Momentum Continues Following Several Election Night Victories appeared first on NORML.
"This means that the great majority of the 20,000 people who have been arrested year after year in Missouri will no longer be subject to criminal prosecution for victimless marijuana law violations."
The post Missouri Becomes 21st State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
"This means that the great majority of the 20,000 people who have been arrested year after year in Missouri will no longer be subject to criminal prosecution for victimless marijuana law violations."
The post Missouri Becomes 21st State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
"This means that the great majority of the 20,000 people who have been arrested year after year in Missouri will no longer be subject to criminal prosecution for victimless marijuana law violations."
The post Missouri Becomes 21st State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
"Texans have shown that they want major cannabis law reforms in Texas via polling, legislative engagement, and now at the local ballot box! "
The post Texas Cities Move to Depenalize Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.
"Texans have shown that they want major cannabis law reforms in Texas via polling, legislative engagement, and now at the local ballot box! "
The post Texas Cities Move to Depenalize Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.
"Texans have shown that they want major cannabis law reforms in Texas via polling, legislative engagement, and now at the local ballot box! "
The post Texas Cities Move to Depenalize Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.
Maryland is the 20th state to legalize marijuana for adult use, and it is the second to do so via the passage of a popular referendum.
The post Maryland Becomes 20th State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
Maryland is the 20th state to legalize marijuana for adult use, and it is the second to do so via the passage of a popular referendum.
The post Maryland Becomes 20th State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
Maryland is the 20th state to legalize marijuana for adult use, and it is the second to do so via the passage of a popular referendum.
The post Maryland Becomes 20th State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.
NORML staff will be bringing you the latest results and analysis LIVE all night! Tune in as we #SmokeTheVote.
The post NORML Election Night LIVE 2022 appeared first on NORML.
NORML staff will be bringing you the latest results and analysis LIVE all night! Tune in as we #SmokeTheVote.
The post NORML Election Night LIVE 2022 appeared first on NORML.
NORML staff will be bringing you the latest results and analysis LIVE all night! Tune in as we #SmokeTheVote.
The post NORML Election Night LIVE 2022 appeared first on NORML.
Nineteen other states have smartly legalized the responsible use of marijuana for adults. Now it’s time to bring cannabis freedom to Missouri, Maryland, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Arkansas
The post Rick Steves: We Need to Win for Cannabis and Civil Liberties appeared first on NORML.
Nineteen other states have smartly legalized the responsible use of marijuana for adults. Now it’s time to bring cannabis freedom to Missouri, Maryland, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Arkansas
The post Rick Steves: We Need to Win for Cannabis and Civil Liberties appeared first on NORML.
Nineteen other states have smartly legalized the responsible use of marijuana for adults. Now it’s time to bring cannabis freedom to Missouri, Maryland, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Arkansas
The post Rick Steves: We Need to Win for Cannabis and Civil Liberties appeared first on NORML.
Over 22,000 DC residents are legally authorized to access medical cannabis.
The post District of Columbia: Mayor Signs Legislation Raising Marijuana Possession Limits for Patients, Providing Access to Non-Residents appeared first on NORML.
Over 22,000 DC residents are legally authorized to access medical cannabis.
The post District of Columbia: Mayor Signs Legislation Raising Marijuana Possession Limits for Patients, Providing Access to Non-Residents appeared first on NORML.
Over 22,000 DC residents are legally authorized to access medical cannabis.
The post District of Columbia: Mayor Signs Legislation Raising Marijuana Possession Limits for Patients, Providing Access to Non-Residents appeared first on NORML.
“Legalizing and regulating cannabis provides for more job opportunities, greater tax revenues, and safe access to high quality products at increasingly affordable prices,” NORML’s State Policy Manager Jax James said. “This economic data shows once again why legalization is a preferable policy option over criminal prohibition."
The post Report: Legal Cannabis Once Again Ranks Among Nation’s Most Valuable Crops appeared first on NORML.
“Legalizing and regulating cannabis provides for more job opportunities, greater tax revenues, and safe access to high quality products at increasingly affordable prices,” NORML’s State Policy Manager Jax James said. “This economic data shows once again why legalization is a preferable policy option over criminal prohibition."
The post Report: Legal Cannabis Once Again Ranks Among Nation’s Most Valuable Crops appeared first on NORML.
