{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/legalization/3","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2277-markdown","title":"Attorney General Sessions May Uphold States' Rights in Regards to Marijuana","slug":"attorney-general-sessions-may-uphold-states-rights-in-regards-to-marijuana","content":"### Imminent Cannabis Crackdown: Maybe Not\r\n\r\nJeff Sessions, vocal anti-marijuana advocate and current Attorney General of the United States, has recently reassured senators that there will be no imminent crack down on marijuana coming from the federal government. Press Secretary Sean Spicer recently hinted that the Trump Administration is planning to take down state-legalized recreational marijuana industries due to his unsubstantiated claims that recreational cannabis consumption leads to more people becoming addicted to opioids. Sessions, however, has privately reassured many different Republican Senators that his plan is to keep the Obama-era marijuana policies in place. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nThe Cole & Ogden memos were put into place by the Obama Administration to create a non-interference policy within state legalized cannabis markets. These memos protect recreational  and medical industries in states where they have been legalized from being prosecuted by the DEA. Sessions, despite his prior personal statements connecting cannabis with immorality, seemingly plans (for now) to keep these memos in place according to what he has been telling senators. \r\n\r\n### Private Conversations Confirmed by Senators\r\n\r\nSessions apparent conversations explaining he will keep the memos in place have been confirmed by two senators, Rand Paul and Cory Gardner. The senators, from Kentucky and Colorado respectively, have both tied the maintenance of these memos by Sessions to his staunch belief in states' rights and the importance he places on limiting federal governmental power. Gardner, who’s constituents in Colorado are currently benefiting greatly from medical and recreational marijuana legalization, has said he has gotten absolutely no impression from Sessions that there will be any policy changes. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA DOES NOT CAUSE OPIOID ADDICTION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marijuana-does-not-cause-opioid-addiction)\r\n\r\nOther senators, however, are being proactive in their approach to Sessions’ potential marijuana policy changes. A handful of senators, led by Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts and Senator Murkowski from Alaska, wrote a letter to Sessions pledging their support to the non-interference system set up by the Obama Administration, particularly in the recreational industries that appear to be the most vulnerable to change. \r\n\r\n### Upholding State's Rights\r\n\r\nIn the letter to Sessions, the senators stated, “We respectfully request that you uphold DOJ's existing policy regarding states that have implemented strong and effective regulations for recreational use. It is critical that states continue to implement these laws.” Most of the senators involved in writing the letter are from the eight states that have voted to legalize recreational marijuana and all of the senators, except for Murkowski, are Democrats. \r\n\r\nPotential changes are not only an issue for Senators with states which have legalized recreational or medical marijuana in their state, but also for Republican senators who believe staunchly in the importance of states’ rights. If Sessions changes his mind and decides to interfere in states that have legalized internal cannabis industries, it could greatly go against the core Republican ideals that Sessions, and other members of the administration, constantly aim to stay consistent with. \r\n\r\nSome crack downs against marijuana could still occur, however, in the form of more work by the DEA against illegal drug cartels. Only time will tell if attorney general Sessions will choose to stick to his word and allow for the continuation of medical and recreational markets without federal government interference, or if he will decide to change his approach.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEBf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABzbp3C0CN/wD/xAAaEAACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMREgAx/9oACAEBAAEFAq4NpF8jjLkZV2Bv/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQMQ/9oACAEDAQE/AZrn/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhD/2gAIAQIBAT8BU//EAB8QAAIBBAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMREiIjYUFRgf/aAAgBAQAGPwKbOEUeFmlC49mWX7MVGb9zkrEHqf/EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEhABExQYGxwf/aAAgBAQABPyGoDPkPqqOQxu3pi/JNVQElbCgJwQQQn//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQN8//xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMQFB8P/aAAgBAwEBPxCgh6T/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEYH/2gAIAQIBAT8QSj//xAAeEAEBAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhQVExcZGhsf/aAAgBAQABPxBpwPE2kDfZ5+zCnA0VnE7wRR4fkMcgLEdA9W7/ADCwXSRVrrnN6nKuh0TP/9k=","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/14b42/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/f836f/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/2244e/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 400w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/14b42/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 800w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/47498/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/3a12e/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/58556/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/61e93/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/1f5c5/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 400w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/58556/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 800w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/99238/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 1200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/b5697/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2435-markdown","title":"Will California's Innovation Slow: Ask Colorado","slug":"will-californias-innovation-slow-ask-colorado","content":"As far as the cannabis world is concerned, I have front row seats. I live in Colorado, but for the last 2 years have operated (in my capacity at HelloMD) mostly in California. I get to live - and play -  in the evolution of Colorado’s legalization experiment; yet work in and observe Californian’s massive transition from a medical cannabis-only market, to a full-fledged legal marketplace.\r\n\r\n### Colorado Cannabis: Regulation or Innovation?\r\n\r\nUntil recently, my view into the Colorado market was only one of a local consumer. And frankly my experience had been somewhat unremarkable. By this I imply that legalization in Colorado has not felt terribly abnormal, and by many accounts, been quite successful. The numbers support this ($1.2B in 2016 sales; $200M+ in taxes). Furthermore, thousands of jobs were added, entire towns have been rebooted, the state has registered huge upticks in tourism, and on the global stage, Colorado finally has a real home.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nThe consumer experience though, particularly in the first 2 years of implementation, felt unimpressive when compared to what I expected and to what I experienced in California. Retail was mostly uninspiring, the product choice and packaging struck me as stale in spots, and for an industry moving through such uncharted waters, innovation just felt lacking.\r\n\r\nBut recently, as HelloMD has turned its attention to national and global markets, I began scratching below the surface in Colorado. All is not what it seems here. To better understand this, I met with the leaders and founders of three highly reputed dispensary groups in Colorado - Groundswell, GoodChem and Lightshade. And while I started by intimating they look to California to benchmark future innovation (spoken like a true Californian of course), I quickly understood that in this case, the tables are squarely turned the other way. It’s California, and its slew of green-rush entrepreneurs, that must understand Colorado’s journey to be prepare for the future.\r\n\r\n### California vs. Colorado: Similar but Different\r\n\r\nThe sheer determination of these Colorado cannabis entrepreneurs is what struck me the most. To be clear, in each case, that determination is paying off. All have survived the highs and lows of the legalization tornado and are looking optimistically ahead. Yet, perhaps like 3-4 years from now in California, the battle that is running a cannabis company in Colorado never really seems to cease.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [3 MARIJUANA MYTHS BUSTED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/3-marijuana-myths-busted)\r\n\r\nIt was also fascinating to hear how similarly the Colorado and California markets have acted at various stages of legalization. And, as I listened to stories of how these companies grew up, it also became clear why the consumer experience was less inspiring than I hoped for (and perhaps why it paled in comparison to California's). Ultimately, what I heard painted a picture of what could happen to California going forward.\r\n\r\n### Pre-Legalization Colorado: A Lot Like California Today. \r\n\r\n>Colorado was for some time a medical-only but very fast growing market\r\n\r\n>Growth capital was hard to come by\r\n>Innovation at the product and retail level felt pervasice; entrepreneurs felt free to push the boundaries and respond to consumer demand\r\n\r\n>New talent and entrepreneurial spirit flowed rapidly into the market including from outside Colorado\r\n\r\n### Post-Legalization: What California Can Learn from Colorado\r\n\r\n>Packaging decisions became more those of government rather than operators (more than once, product companies have had to unload inventory and start all over to comply to new packaging laws)\r\n\r\n>No longer could entrepreneurs speed new products the market\r\n\r\n>Marketing channels continued to be restrictive, even as capital costs - because of regulation - grew\r\n\r\n>Different regulations for medical and recreational outlets made economies of scale difficult to realize\r\n\r\n>Hiring/training product consultants (bud tenders) continues to be a sore spot yet increasingly a differentiator as maturing consumers demand better service\r\n\r\n>Because of the surge in demand for recreational cannabis, the medical side was left with less identity, forcing entrepreneurs to re-imaging how to serve both sides of the market. \r\n\r\n>The social stigma around cannabis, while much improved, is far from gone\r\n\r\n### What's Next for California?