Nothing is more in right now than drugs.
While Republicans and Democrats are constantly tugging back and forth for political control, the movement to legalize marijuana use is propelling forward unimpeded. Both Oregon and Alaska passed ballot measures to legalize marijuana in yesterday’s midterm elections, as did Washington D.C. and the city of South Portland, Maine. Even Guam is getting in on the action, voting yesterday to legalize medical use of marijuana.
Oregon's new law was designed much like those in effect in Colorado and Washington state; it allows for anyone over 21 years old to possess as much as two ounces of weed, and to grow up to six cannabis plants in their house. You can "transfer" one ounce to another person, but aren't allowed to sell it. Perhaps interesting trades are acceptable?
In D.C., it's a little murkier. Because it's technically not a state, Congress is all actually has the power the overrule their laws. Some buzzkilling legislators have already indicated that this is exactly what they're going to attempt to do.
In Alaska, the law allows for persons 21 and over to have an ounce of weed and six cannabis plants, and there will be a state commission that regulates all production and sales.
Naturally, inquiring minds want to know when they can start getting high legally. In Oregon, the law must be implemented by July 1, 2015, although it could happen sooner. In Alaska, the law goes into effect 90 days after the election results have been certified. D.C.'s complicated federal entanglements mean that their law must clear a 30-day Congressional review, which likely won't conclude until some time in February or March.
Like with other groundbreaking legislative movements, it will become increasingly common to see weed legalized as states look to copy the trend setters. One thing is very clear: Charlo Greene has got to feel pretty good about her decision to quit the news business.
[via The Atlantic]