“Legalizing and regulating cannabis provides for more job opportunities, greater tax revenues, and safe access to high quality products at increasingly affordable prices,” NORML’s State Policy Manager Jax James said. “This economic data shows once again why legalization is a preferable policy option over criminal prohibition."
The post Report: Legal Cannabis Once Again Ranks Among Nation’s Most Valuable Crops appeared first on NORML.
“Between local and state efforts, these initiatives will affect over 18 million Americans.”
The post Millions of Americans to Cast Votes for Marijuana Legalization on Election Day appeared first on NORML.
“Between local and state efforts, these initiatives will affect over 18 million Americans.”
The post Millions of Americans to Cast Votes for Marijuana Legalization on Election Day appeared first on NORML.
“Between local and state efforts, these initiatives will affect over 18 million Americans.”
The post Millions of Americans to Cast Votes for Marijuana Legalization on Election Day appeared first on NORML.
This election may be the most critical one yet in our fight to end marijuana prohibition.
The post Urgent Action Needed for Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.
This election may be the most critical one yet in our fight to end marijuana prohibition.
The post Urgent Action Needed for Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.
This election may be the most critical one yet in our fight to end marijuana prohibition.
The post Urgent Action Needed for Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.
“A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices.”
The post Vermont: Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Begin Later This Week appeared first on NORML.
“A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices.”
The post Vermont: Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Begin Later This Week appeared first on NORML.
“A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices.”
The post Vermont: Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Begin Later This Week appeared first on NORML.
“Voters’ views on the subject of legalizing and regulating cannabis have evolved significantly over the past decades; however, the views of those seeking to represent them in Congress have not kept pace with this seismic shift in public opinion. Candidates’ failure to advocate for marijuana policy reform is a missed opportunity, as this is a unique issue that unites voters irrespective of party affiliation.”
The post Analysis: Many Congressional Candidates Electing to Stay Silent on Cannabis Policy appeared first on NORML.
“Voters’ views on the subject of legalizing and regulating cannabis have evolved significantly over the past decades; however, the views of those seeking to represent them in Congress have not kept pace with this seismic shift in public opinion. Candidates’ failure to advocate for marijuana policy reform is a missed opportunity, as this is a unique issue that unites voters irrespective of party affiliation.”
The post Analysis: Many Congressional Candidates Electing to Stay Silent on Cannabis Policy appeared first on NORML.
“Voters’ views on the subject of legalizing and regulating cannabis have evolved significantly over the past decades; however, the views of those seeking to represent them in Congress have not kept pace with this seismic shift in public opinion. Candidates’ failure to advocate for marijuana policy reform is a missed opportunity, as this is a unique issue that unites voters irrespective of party affiliation.”
The post Analysis: Many Congressional Candidates Electing to Stay Silent on Cannabis Policy appeared first on NORML.
If voters approve these measures, approximately half of all US residents will reside in a jurisdiction where the possession and use of cannabis are legal for adults.
The post Voters in Five States, Dozens of Cities to Decide on Marijuana Legalization Measures This November appeared first on NORML.
If voters approve these measures, approximately half of all US residents will reside in a jurisdiction where the possession and use of cannabis are legal for adults.
The post Voters in Five States, Dozens of Cities to Decide on Marijuana Legalization Measures This November appeared first on NORML.
If voters approve these measures, approximately half of all US residents will reside in a jurisdiction where the possession and use of cannabis are legal for adults.
The post Voters in Five States, Dozens of Cities to Decide on Marijuana Legalization Measures This November appeared first on NORML.
The report estimates, “States with roughly 20 to 40 legal regulated stores per 100,000 residents, in general, have captured 80 percent to 90 percent of all cannabis sales in the legal market.”
The post Analysis: Local Bans on Cannabis Retailers Drive Illicit Markets appeared first on NORML.
The report estimates, “States with roughly 20 to 40 legal regulated stores per 100,000 residents, in general, have captured 80 percent to 90 percent of all cannabis sales in the legal market.”
The post Analysis: Local Bans on Cannabis Retailers Drive Illicit Markets appeared first on NORML.
The report estimates, “States with roughly 20 to 40 legal regulated stores per 100,000 residents, in general, have captured 80 percent to 90 percent of all cannabis sales in the legal market.”