\r\n\r\nIn a nutshell, regulatory constraints choked innovation in ways not always obvious to the consumer. Yet with 3 years of legalization under their belts, I was encouraged to hear from all that innovation is returning. And I can clearly see this in the stores today. Even the recreational versus medical dilemma seems to be stabilizing at the retail level. All reported a very loyal following for their medical businesses; medical outlets seem increasingly frequented by the very sick seeking alternative solutions, while those looking to address chronic conditions are happy visiting recreational outlets.\r\n \r\nThe last few years have been heady times in the California cannabis industry. A new generation of entrepreneurs has powered the flow of new brands, novel consumptions methods, micro-dosed offerings and have normalized retail experiences. What’s coming next though is unclear. So even if the landscape and market sizes are different, California best do what it can to learn from Colorado’s journey.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/14b42/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg","srcSet":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/f836f/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/2244e/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 400w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/14b42/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 800w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/47498/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 1200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/3a12e/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/58556/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/61e93/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/1f5c5/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 400w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/58556/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 800w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/99238/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 1200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/b5697/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2274-markdown","title":"Keep Your Medicine Legal & Prevent a Crackdown on REC","slug":"keep-your-medicine-legal-and-prevent-a-crackdown-on-rec","content":"### A Looming Crackdown on REC?\r\n\r\nThe [Associate Press](http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/sean-spicer-feds-expand-enforcement-marijuana-laws-article-1.2980814) reported on comments by White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer this week:\r\n\r\n>The Justice Department will step up enforcement of federal laws against recreational marijuana, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Thursday.\r\n\r\n>This is the Trump administration’s strongest indication to date of a looming crackdown on the drug, even as a solid majority of Americans believe it should be legal.\r\n\r\n>“I do believe you’ll see greater enforcement of it,” Spicer said in response to a question during a news conference.\r\n\r\nYet we have no idea what that enforcement might be.\r\n\r\n### Steps You Can Take to Keep Your Medicine Legal\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, the line between recreational use and medical use is not as a black and white as everyone in government seems to think it is. If the federal government chooses to have \"greater enforcement\", this could be the demise of not only the entire industry but would most likely greatly impede your access to medicine and reengage and fuel the black markets.\r\n\r\nHere are some steps you can take:\r\n\r\n### 1. Write to Your Congressperson\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b36f9054073f000ff5aee9/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.12.53_PM.png) \r\n[DPA](http://www.drugpolicy.org/?_ga=1.197700587.538648698.1488152403) helps fight against the renewal of a War on Drugs\r\n\r\nDrug Policy Alliance makes it simple to [write to your Congressperson](https://engage.drugpolicy.org/secure/end-federal-war-marijuana-2017). Just fill in the form and press send. \r\n\r\nIf you disagree with the War on Drugs, then also follow up and [fill in this form that speaks out against Attorney General Jeff Sessions](https://engage.drugpolicy.org/secure/end-federal-war-marijuana-2017) and his desire to reinvigorate the War on Drugs.\r\n\r\n### 2. Sign a White House Petition to Respect State's Laws on Marijuana\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b36f9154073f000ff5aeea/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.14.48_PM.png)\r\nThe [White House petition](https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/keep-your-campaign-pledge-respect-state-marijuana-legalization-laws) is a good way for your voice to be heard. \r\n \r\n[Sign the petition to keep the DOJ out of states](https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/keep-your-campaign-pledge-respect-state-marijuana-legalization-laws) where citizens lawfully abide by those state's laws. As stated on the petition:\r\n\r\n>On February 23, Press Secretary Sean Spicer indicated the Department of Justice might begin \"greater enforcement\" of federal law in states that have legalized marijuana. But during the campaign President Trump repeatedly pledged that if elected the federal government would respect the rights of states to enact their own cannabis laws. That is a wise policy supported by a growing super-majority of voters. They know that state marijuana legalization laws hurt the cartels, fund our schools and roads, and protect public health and safety. Studies in the Journal of the American Medical Association and others have shown that states with legal and accessible medical and recreational marijuana see a significant reduction in opioid death rates. Please keep your promise to the American people.\r\n\r\n### 3. Stay Informed\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b3701f57cbb8000707590a/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.15.21_PM.png)\r\nSubscribe to [Weedweek](https://www.weedweek.net/), the comprehensive news source on cannabis.\r\n\r\nDo you want to know what is happening week to week? Subscribe to [HelloMD's newsletter Advisor](https://www.hellomd.com/) by registering on our site. Also, receive [Alex Halperin's WeedWeek](https://www.weedweek.net/) which is the most comprehensive cannabis news source - anywhere. It comes every Saturday at 8am and is the highlight of my weekend.\r\n\r\n### 4. Stay Legal\r\n\r\nFollow the laws of your state. If your state offers a medical card, I would highly recommend continuing with this practice until we know exactly what is going on. This goes for personal consumption, but also on the flip side. If you run a business and medical cards are legally required, continue to require them until a REC law goes into full effect. Follow the law to the letter.\r\n\r\n[HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/14b42/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/f836f/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/2244e/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 400w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/14b42/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 800w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/47498/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/54ac5/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/58556/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/61e93/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/1f5c5/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 400w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/58556/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 800w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/99238/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 1200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/5e0b8/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2153-markdown","title":"Marijuana Legalization is Going Global","slug":"marijuana-legalization-is-going-global","content":"### Progressive Policies Taking Hold\n\nIn the past few years we have seen progressively more legislation in the United States that is swinging in support of marijuana, both medical and recreational. States have built billion dollar industries on the formerly banned plant and other countries have taken notice. \n\nThe United States hasn’t always been on the forefront of marijuana legislation, but it is becoming a hot-bed for creativity and innovation in the marijuana industry. Though the United States is still limited by the overarching federally illegal status of cannabis, states have taken it upon themselves to embrace the amazing plant on their own. \n\n### Countries Outside the United States\n\nOften if people think of cannabis outside of the US, there is one country that comes to mind, the Netherlands. The cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam has long been the center of cannabis in the world due to its laissez-faire openly progressive marijuana policies. Yet  those who are up to date on their medicinal cannabis studies know that Israel is also the center of many marijuana innovations due to their extensive studies devoted to the health benefits of the plant. Though cannabis is still illegal in most countries in the world, here is a snapshot of the countries that are embracing marijuana in one way or another. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Uruguay\n\nUruguay was the first county in the world to completely legalize cannabis. The move, which was initiated in 2013, has become an interesting model for countries who have partially legalized the plant. There are still some bumps in the road, however, particularly in relation to the registration process in the country. There is very little trust of the government in Uruguay and some worry that the government database for legal cannabis users could be used against them later if a different administration comes into power and changes the laws. Interestingly, the majority of Uruguay’s population is not in favor of marijuana.\n\n### Czech Republic\n\nThe Czech Republic legalized medicinal marijuana in 2013, but the country has struggled to provide a consistent and quality source of medication to their patients. It is still notoriously hard to access cannabis even after you have received the proper credentials to obtain medical marijuana. Many hope that the Czech Republic alleviates some of their issues in the coming year as they create a more established industry. \n\nRELATED: [CANADA'S CASE FOR LEGALIZATION](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/576ead4d16f3ba0007000174/canadian-prime-ministers-case-for-marijuana-legalization)\n\n### Ecuador\n\nEcuador is trying to change the image of drugs within their country. A long time victim of drug related gangs and the consequential War on Drugs, Ecuador has recently loosened their legal repercussions to cannabis. Though they have not technically legalized cannabis in any way, they have chosen to make it legal to have small amounts of marijuana. This has come on the tail of a widespread effort to pardon many non-violent drug offenders in the country. Many people believe Ecuador may soon follow in the footsteps of Uruguay and move towards full legalization of cannabis. \n\n### Canada\n\nOur neighbor to the north has often been quite friendly to medical cannabis, but they have yet to recreationally legalize cannabis in any provinces. Medical marijuana is widely available and is seen as respected medication. Patients are reimbursed by the government for visits to the cannabis doctor and there is government oversight for medicinal marijuana production and distribution. They have also decreased marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule II substance, a move that the Untied States failed to make in the last year. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/588f897cd5e9e1000c153b31/embedded_images/588f8b44c660b1000cff8542/Screen_Shot_2017-01-30_at_10.49.48_AM.png) \n\n### Spain\n\nSpain is an interesting case in the world of marijuana. From walking down the streets of Barcelona, you would largely believe that marijuana is legal, but it is not. Amsterdam style “coffee shops” line the streets and they are quite popular, but technically they are still illegal. Marijuana has been decriminalized in Spain and it is widely accepted, leading many people to believe that it will soon be recreationally legalized. \n\n### Portugal\n\nCannabis is not legal in Portugal, but it is not illegal either. Portugal decriminalized all drug possession in 2001 and since, they have served as an experiment into the world of complete personal determination when it comes to drug use. Portugal is clear to point out that the medical marijuana industry in the country is completely distinct from the grey recreational industry that exists in a country with complete drug decriminalization.\n\n### Netherlands\n\nAmsterdam has built a reputation on its “coffee shops” that dish out made to order joints and famous “moon cake” edibles. In the rest of the country, however, recreational cannabis is not legal, however medicinal consumption is. This has created an interesting dichotomy in a county with a city famous for its cannabis tourism. Laws regarding cannabis have actually gotten harsher in recent years, making cannabis more difficult to access.\n\n### Germany\n\nGermany is one of the newest countries to approve medical marijuana within their borders. The move was unanimously voted in and will take effect in March of 2017. Much like medical marijuana within the Untied States, patients will have to be approved by a doctor using a list of qualifying conditions, or based on a physician’s opinion. Germany is increasingly becoming a world leader on cannabis and as well as other global issues, especially within the European Union, making it a pronounced example for other countries across the world. \n\n### A Snapshot of What's to Come\n\nThese eight countries only provide a snapshot of what is happening in cannabis industries all across the world. Eight other countries and territories across the world have also legalized cannabis recreationally, each with different rules and regulations governing what qualities a patient for medical marijuana must have in order to be eligible. Those countries are Australia, Chile, Puerto Rico, Israel, Macedonia, Croatia, Colombia, and Poland. \n\nThe tide has turned in favor of legalization all across the world and it is likely that that trend with continue to spread. Marijuana is also being widely decriminalized even when it is not being legalized. Continued research from all across the world will provide increasingly more countries with the motivation to legalize marijuana due to its widespread effectiveness as a medication. \n\n_____________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/14b42/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg","srcSet":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/f836f/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/2244e/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 400w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/14b42/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 800w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/47498/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 1200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/54ac5/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/58556/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/61e93/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/1f5c5/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 400w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/58556/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 800w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/99238/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 1200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/5e0b8/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2323-markdown","title":"The Trump Administration & Marijuana ","slug":"the-trump-administration-and-marijuana","content":"### The Future of Marijuana in the US\n\nI am one of the 65 million United States citizens that live in states that have legalized marijuana in some form. Currently, half of all Americans have access to medical marijuana and almost all of the others have access to non-pyschoactive CBD forms of cannabis. Only six states have not legalized marijuana in any form. This follows the tide of pro-marijuana sentiment that has swept across the United States in recent years.\n\nIf you are someone involved in the marijuana industry, either as a patient, a grower, or a producer, you have probably experienced a certain level of fear following the most recent presidential election. I too have found myself often contemplating the future of the industry that has dramatically increased the quality of life for so many people, decreased the need for harsh and addictive pharmaceuticals, and provided a plethora of new jobs in states that have legalized marijuana. \n\nThe marijuana industry has flourished under the Obama administration and has been able to provide help to many people who needed it desperately. So much progress has been made that has changed the image of marijuana, which was once labeled as a dangerous gateway drug (which has since been disproven). With widespread support of the American population, cannabis has rightfully found its place as a beneficial and applicable medication in the United States. Yet, there is a chance that this widespread access could change and people may no longer be able to access their much needed medication, if the new administration so chooses.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION IS IN JEOPARDY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/583dbdca3a73fb0008647e42/marijuana-legalization-is-in-jeopardy)\n\n### President Obama’s Position\n\nPresident Obama recently reaffirmed his position on marijuana in his interview with [Rolling Stone magazine](http://www.esquire.com/news-politics/news/a51145/obama-weed/?dom=fb_thril&src=social&mag=esq) by saying, “I do believe that treating [marijuana] as a public-health issue, the same way we do with cigarettes or alcohol, is a much smarter way to deal with it.” \n\nHe stressed in his interview, however, that cannabis related issues are not decided by the President but by laws and DEA policy. He expressed that the DEA might not always be on the “cutting edge” about marijuana related issues. This is consistent with President Obama’s previous remarks about how he believes that cannabis is less dangerous than alcohol for personal consumption. President Obama and his administration put the Cole memo in place to established a non-interference policy with marijuana in states where it has been legalized, allowing for the industry to expand un-impeded by marijuana’s title as a Schedule I substance. \n\n### The Trump Effect\n\nOur current President Elect, Donald Trump, does not have a record for being against the use of marijuana, specifically medical marijuana. Long before his time a politician, Trump expressed concerns about the War on Drugs because of the amount of money it has wasted and the amount of money it brought to drug cartels. Recently though, he has expressed trepidation about recreational marijuana, though he has stayed completely in support of medical marijuana. Many members who are beginning to be added to Trumps cabinet, however, have harsh anti-marijuana records that concern me greatly. \n\nJeff Sessions, Trump’s current nominee for Attorney General, is one of the most outspoken supporters of the War on Drugs in the United States congress. [He has referred](http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/12/jeff-sessions-coming-war-on-legal-marijuana-214501?utm_medium=email&utm_source=flipboard) to marijuana reform as a “tragic mistake” and thinks there has been widespread disturbances in states where it was legalized. \n\nSenator Sessions words completely disregard all of the obvious medicinal value of cannabis and instead promotes the use of a draconian drug policy. He has criticized Attorney Generals Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch, as well as Obama, for being soft on marijuana and allowing state legalization to occur under their watch. As someone involved in the industry, it is hard to watch someone who clearly knows nothing about the potential benefits of cannabis, say that marijuana has not helped thousands if not millions of people. Cannabis can prevent suffering from a plethora of conditions and is replacing extremely addictive and deadly drugs like opioids. \n\n### Reversal of Cannabis Protection\n\nIf Jeff Sessions is approved as Attorney General, he has the ability to reverse the years of progress in support of marijuana through just one signature. Sessions has the ability to revoke the Cole memo that essentially protects citizens in legal states. Reversing the memo would immediately allow the DEA to enter states and arrest growers, retailers, and patients at will.  \n\nThe current $6.7 billion industry could be completely wiped out against the favor of the majority of the American population. As Obama said, marijuana policy is far more dictated by people outside of the presidency, so even if Trump does not intend to wipe out the marijuana industry, members of his cabinet like Sessions could drive these decisions. \n\nSome members of Congress believe that Sessions would allow for the continuation of the marijuana industry due to his staunch belief in the protection of states rights. Unfortunately, I believe it is unlikely that an anti-marijuana crusader like Sessions would not take advantage of his position to push his agenda. \n\nUntil we know the stance our new administration will take on the future of cannabis in the United States, it is hard to project what unhindered progress will be made within the industry. The temporary memos side step formal federal laws, so sadly, they can be unraveled just as quickly as they were instated. If this happens, the short term future may be rather bleak. There are a lot of unknowns. My hope is that with 60% of the population in favor of recreational marijuana and 90% of the population in favor of medical, the will of the people will ultimately prevail. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3513513513513513,"src":"/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/ee604/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png","srcSet":"/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/69585/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png 200w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/497c6/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png 400w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/ee604/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png 800w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/f3583/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png 1200w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/4cc43/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.png 1220w","srcWebp":"/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/58556/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/61e93/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp 200w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/1f5c5/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp 400w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/58556/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp 800w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/99238/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp 1200w,\n/static/e88dcfa71a2e011678e17309f1fdbdd0/5740f/ab028d859ae3d362c76ab15fb19ce1c8.webp 1220w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2338-markdown","title":"Marijuana Legalization is in Jeopardy","slug":"marijuana-legalization-is-in-jeopardy","content":"### Sessions: The New Attorney General\n\nJeff Sessions, who was recently recommended for the position of Attorney General under president elect Trump, could be the worst case scenario for the marijuana industry. The senator from Alabama is one of the most outspoken anti-marijuana advocates in the country and he represents a state with some of the harshest marijuana laws in the country. Sessions has spent his whole career speaking out against marijuana and its legalization and, in the position of Attorney General, he may have the power to do something about it. \n\nJeff Sessions has spoken to the Senate many times about his concerns related to marijuana. He has referred to it as “a very real danger” and has expressed concerns about it being legalized in various states. Similarly to gateway theorist Chris Christy, Sessions has called out President Obama for not doing enough to prevent marijuana from being legalized on the state level. \n\n### \"Good People Don't Smoke Marijuana.\"\n\nSessions believes that Obama should have never let legalization happen and has said, “You can’t have the President of the United States of America talking about marijuana … you are sending a message to young people that there is no danger in this process. It is false that marijuana use doesn’t lead people to more drug use. It is already causing a disturbance in the states that have made it legal.”. \n\nSessions has even gone as far as stating, “good people don’t smoke marijuana”. He believes that the American population and many legislators are widely under informed on the dangers of cannabis and that people should be paying much more attention to concerns like drivers who are driving under the influence of cannabis. \n\n### Strengthening a War on Drugs\n\nMarijuana’s “biggest opponent in the Senate” has even come out with a pro-war on drugs stance. Widely contrasting with Trump’s personal sentiment expressed towards the war on drugs, Sessions has said that the war on drugs has made tremendous positive progress since the 80s. Despite many widespread concerns related to the war on drugs, Sessions believes that this outdated crusade should be maintained or, “lives will be impacted, families will be broken up, children will be damaged.”\n\nRELATED: [ON OPEN LETTER TO JEFF SESSIONS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/583219913aebad000c886c17/an-open-letter-to-jeff-sessions)\n\n### Anti-Marijuana Policies?\n\nTrump’s personal opinions on marijuana may appear quite harmless and, in the case of medical marijuana, extremely supportive, but Sessions could serve to add to the anti-marijuana cabinet staff that Trump is starting to build. It is quite possible that Trump’s own personal opinions could be changed by Sessions, who could serve to halt the non-interference policy currently in place in states with legalized marijuana programs. \n\nSessions, if confirmed, could aggressively enforce the current laws in place under the Controlled Substances Act, which would make state marijuana industries completely illegal under federal law. The Cole memos, which currently protect the state run industries, could be quickly revoked if Session is able to gain Trump’s ear on the issue of marijuana. Only time will tell if Session will be confirmed to the position of Attorney General and if he will use his position of power as a platform to fuel his anti-cannabis crusade. \n\n_____________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIF/8QAFAEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABwwSD/8QAGhAAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARECEiEiMf/aAAgBAQABBQLWqRPcVszIs//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQMBAT8BP//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQIBAT8BP//EABgQAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIWEi/9oACAEBAAY/AtWprqP/xAAcEAEAAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hYint6zGNtHkOebhZQgWBU//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQIM//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/ED//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/ED//xAAgEAEBAAEEAQUAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFRYXGBocHR/9oACAEBAAE/ENCCc1jfTrCbKiyPtjUIuNE+cZVBuGNPHWVaJYT8y31Gohv7Z//Z","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/14b42/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/f836f/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg 200w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/2244e/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg 400w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/14b42/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg 800w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/47498/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/54ac5/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/58556/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/61e93/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp 200w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/1f5c5/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp 400w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/58556/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp 800w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/99238/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp 1200w,\n/static/73cbbbf791b83031f3df8f9ed07636bd/5e0b8/cfa8279725af8555024027158555aa9e.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2160-markdown","title":"Have We Come Too Far Too Soon?","slug":"have-we-come-too-far-too-soon","content":"I have never been a fan of states getting [too far ahead](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/580e6623b3a976000a79dfa9/why-i-am-voting-no-on-prop-64) of the federal government on drug policy. \n\nYes, I want to push the legalization agenda forward and I believe all drugs (not just cannabis) should be legal. However, we live in a country with both state and federal laws, and federal agencies like the DEA have significant power over citizens everywhere.\n\nWith President Obama in office, and the expectation that President Hillary Clinton would be next, it was frustrating that the feds had not moved the ball forward on cannabis, but not too much of an issue since the states seemed to be doing their part. The [Cole]( https://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/resources/3052013829132756857467.pdf) and [Ogden]( https://www.justice.gov/opa/blog/memorandum-selected-united-state-attorneys-investigations-and-prosecutions-states) memos gave cannabis entrepreneurs some comfort that they at least would not be arrested (assuming they were following all local laws). That said, there were still exceptions to this with people getting [harassed by the DEA]( https://www.newcannabisventures.com/dea-and-local-law-enforcement-raid-care-by-design-cannabis-company/), sometimes seemingly without good cause or reason.\n\nMoreover, it did appear that at least on medical cannabis, there was a growing [sense of acknowledgement]( https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/08/11/what-congress-is-saying-about-the-deas-refusal-to-change-course-on-pot/) by members of congress, the [medical establishment]( https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/04/15/more-and-more-doctors-want-to-make-marijuana-legal/) and others of the plant's medicinal benefits. This summer the DEA even [considered]( http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/dea-considers-dropping-marijuana-dangerous-group-article-1.2591306) rescheduling cannabis from its ludicrous classification as a Schedule I drug, which states there are no benefits at all, medicinal or otherwise. Unfortunately, that [did not happen]( http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article94999837.html).\n\n[Proposition 64](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58099f9b6b40a8000bf0584e/about-prop-64-what-you-should-know) was passed with strong support from California voters, choosing to make it legal for anybody over the age of 21 to consume cannabis for recreational purposes. This brings the total to eight states that now have recreational cannabis laws passed, if not yet implemented. \n\n### How Things Have Changed\n\nIn just a few short weeks, the world looks very different as we sit in California looking east to Washington DC, wondering what might be coming our way.\n\nPresident Elect Trump, has stated that he [supports medical cannabis]( https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-politics/wp/2015/10/29/trump-wants-marijuana-legalization-decided-at-the-state-level/) and believes it’s an issue for the states to decide, but his nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions has many in the industry reeling. The Senator’s opinion on cannabis seems more in line with that of the late Nancy Reagan than Mr. Trumps. He considers cannabis a gateway drug (which has widely been refuted now), and has [stated]( https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/11/18/trumps-pick-for-attorney-general-good-people-dont-smoke-marijuana/) as recently as April 2016 that “good people don’t smoke marijuana.”