The post Analysis: Local Bans on Cannabis Retailers Drive Illicit Markets appeared first on NORML.
The Arkansas Supreme Court issued a decision today ensuring that a statewide measure seeking to legalize the adult-use marijuana market in Arkansas, will appear on the November ballot.
The post Arkansas: High Court Approves Marijuana Legalization Measure for the November Ballot appeared first on NORML.
The Arkansas Supreme Court issued a decision today ensuring that a statewide measure seeking to legalize the adult-use marijuana market in Arkansas, will appear on the November ballot.
The post Arkansas: High Court Approves Marijuana Legalization Measure for the November Ballot appeared first on NORML.
The Arkansas Supreme Court issued a decision today ensuring that a statewide measure seeking to legalize the adult-use marijuana market in Arkansas, will appear on the November ballot.
The post Arkansas: High Court Approves Marijuana Legalization Measure for the November Ballot appeared first on NORML.
"In a healthy democracy, those with competing visions on public policy vie for voters’ support and abide by their voting decisions. However, it is becoming clear that those who oppose marijuana policy reform would rather take voters out of the equation altogether. Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these cynical and undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern."
The post Oklahoma: Court Rules that Voters Can’t Decide on Legalization Ballot Measure This Year appeared first on NORML.
"In a healthy democracy, those with competing visions on public policy vie for voters’ support and abide by their voting decisions. However, it is becoming clear that those who oppose marijuana policy reform would rather take voters out of the equation altogether. Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these cynical and undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern."
The post Oklahoma: Court Rules that Voters Can’t Decide on Legalization Ballot Measure This Year appeared first on NORML.
"In a healthy democracy, those with competing visions on public policy vie for voters’ support and abide by their voting decisions. However, it is becoming clear that those who oppose marijuana policy reform would rather take voters out of the equation altogether. Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these cynical and undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern."
The post Oklahoma: Court Rules that Voters Can’t Decide on Legalization Ballot Measure This Year appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when most Americans want to end marijuana prohibition and nearly a majority of people now reside states where cannabis is legal, it makes no sense to continue punishing adults and robbing them of the opportunity to fulfill their potential for behavior that in many cases is no longer a crime."
The post House Judiciary Committee Approves Measures to Help Seal and Expunge Marijuana Arrests appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when most Americans want to end marijuana prohibition and nearly a majority of people now reside states where cannabis is legal, it makes no sense to continue punishing adults and robbing them of the opportunity to fulfill their potential for behavior that in many cases is no longer a crime."
The post House Judiciary Committee Approves Measures to Help Seal and Expunge Marijuana Arrests appeared first on NORML.
"At a time when most Americans want to end marijuana prohibition and nearly a majority of people now reside states where cannabis is legal, it makes no sense to continue punishing adults and robbing them of the opportunity to fulfill their potential for behavior that in many cases is no longer a crime."
The post House Judiciary Committee Approves Measures to Help Seal and Expunge Marijuana Arrests appeared first on NORML.
"Voters' support for repealing cannabis criminalization crosses party lines," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "That is why, historically, these ballot initiative efforts have been equally successful at the ballot box in both 'red' states and in 'blue' states. We anticipate similar outcomes this November."
The post Recent Polls Show Support for 2022 Legalization Initiatives appeared first on NORML.
"Voters' support for repealing cannabis criminalization crosses party lines," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "That is why, historically, these ballot initiative efforts have been equally successful at the ballot box in both 'red' states and in 'blue' states. We anticipate similar outcomes this November."
The post Recent Polls Show Support for 2022 Legalization Initiatives appeared first on NORML.
"Voters' support for repealing cannabis criminalization crosses party lines," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "That is why, historically, these ballot initiative efforts have been equally successful at the ballot box in both 'red' states and in 'blue' states. We anticipate similar outcomes this November."
The post Recent Polls Show Support for 2022 Legalization Initiatives appeared first on NORML.
A generous angel donor is matching all donations made to NORML this week!
The post Double Your Impact This Week appeared first on NORML.
A generous angel donor is matching all donations made to NORML this week!
The post Double Your Impact This Week appeared first on NORML.
A generous angel donor is matching all donations made to NORML this week!
The post Double Your Impact This Week appeared first on NORML.