.\n\nWithout being alarmist before Mr. Trump has even taken office, it’s important to understand that - assuming his nomination is confirmed - Senator Sessions, as the country’s most senior law enforcement official will oversee the considerable resources of the DEA and have federal law on his side. If he were to follow his instincts, with nothing more than a simple instruction the DEA could begin arresting people across the nation at will and dragging them into federal court. This includes growers, retailers, delivery services, technology companies and anyone else involved in supporting the industry. Even investors, lawyers and accountants could be charged with aiding and abetting the illegal distribution and sale of a Schedule I controlled substance, in some cases putting their professional licenses at risk. \n\n### How Likely is This to Happen?\n\nThe frustrating answer to this is, nobody has any idea at the moment. All we have to go on is what these two gentlemen have stated publicly.  Since Mr. Trump will be President, one would hope that his opinions on medical and states’ rights would determine policy, and he does appear to be somewhat of an autocratic leader. Additionally, there are a lot of policy proposals he must deliver on, and cracking down on the cannabis industry would not seem to be one of them. So perhaps Trump and his Attorney General will be too busy with things like illegal immigration to spend any time on cannabis in the imminent future, at least for a time. \n\nOn the other hand, it’s not like the law needs to change, or resources appropriated to initiate a crackdown. The DEA makes it their business to go after drug offenders and I suspect that the ‘hands off’ approach of the Obama administration has been a period of frustration for them in this regard.\n\n### Medical vs. Recreational\n\nIf there is a compromise to be found between state lawmakers and the federal government, it’s likely in the distinction between medicinal and recreational use. While one can argue whether [all use is medicinal]( http://thefreethoughtproject.com/war-weed-quicker-realize-all-cannabis-medicinal/) (as some do), where states have passed specific laws billed as ‘recreational use’ it’s a distinction like to fall on deaf ears at the federal level. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5835e3743b6fb90008d8e5ab/embedded_images/5835e4dc74b2ca00084f3224/Screen_Shot_2016-11-23_at_10.48.29_AM.png)\n Senator Sessions is unlikely to like this guy.\n\nMore to the point, resistance is unlikely to be through the courts (since it's already illegal) but more likely to come from the DEA arresting people. One would assume that that the first targets on the list to be charged would be those oriented around recreational use rather than medicinal (nothing more than an assumption). At least in California we have 20 years of medicinal history to point to, whereas recreational cannabis has yet to be implemented.  \n\nStates with strong medical programs, product manufacturers with medically oriented positioning, and retailers focused on the needs of legitimate medical patients are likely in a better position than those clearly oriented to the needs of recreational users.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5835e3743b6fb90008d8e5ab/embedded_images/5835e6d674b2ca000c4c20f9/Screen_Shot_2016-11-23_at_10.57.20_AM.png)\nA less offensive image for those at the DEA\n\nI would like to emphasize that this is nothing more than an assumption, since both medical and recreational use of cannabis are equally illegal in the eyes of the federal government. There is so much uncertainty now, it’s very difficult to predict what will transpire over the next four years. \n\nOthers may disagree, but my advice for those in the cannabis industry, is to consider taking a small pause on any plans for recreational cannabis use, allow the new administration to take office and see how things look after the first quarter of 2017. If there is no change in federal policy, there will be time before January 2018 (when California’s law takes effect) to deliver on plans for a recreational market. If on the other hand it becomes clear that the DEA is going to start reasserting itself, I would not want to be one of the most visible, recreational cannabis vendors for the DEA to make an example of. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/ee604/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.png","srcSet":"/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/69585/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.png 200w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/497c6/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.png 400w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/ee604/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.png 800w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/6c104/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.png 1167w","srcWebp":"/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/58556/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/61e93/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.webp 200w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/1f5c5/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.webp 400w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/58556/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.webp 800w,\n/static/e35a87614b537078d1e5cf5a99c1677a/be444/f7f07e6199392c8a659d010f8cc6b95e.webp 1167w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2117-markdown","title":"An Open Letter to Jeff Sessions","slug":"an-open-letter-to-jeff-sessions","content":"Dear Senator Sessions,\n\nCongratulations on your [nomination]( http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/19/us/politics/jeff-sessions-donald-trump-attorney-general.html) for Attorney General. As the nations’ most senior law enforcement official, you have a big job ahead of you. \n\nWhen it comes to marijuana, the fact is that previous administrations have left you with a [pickle of a problem]( http://www.latimes.com/la-oew-gutwillig-imler10-2009mar10-story.html). One that has put millions of Americans and about half the state's laws out of sync with the policies of the federal government, and the [law of the land]( https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml). \n\nAs Attorney General, you will oversee the DEA. You won’t need any assistance in destroying the medical cannabis industry if you so choose. The laws are in place and the resources lined up for you already. You simply need to unleash the DEA and they will go about arresting and charging people from California, to Oregon, to Colorado and in 25 other states. [Federal law breakers]( http://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/resources/criminal-defense/federal-crime/medical-marijuana-federal-laws.htm) all of them, and so easy to find since they are doing business openly, even [paying taxes]( https://www.boe.ca.gov/industry/medical_cannabis.html) on their illegal activities. Can you believe that?\n\nLet’s review what some of the consequences of DEA action might be:\n\n* Destroying the cannabis industry would be [hugely unpopular]( http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/10/12/support-for-marijuana-legalization-continues-to-rise/), likely generating widespread protests across the country. [89% of Americans']( http://www.politico.com/story/2016/06/do-people-support-legalizing-marijuana-223928) now support the use of cannabis for medical purposes with a small majority (54%) supporting complete legalization. [Young people](http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/02/27/63-of-republican-millennials-favor-marijuana-legalization/) in particular would feel very passionate about this issue causing further [disenchantment](http://www.politico.com/story/2016/04/poll-do-millennials-like-trump-222397) with the new Trump administration. \n\n* Prosecution would drive thousands of (otherwise law abiding) business people underground, where they would once again [sell on the black market]( https://news.vice.com/article/how-americas-legal-weed-is-changing-the-black-market-and-influencing-mexican-cartels).\n\n* People who rely on cannabis would once again be meeting dealers in cars, in their homes and on street corners. [Associated petty crime]( http://news.nationalpost.com/features/o-cannabis-black-market-to-grey) would flourish with all this new illegal activity.\n\n* Millions of people with [anxiety]( https://www.hellomd.com/learn/anxiety), PTSD, [migraines]( https://www.hellomd.com/learn/migraines), [chronic pain]( https://www.hellomd.com/learn/chronic-pain), [insomnia]( https://www.hellomd.com/learn/insomnia) and about 18 other medical conditions would find it much harder to get the products that they have come to rely on over the past few years. There are millions with serious medical conditions, including children with epilepsy and seizure disorders, that depend on medical marijuana. \n\n* Fewer people would use to cannabis get off opioids and end their opioid addiction. This is currently one of the biggest health issues in America.\n\n* Tax revenue for [schools]( http://www.npr.org/2016/09/10/492118493/marijuana-pays-for-schools-in-colorado-kind-of-but-how-will-it-help-maine), [drug treatment]( http://www.thecannabist.co/2016/03/22/richard-branson-marijuana-tax-drug-treatment/50492/) programs, [education]( http://www.ibtimes.com/how-legal-marijuana-funds-education-colorado-taxes-go-prevent-bullying-2423329), [law enforcement]( https://blog.mpp.org/prohibition/for-law-enforcement-marijuana-is-where-the-money-is/), medical research and [lots of other]( http://taxfoundation.org/article/marijuana-legalization-and-taxes-lessons-other-states-colorado-and-washington)  programs would dwindle.\n\n* Growers would continue growing, but doing so once again out of sight. Their products would no longer be [tested for pesticides]( https://www.leafly.com/news/industry/leaflys-state-by-state-guide-to-cannabis-testing-regulations) or harmful chemicals putting people at risk.\n  \n* Thousands of businesses owners would close their doors, lay off their employees and stop paying taxes.\n\n* People would still use marijuana, just as they have done for thousands of years.\n\n* All of this would be hugely unpopular within the electorate, at a time when the Trump administration desperately needs to [unite the country]( http://www.recorder.com/editorial-election-reaction-5946895) around its agenda.