“Urine tests are a highly offensive invasion of workers’ personal bodily privacy,” said Dale Gieringer, the Director of California NORML -- which had lobbied for several years in favor of the bill. “They are too frequently abused to discriminate against unpopular workers and minorities. Workers should have the same right to use cannabis as to use other legal substances off the job.”
The post California: Governor Signs Legislation Providing Employment Protections for Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
“Urine tests are a highly offensive invasion of workers’ personal bodily privacy,” said Dale Gieringer, the Director of California NORML -- which had lobbied for several years in favor of the bill. “They are too frequently abused to discriminate against unpopular workers and minorities. Workers should have the same right to use cannabis as to use other legal substances off the job.”
The post California: Governor Signs Legislation Providing Employment Protections for Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
“Urine tests are a highly offensive invasion of workers’ personal bodily privacy,” said Dale Gieringer, the Director of California NORML -- which had lobbied for several years in favor of the bill. “They are too frequently abused to discriminate against unpopular workers and minorities. Workers should have the same right to use cannabis as to use other legal substances off the job.”
The post California: Governor Signs Legislation Providing Employment Protections for Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.
“I have repeatedly called on our Republican-led General Assembly to support the legalization of adult-use marijuana, but they’ve yet to meet this call for action from myself and Pennsylvanians. Until they do, I am committed to doing everything in my power to support Pennsylvanians who have been adversely affected by a minor marijuana offense on their record.”
The post Pennsylvania: Governor Launches Effort to Issue Mass Pardons to Those with Low-Level Marijuana Convictions appeared first on NORML.
NORML's Interns for the Summer '22 semester share thoughts regarding their time working with the NORML staff.
The post Summer 2022 NORML Interns Answer Questions About the Job appeared first on NORML.
"These arbitrary and unnecessary limits were established without input from either the patient community or from those physicians who specialize in providing oversight to medical cannabis patients. They will likely result in creating unnecessary confusion and they will place an undue burden upon patients and their doctors."
The post Florida: Health Officials Enact Emergency Rules Imposing Cannabis Dosing Limits for Qualified Patients appeared first on NORML.
State lawmakers have advanced several priority bills to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk and a few more remain pending but are up against a tight timeline. The legislative session in California ends on August 31st. Any bills not transmitted to the Governor will die after that date. (Once advanced to the Governor, he has 30 days to act on the bills.)
The post California: Multiple Reform Bills Advance to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.
Before a single ballot has been cast in the 2022 midterm elections on a single marijuana ballot measure, prohibitionists funded by dark money special interests are doing everything they can in an attempt to crush legalization attempts in several states before voters ever get a say.
The post Raising the Alarm: Legalization Efforts Under Attack appeared first on NORML.
Advocates expressed hope that lawmakers may take up the issue in 2023 now that about a half million Nebraskans have signed petitions over the past few years in favor of it. “I hope the elected officials are paying attention. They have the power to do something.”
The post Nebraska: Advocates Fail to Secure Ballot Access for Medical Marijuana Legalization Measures appeared first on NORML.
Regulators and other concerned parties should seek to provide the public with more comprehensive safety information about the effects of more potent products, and they should continue to ensure that legal products do not get diverted to the youth market. Such actions will ultimately be far more productive than calling for a return to the failures of marijuana prohibition.
The post NORML Op-ed: Concerns Over High Potency THC Products Warrant Greater Education, Not Criminalization appeared first on NORML.
Voters in several states and in dozens of cities and towns will decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is an update of where these efforts currently stand in Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma, as well as cities in Colorado, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas.
The post Marijuana-Related Ballot Initiatives and Referenda: 8/19/2022 Update appeared first on NORML.
"Regardless of intent, it is clear that the continued criminalization of cannabis perpetuates and exacerbates unequal enforcement under the law and the associated harms that come with it. This is not something that we can tolerate in the 21st century, and these findings should incentivize lawmakers to embrace sensible cannabis policy reforms.”
The post Analysis: Racial Disparities in Marijuana Possession Arrests Becoming More Pronounced in Prohibition States appeared first on NORML.
Today, we launch the initial rollout of NORML’s Smoke the Vote for the 2022 midterm elections!
The post It’s Time to Smoke the Vote! appeared first on NORML.