\n\nMr. Sessions, I know that you are [no fan of marijuana]( http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/jeff-sessions-marijuana_us_582f58d5e4b030997bbf479c), but let me propose a way that you might navigate this huckleberry, while remaining true to your core beliefs as a conservative, as well as showing support for the ‘[jobs first](http://www.newstarget.com/2016-11-14-immigration-healthcare-and-jobs-are-going-to-be-president-trumps-first-priorities.html)’ agenda of our new President. \n\n1.\tState publicly, even though you don’t support the marijuana movement, that you strongly believe in the conservative principles of states’ rights and [federalism]( https://home.isi.org/conservatism-centralization-and-constitutional-federalism), and therefore marijuana policy should be up to the states to decide. The federal government has [no business involving]( http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/27/opinion/sunday/high-time-let-states-decide-on-marijuana.html) itself in this issue. \n\n2.\tInstruct the DEA to continue following the [Cole Memo](https://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/resources/3052013829132756857467.pdf)  which said that the federal government should not expend its resources pursuing people that are [observing](http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/30/us/politics/us-says-it-wont-sue-to-undo-state-marijuana-laws.html) state and local laws.\n\n3.\tRecognize that more than [60 percent](http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/politics-government/white-house/article115643188.html) of Americans now live in states where voters have approved either medical marijuana, recreational marijuana, or both. Allowing states to get further out of alignment with the federal government is problematic. To solve this problem once and for all, simply instruct the DEA to remove marijuana from the list of controlled substances, where it can be regulated and taxed like alcohol or tobacco (two far more harmful substances).\n\n4.\tRecognize that cannabis is the [fastest growing industry]( http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/26/marijuana-industry-fastest-growing_n_6540166.html) in the US, and with [$100B industry]( https://www.newcannabisventures.com/ackrell-capital-forecasts-100-billion-cannabis-market-in-2029/) forecast by 2029, it’s a [massive job creator]( http://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/oregon/2016/05/16/report-oregons-marijuana-market-taking-off/84461532/) (something every conservative should be able to get behind).\n\nMr. Sessions, if you have any remaining doubts, have your people give me a call. I would be happy to connect you with [tens of thousands]( https://www.hellomd.com/medical-marijuana-patient-survey) of everyday Americans, who are finding incredible relief for their serious medical issues, by using a harmless weed that grows just about anywhere. I would also be happy to put you in touch with countless medical professionals who have advised these patients, and are equally convinced of the healing benefits of medical cannabis. \n\nAt HelloMD, we see this first-hand every day of the week. I know things look different in Alabama, but perhaps you should pay a visit to California?\n\nYour Sincerely,\n\nMark Hadfield","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/14b42/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.jpg","srcSet":"/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/f836f/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.jpg 200w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/2244e/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.jpg 400w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/14b42/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.jpg 800w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/16310/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/58556/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/61e93/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.webp 200w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/1f5c5/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.webp 400w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/58556/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.webp 800w,\n/static/529c64474595a8eb77531d57ee367f33/cc834/1d11ba986658ec7cc3f217c76d8cf090.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2004-markdown","title":"What Will a Trump Presidency Mean for Marijuana?","slug":"what-will-a-trump-presidency-mean-for-marijuana","content":"## Trump’s Opinions\r\n\r\nTrump has expressed many different opinions on cannabis during his time in the public spotlight, so what his marijuana policies will be as president are slightly unknown. In the 1990’s, Trump expressed that he believed the war on dugs was a failure and that, “You have to legalize drugs to win that war.” He expressed the importance of legalization in order to take profits away from drug cartels and proposed country-wide marijuana legalization. \r\n\r\nMore recently on the campaign trail, however, he has expressed more [trepidation](https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/what-would-a-trump-presidency-mean-for-cannabis) about full scale marijuana legalization. Though he does recognize states’ abilities to individually legalize marijuana, he also has articulated that he sees some problems within states like Colorado, where marijuana is recreationally legal. The one aspect of marijuana policy that Trump has held steady on is his support of medical marijuana. Trump believes in full legalization of medical marijuana and recognizes its benefits as an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. \r\n\r\n## Trump's Potential Cabinet\r\n\r\nThough Trump himself, based on past opinions, does not spell disaster for the marijuana industry in the country, there is more concern related to many of his top cabinet picks. Many of Trump’s inner circle, who are suspected to be up for top cabinet positions when the Trump administration takes office, have records that are completely anti-marijuana. Chris Christie, Rudy Giuliani, and, possibly most importantly, Mike Pence, have all created their political careers around a strong anti-marijuana stance. \r\n\r\nChris Christie was very clear during his personal presidential run that he believed in following federal drug laws above all else. He has [implied](http://www.politico.com/story/2015/07/chris-christie-enforce-marijuana-illegal-2016-120769) in the past that President Obama is skirting some of his presidential duties by not enforcing marijuana laws in states where it has been recreationally legalized. Though Christie has allowed for medical marijuana in New Jersey, where he is the governor, he is very [clear](http://www.thecannabist.co/2016/09/15/new-jersey-medical-marijuana-christie-signs/63244/) that medical marijuana should only be used for very specific medical conditions, particularly when traditional pharmaceuticals have not worked. Christie is a staunch supporter of the gateway theory, which suggests that marijuana is a gateway drug to harder drug use, which has been widely disproved. \r\n\r\nRudy Giuliani was known for his crack-down on cannabis during his time as the [mayor](http://www.alternet.org/story/84515/nyc's_staggering_arrest_rate_for_pot_achieved_by_police_deception_and_scams) of New York City. His efforts experienced large amounts of backlash, though they are still in place in the city. As a result of his policies, which are considered by many to be racist, 400,000 people have been arrested for misdemeanor marijuana possession in the city in the last decade. \r\n\r\nMike Pence is known for rejecting multiple ballot measures in Indiana during his time as governor that would have decriminalized marijuana. Indiana is one of the few states where any amount of cannabis can land you in jail. Pence currently does not support medical marijuana in any capacity, though he has made comments that he could possibly support it in the future. \r\n\r\n## The Existing System & What Might Change?\r\n\r\nThe Obama administration has taken a non-interference stance on [cannabis](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/11/09/what-the-future-of-marijuana-legalization-could-look-like-under-president-trump/). Though cannabis technically falls under the Controlled Substances Act, the administration put memos into place in 2013 that state that the DEA should not inhibit the marijuana industry in states where it is legalized. The DEA is allowed to still interfere in state-legal industries when they involve particular problems like the minors, driving under the influence, or growing cannabis on federal land. These memos were put into place to allow state industries to run unimpeded and to focus DEA priorities onto major issues like the opioid epidemic. \r\n\r\nReversing the current policy, however, is extremely easy. Simply revoking the memo created by President Obama would render all non-interference policies void and allow for full intervention by the DEA. Maintaining the memos, and allowing for the continued expansion of the industry, is in the best interest of the Trump administration. According to a June Politico poll, 54% of Americans think that marijuana should be legalized in all capacities, while a whopping 89% of Americans are pro medical marijuana. \r\n\r\nThis idea has been driven home by the recent election, where all but one state with a marijuana proposition on the ballot passed it. Following the [election](http://www.livescience.com/56807-recreational-marijuana-california-massachusetts-nevada.html#infographic), 8 states have legalized recreational marijuana, 21 states have legalized medical marijuana, and 15 states have legalized limited medical marijuana, which mainly involves the allowance of only high CBD, low THC products. Going against marijuana legalization would be going against the majority of the population. \r\n\r\nNot only would going against marijuana legalization cause the Trump administration unnecessary trouble, it would ruin a great source of revenue for the government. The marijuana industry also serves to create many new jobs in many sectors, from labor to research to manufacturing. According the Harvard [economist](http://www.dailydot.com/via/marijuana-legalization-economic-argument/) Jeffrey Miron, there is $113 billion to be made from legalized marijuana, which could create $45 billion in tax revenue for the government. As an added bonus, marijuana legalization could majorly decrease the number of incarcerated people, cutting down on costs for the federal government to pay to keep people in prisons. Marijuana legalization will also cut down on the necessary budget for drug enforcement.\r\n\r\nIt is unknown exactly what stance the Trump administration will take on marijuana, but it is better for them, and the country as a whole, to at least maintain the industry as it is. Trying to cut down the current industry would be extremely costly, and cause major problems by going against the majority opinion of the country. Marijuana legalization is one of the few things the most of the country agreed on this election season, so it is in the best interest for Trump and his future administration to support, or at least not interfere with, the cannabis industry. \r\n______________________________________________________________________\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/83057948@N07/27628453642/in/photolist-J6r3H1-9pXsuo-aaAdYC-2bcnZi-BCPJRr-58fvFr-3C3scH-iXFgGa-5U1TNS-7wQykM-HCnKry-KWS9-6TnEMn-JAs7ur-9ConY9-f654mJ-apZyru-JzshGB-dEcwwR-6yeac-nJm9Zs-9dnu6X-fcB6dX-9wibdH-5reEGc-jj7qp-9tXzTh-6UC3BR-jj7ow-4Ay7dq-jj7tv-6cVHqj-7asLyE-agyQRH-4K7hBj-6urpoT-DFPLEG-a5fHJb-jj7rB-6qANwX-5vBkto-BGpP5E-eb4LHi-nA1wNT-bYf4Eq-eb4LRt-2sMJpt-9oAUoh-eb4LFT-b4BjaK)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3245033112582782,"src":"/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/ee604/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.png","srcSet":"/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/69585/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.png 200w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/497c6/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.png 400w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/ee604/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.png 800w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/0a5e0/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.png 1065w","srcWebp":"/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/58556/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/61e93/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.webp 200w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/1f5c5/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.webp 400w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/58556/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.webp 800w,\n/static/bd2aa4a4160b586246ca4f44c05855d7/a71cf/c84e15b76346dc0aae13d72aeaa39c30.webp 1065w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2088-markdown","title":"Marijuana Legalization Victories Sweep Across the US","slug":"marijuana-legalization-victories-sweep-across-the-us","content":"One thing is clear following the recent election, pro-marijuana sentiment continues to take root all across the country. All but one marijuana bill on ballots across the country passed, opening up even more states to recreational and medical marijuana. Across the country now: 8 states have legalized recreational marijuana, 21 states have legalized medical marijuana, and 15 states have legalized limited medical marijuana, which primarily refers to only the allowance of high CBD, low THC cannabis products. Not only do these many new bills provide marijuana to many people it could help, but each new market has the potential to produce large amounts of money for the states they are in. Here’s a review of what bills passed across the United States. \n\n## Medical\n\n#### Arkansas: Issue 6\n\nArkansas’s medical marijuana issue included a list of 17 medical conditions that would qualify a patient for medical marijuana use. It includes the creation of a Medical Marijuana Commission and a tax system that would provide revenue to technical institutes, vocational schools, and a general fund. The issue passed with 53% of the vote. The Arkansas medical marijuana industry is projected to generate $6.4 million. \n\n#### Florida: Amendment 2\n\nFlorida previously defeated a similar amendment to their state constitution in 2014, but this year it passed with 71.9% in favor. The amendment allows doctors to prescribe marijuana to patients with cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/Aids, PTSD, Crohn’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, MS, or “other debilitating conditions”. The Florida market is expected to generate $1.6 billion. \n\n#### Montana: Initiative 182\n\nInitiative 182 amends the previous medical marijuana bill in Montana that had created very strict restrictions on the number of recommendations doctors could give and caused other problems that limited many people from having access to medical marijuana. The new initiative requires providers to get licenses and receive regular inspections. It does, however, remove restrictions on provider limits and allows chronic pain and PTSD patients to access medical marijuana. The initiative passed with 56.9% of the vote, and is projected to produce $127.7 million. \n\n#### North Dakota: Measure 5\n\nNorth Dakota’s measure 5 sets up a system for the creation of nonprofit “compassion centers” that allow patients to access medical marijuana. If a patient lives more than 40 miles from a care center, however, they are able to grow a limited number of plants. Patients enrolled in the medical marijuana program are subject to random interviews, with only a 24 hour notice, to ensure their eligibility. The bill passed with 64% of the vote. The medical marijuana market in North Dakota is expected to generate $2.3 million. \n\n## Recreational\n\n#### Nevada: Question 2\n\nNevada’s question two sets up a recreational marijuana market in the state, where medical marijuana is already legal. Question 2 defines that tax revenue from cannabis will go towards funding K-12 education in the state. The bill passed with 54% and is expected to produce $621.9 million in the state. \n\n#### Massachusetts: Question 4\n\nQuestion 4 allows for people over 21 in the state to possess 10 ounce of marijuana at home, and one ounce in public. It also allows for the growth of 6 plants per person. The state will levy a 3.75% excise tax on marijuana. The bill passed with 53% of the people in the state voting for it. The recreational market in Massachusetts is expected to generate $1.1 billion dollars. \n\n#### Maine: Question 1\n\nMaine’s Question 1 outlines a legalization, taxation, and regulation process to take place in the state. Revenue from taxation of marijuana in Maine is set to go towards health and schools. Question 1 is known as one of the most progressive recreational marijuana bills and boasts the ability for people over 21 to have up to 12 flowering plants at one time. The bill just barley passed, with only 50.3% of people voting for it, and many opponents are demanding a recount. \n\n#### California: Proposition 64\n\nProbably the most anticipated recreational marijuana bill, [Proposition 64](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57cf68b372d0670007e32abf/california-marijuana-legalization-prop-64) allows for people over 21 to have access to recreational marijuana across the state of California. The bill legalizes the cultivation of marijuana and hemp and has restrictions in place to prevent corporate monopolies. California’s Proposition 64 was controversial in the marijuana friendly state because of the 15% sales tax that will be levied on marijuana, as well as the $9.25 per ounce cultivation tax. The proposition passed in California with 55% of the population voting for it and the recreational marijuana industry in the state is expected to produce a whopping $7.6 billion. \n\n#### One Loss: Arizona’s Proposition 205\n\nArizona’s proposition 205 would have created a market to allow medical marijuana dispensaries in the state to distribute cannabis for recreational purposes. People over 21 in the state could have also grown up to 6 plants and there would have been a 15% tax on cannabis. Despite the loss, Arizona’s medical marijuana market will remain intact. \n\n______________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n\n\n[Image Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/thomashawk/6099430957/in/photolist-ahZbjH-43UB74-9TNUjC-5kBKvM-p7eWqi-6zmZed-cdsHBj-5Gmmcd-8QSbGH-s4CJgn-FcADHn-7ef7u9-9Mp2PX-bMH63H-7HttTW-4MeVgn-5AA9Yp-3RQ5Jg-J6URye-qVasip-59ZRNH-59ZRtz-59ZRGH-59ZS3i-59ZRfx-q8pAwL-5a57Ed-5a576N-aowBTd-53w2Lo-bhFLyK-b4h4Z2-wCmvy-o8z1Xq-8Hz1kw-53w2oj-52WbEF-covMtw-5vNfWh-JyHEE-5kBKPB-575reX-rb4as-vD6uDD-5a57qG-59ZQXZ-59ZR6P-5a57ws-5a55Cd-59ZSnV)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAAOCAIAAACgpqunAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAACjUlEQVQozyWSSUvqYRTG/3qlycqSLAvU0AaLstFyrBtmFM1mE1QUhY2ICpWIOLtwEfgFalltaiEuauPQrvup7k89i5fzvu95nnPOc46gUqmGhoa6u7uz2ez7+/vX11epVPr5+SmXy7+/v/j/qsa1WCweHh7W19c7nc6uri6AAjYwMDA2NpZKpZ6fn8F/fn6+vb29vr5yfnx8FAoFGHO53Pf3t8fjGR4eHh0dbWxsNBgMFbDD4dDpdCKRqKmpqbOzE1aFQtHT01Oj1+v1vb29HR0dcrlcLBafnp5aLBZQk5OTglQqPTk5UavVgGUyWV1dXXt7O6xTU1Nms5kkzc3NlEoYeDAPDw/Hx8c4MzMzArDLy0ulUskdnxa8Xm+t83Q6vb6+PjIyQqkmkwlSYq6vr8PhsFartdvtQltbWyAQ4OQDiunp6Uwmk8/nn56eKA8YZUNBKMmJocyXl5fHx8fV1VUBDjw+6IcOFxYWLi4uEG9ra2t3dxcw9ZMNXSge8MHBAaVtbm4uLS1VssGBVHygEJ0MDg7Ozs7+rVpfXx+db2xsjI+P18Dz8/NGo5HpElNRW1Q1HCRZXFwEDx1CkBMf5P7+vs1ma2hokEgkf6om1KylpYWEFE9CKLe3t10uFypcXV2xDHt7e263++joCDyV0zkT6u/vZ6laW1sFJkwBaEM2kPR5f38fDAY9VQPm9/tvbm5g3NnZIQC65eVlumA0gtVqBXZ7e+vz+UASGolE0IxrNBrFZyVxKOTs7AxpuRI2Nzen0Wgq0ieTybu7u5WVFb5jsRg7QMJEIsG2shLk54V3HPKfn5/TAi9ra2sCO8B4aIaPeDzOJCDmDIVCpGUfyEk0nYPnnUrRn3NiYuI/NUHvICeeIrgAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","aspectRatio":1.4705882352941178,"src":"/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/ee604/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.png","srcSet":"/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/69585/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.png 200w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/497c6/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.png 400w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/ee604/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.png 800w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/4c5c8/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.png 1004w","srcWebp":"/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/58556/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/61e93/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.webp 200w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/1f5c5/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.webp 400w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/58556/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.webp 800w,\n/static/5517417549f665f7d227e26f75b99239/eddbc/3b8cc3281a40a9fa5559df63e1dd8fde.webp 1004w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2234-markdown","title":"Voters in California, Massachusetts and Nevada legalize REC.","slug":"voters-in-california-massachusetts-and-nevada-legalize-rec","content":"Alex Halperin writes a weekly newsletter called '[Weed Week](https://www.weedweek.net/)' which is a Saturday morning newsletter on America's fastest growing and most interesting industry. Leading cannabis executives and advocates appreciate its credibility and evenhanded perspective on the latest in cannabis politics, business, health, criminal justice and culture You can [subscribe to Weed Week here](https://www.weedweek.net/).   \r\n\r\n#### From this Week's Edition: \r\n\r\nVoters in California, Massachusetts and Nevada [legalized](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/09/us/politics/marijuana-legalization.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=first-column-region&region=top-news&WT.nav=top-news) REC. About 25 percent of Americans now live in states that have legalized marijuana for adult use. \r\n\r\nThe results will put unprecedented pressure on the federal government to reform cannabis laws. As President Obama said in a recent interview with comedian Bill Maher, multiple states legalizing could make the federal prohibition “[untenable](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/11/08/medical-marijuana-sails-to-victory-in-florida/).”\r\n\r\nIn a night that was a stunning repudiation of the pollsters' art, the nine marijuana initiatives on state ballots performed more or less as predicted. So far, of the five states that voted on REC, only Arizona, which has a thriving MED market, [rejected it](http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/elections/2016/11/08/arizona-recreational-marijuana-proposition-205-election-results/92893564/), by about four points. As of this writing, with 94% of votes in, Maine’s REC initiative [appears to have the lead](http://www.pressherald.com/2016/11/08/mainers-consider-legalizing-recreational-marijuana/) in a very close race.\r\n\r\nAll four states voting on MED approved it. In Florida, voters [legalized MED](http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/florida-overwhelmingly-votes-to-legalize-medical-marijuana/2302028) with 71% in favor. In Arkansas, a MED initiative has a [comfortable lead](http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/nov/09/state-on-verge-of-approving-medical-pot/) with most precincts reporting. North Dakota’s MED initiative [passed](http://results.sos.nd.gov/resultsSW.aspx?text=BQ&type=SW&map=CTY) with about 64% of the vote and Montana’s Initiative to [expand MED](http://www.nytimes.com/elections/results/montana-ballot-measure-182-expand-medical-marijuana) access also passed comfortably. \r\n\r\nEach of the MED states also voted for [Donald Trump](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/09/us/politics/hillary-clinton-donald-trump-president.html?action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=span-abc-region&region=span-abc-region&WT.nav=span-abc-region), who is now president-elect. \r\n\r\nTrump is a teetotaler who claims to have never drank or used drugs. He has been [consistent in his support](http://fortune.com/2016/07/12/hillary-clinton-donald-trump-marijuana/) for MED, and somewhat [less consistent](http://www.businessinsider.com/where-donald-trump-stands-on-weed-legalization-2016-11), in his support for states’ rights to regulate the plant as they choose.\r\n\r\nMost directly worrisome to the cannabis world is that Trump has surrounded himself with anti-drug hardliners, who are out of step with the country’s, and the Republican Party’s, gradual acceptance of the plant. \r\n\r\nVice-president elect Mike Pence has voted to escalate the war on drugs in Mexico and in 2014, called for [tougher sentences for possession](http://www.ibtimes.com/vice-presidential-debate-marijuana-reform-2016-where-do-tim-kaine-mike-pence-stand-2426351), “I think we need to focus on reducing crime, not reducing penalties,” he said. \r\n\r\nTrump’s closeness to Chris Christie, the New Jersey governor who was the only major Republican candidate to vocally endorse federal marijuana prohibition was also a source of alarm in the marijuana world. \r\n\r\nOf late, Christie has been sidelined due to the “[Bridgegate](http://www.politico.com/states/new-jersey/story/2016/11/in-first-interview-after-bridgegate-convictions-christie-says-hes-not-finished-107150)” trial in which two of his former aides were convicted, and Rudy Giuliani, the former New York City mayor and prosecutor, has emerged as another candidate for attorney general. The last time Giuliani’s position on marijuana has been through much scrutiny was in [2007 during his short-lived presidential campaign](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/giuliani-medical-marijuana-unnecessary/). \"I believe the effort to try and make marijuana available for medical uses is really a way to legalize it,” he said at the time. “ There's no reason for it.\"\r\n\r\nThroughout the campaign, neither Donald Trump nor Hilary Clinton wanted to talk much about pot, but Trump’s election creates the possibility of tensions between a newly emboldened industry and an administration filled with anti-drug hawks. Whether this stand-off will transpire, and what forms it could take, is anyone’s guess.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3157894736842106,"src":"/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/14b42/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/f836f/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg 200w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/2244e/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg 400w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/14b42/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg 800w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/47498/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/30294/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.jpg 1347w","srcWebp":"/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/58556/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/61e93/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp 200w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/1f5c5/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp 400w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/58556/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp 800w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/99238/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp 1200w,\n/static/728c9b8a4b582b111b9323b222573445/76870/65faf1f92087e390cd09e2d1ccae754f.webp 1347w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2133-markdown","title":"Marijuana is Legal in California: What Happens Next?","slug":"marijuana-is-legal-in-california-what-happens-next","content":"### Multiple States Legalize\n\nIn a stunning pro-legalization victory, California voted to legalize marijuana on Tuesday as did Massachusetts Maine and Nevada. Things certainly have changed in the United States, in more ways than one with the passing of this election cycle. Although I am still reaching for my Tums after last night's election. \n\nPrior to yesterday's vote, cannabis was  legal  in Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and Washington, as well as Washington DC. Personally, it did not surprise me that California passed Prop 64 but it has shocked me that Massachusetts, Maine and Nevada legalized cannabis.  More surprisingly, more limited medical marijuana props passed in the conservative states of Arkansas, Florida, Montana and North Dakota. \n\nA Washington Post article  received a quote from Ethan Nadelman, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance. “This represents a monumental victory for the marijuana reform movement. With California’s leadership now, the end of marijuana prohibition nationally, and even internationally, is fast approaching.” Well, that at least, sounds very positive and affirming to me, and I need that this morning.\n\nRELATED: [ABOUT PROP 64: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58099f9b6b40a8000bf0584e/about-prop-64-what-you-should-know)\n\n### What Happens Next\n\nSo, if you're in California, you may be questioning what happens next. Now that we have legalized the recreational use of marijuana, how does this change the way you acquire and consume your cannabis today and in the near future? In the short term, absolutely nothing has changed in how you buy and consume your cannabis. \n\nProp 64 has passed, but over the next year to two years, the regulations that make up the new laws will need to written and approved. After they are approved there will be a progressive roll out, it does not happen all at once. Law makers generally say that all new regulations will be written and approved by January 2018, but many, many more people seem to think that this process may take upwards of two years. It may possibly take even longer for some parts to take effect.\n\n### What You Need to Know\n\nSo, here's what this means for you, for the next year or two at least:\n\n>1. You will still need to have an annual doctor's consultation and a marijuana letter of recommendation in order to purchase cannabis.\n\n>2. During this time, you will still be purchasing your cannabis from a medical marijuana dispensary or delivery service.\n\n>3. Until the laws are rolled out, you may still purchase medical marijuana with a valid doctor's letter of recommendation if you are 18 or older. After the roll out, you will need to be 21 or older.\n\n>4. Cannabis is still federally illegal, and this will not change for the foreseeable future. States that legalize marijuana have no effect on the federal laws.\n\nThe sale of recreational marijuana will begin once all new recreational dispensaries are licensed. This is a huge task at the state level and one of the reasons why this effort will take at least two years to implement. In addition, they will need to iron out how cannabis will be taxed, distributed and regulated. For the near term at least, it is business as usual!\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n\n\n\n\n\n ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/14b42/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/f836f/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg 200w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/2244e/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg 400w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/14b42/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg 800w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/47498/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/54ac5/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/58556/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/61e93/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp 200w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/1f5c5/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp 400w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/58556/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp 800w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/99238/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp 1200w,\n/static/2435f5c0438d17bf9bb25b9cfb8048b3/5e0b8/44b10c3f1df3a9fd05f2f24eeeea85f2.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":24,"numPages":5,"currentPage":3,"id":5436,"name":"Legalization","slug":"legalization","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}