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RainDog

(28,784 posts)
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:11 PM Jun 2012

Poll: Colorado Wants Marijuana Legalized, Regulated Like Booze and Smokes

http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/drug-law/new-poll-high-support-marijuana-legalization-colorado-61-say-regulate-alcohol-and


A just-released statewide poll by Rasmussen Reports provides strong evidence that Colorado may likely become the first state to re-legalize and regulate the personal use of marijuana this November.

On June 6th, Rasmussen Polling conducted a survey of likely voters in Colorado and found majority support for marijuana legalization. Sixty-one percent of those surveyed supported legalizing marijuana if it were regulated like alcohol and cigarettes. Only 27 percent of respondents are opposed to legalization and 12 percent remain undecided.

This is great news for Amendment 64, a 2012 statewide ballot initiative to end marijuana prohibition and regulate marijuana like alcohol, which will appear on the Colorado ballot this November. Rasmussen’s recent survey shows support shifting upwards from previous polling. In December 2011, Public Policy Polling reported that 49 percent of Coloradan’s believed that marijuana use should be legal versus 40 percent who believed it should remain illegal.

Lately, the mainstream media has caught on to the important role that Amendment 64 will play in this fall’s presidential election. This poll is just further proof of that claim’s validity. During the same time period, Rasmussen polled Colorado voters on their presidential preference and respondents were split, 45 percent for Obama and 45 percent support for Romney. Amendment 64 promises to turn out greater numbers of independent minded and youth voters in November, if either candidate embraced rational marijuana policy reforms, this important battleground state could be theirs to win.


Wow!
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Poll: Colorado Wants Marijuana Legalized, Regulated Like Booze and Smokes (Original Post) RainDog Jun 2012 OP
Go Colorado. limpyhobbler Jun 2012 #1
That could be a possiblity for Democrats RainDog Jun 2012 #2
I think there's actually a good chance that Obama endorses it in the next few months. joshcryer Jun 2012 #7
Really? limpyhobbler Jun 2012 #10
I don't think so because he hasn't laid the groundwork for changing his position RZM Jun 2012 #11
Yeah, but look at how he did DADT. joshcryer Jun 2012 #25
I agree that's a credible path to a new position RZM Jun 2012 #30
Fair enough. For what it's worth, see my sig. joshcryer Jun 2012 #32
really? RainDog Jun 2012 #20
really I don't think he will ThomThom Jun 2012 #36
When do you think it shall be? joshcryer Jun 2012 #37
Nah, Not Till His Girls Are Older otohara Jun 2012 #39
The problem with this is sample motivation. TheWraith Jun 2012 #3
The Democratic party endorsed it and will be pushing it. joshcryer Jun 2012 #6
Compared to the aftermath of Prop 19 in CA RainDog Jun 2012 #14
What has done it is that Colorado was smart, they legalized medical use... joshcryer Jun 2012 #26
Interesting that Amendment 64 beats Obama by 16 points RZM Jun 2012 #4
This is actually why it would be good for Obama to come out in favor of legalization. joshcryer Jun 2012 #8
I'd like that too RZM Jun 2012 #9
I'll bet he does just that,,,come August or jaysunb Jun 2012 #24
Colorado Republicans lean to the Libertarian side IndyPragmatist123 Jun 2012 #41
They need ads that Politicalboi Jun 2012 #5
Yeah? So do I. Zanzoobar Jun 2012 #12
so, you think one in ten americans will end up in prison for mj? RainDog Jun 2012 #15
It depends. Zanzoobar Jun 2012 #61
federalism RainDog Jun 2012 #62
In the mean time the feds do what they want. Zanzoobar Jun 2012 #63
people who want to address injustice face consequences RainDog Jun 2012 #64
I think it's a little different. Zanzoobar Jun 2012 #65
no doubt RainDog Jun 2012 #66
Raindog, I do not doubt your veracity Zanzoobar Jun 2012 #67
what happened with your family member? RainDog Jun 2012 #68
Brace for the special interest campaign against legalization. SunSeeker Jun 2012 #13
If you read the post, upthread RainDog Jun 2012 #22
Adding a link to the CO jury trial RainDog Jun 2012 #16
Thanks RainDog. :) joshcryer Jun 2012 #28
ENTHUSIASTIC K&R Warren DeMontague Jun 2012 #17
You have to get the stoners to go to the polls first. Rain Mcloud Jun 2012 #18
All we need is for this trend to continue: joshcryer Jun 2012 #31
The Stoners? otohara Jun 2012 #40
I don't know about other folks but Rain Mcloud Jun 2012 #43
How About Tokers or Smokers otohara Jun 2012 #52
Have a...... Rain Mcloud Jun 2012 #57
I think anti cannabis laws are a waste DonCoquixote Jun 2012 #19
You know, people can be responsible RainDog Jun 2012 #23
You have heard people say it is harmless DonCoquixote Jun 2012 #49
only if it allows grow your own for personal use nt msongs Jun 2012 #21
Hell, I've been advocating this stance for 33 years.... n/t Ghost in the Machine Jun 2012 #27
I'm a non-smoker. But I find it appalling that Jamaal510 Jun 2012 #29
That's the way power politics work RainDog Jun 2012 #33
Link: Amendment 64 to legalize cannabis in CO RainDog Jun 2012 #34
Link to P2012 thread about the Democratic Party of Colorado endorsing MMJ legalization: joshcryer Jun 2012 #35
Thanks! RainDog Jun 2012 #42
I will vote for legalization Ohio Joe Jun 2012 #38
I agree with Colorado! Spazito Jun 2012 #44
And get rid of the "imaginary" distance. Woody Woodpecker Jun 2012 #45
Or better yet, standardize the "distance" requirements re outlets that sell liquor... Spazito Jun 2012 #46
Agreed. Why single out dispensaries when there are other stores that sell 18+ only stuff? Woody Woodpecker Jun 2012 #47
Kicked and recommended for the great state of Colorado. Uncle Joe Jun 2012 #48
The feds will just threaten to take DiverDave Jun 2012 #50
critical mass RainDog Jun 2012 #51
Here are the ads they ran to get signatures (the site is gone now): joshcryer Jun 2012 #53
thanks! n/t RainDog Jun 2012 #54
Here's the first legalize ad (for recreational use) RainDog Jun 2012 #55
Thanks! I'm not sure I dig that one. joshcryer Jun 2012 #56
why? nt RainDog Jun 2012 #59
I'm sorry! I didn't see your reply! joshcryer Jun 2012 #69
But, honestly, there are various facets to the law RainDog Jun 2012 #72
I like the pro-recreational message, no doubt. joshcryer Jun 2012 #73
This is a step in the right direction towards ending the murderous cartel's monopoly on marijuana.nt AJTheMan Jun 2012 #58
Also - Democratic Senator Wyden included hemp legalization to the ag bill RainDog Jun 2012 #60
I'm glad you pointed that out. I actually read the full bill the other day... joshcryer Jun 2012 #70
link to Wyden video from Wed. June 13th RainDog Jun 2012 #71
Somebody should have issued an executive order instructing the justice department Warren Stupidity Jun 2012 #74
Please, please forgive this kick, but this is important. joshcryer Jul 2012 #75
what the end of prohibition may look like RainDog Jul 2012 #76

limpyhobbler

(8,244 posts)
1. Go Colorado.
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:20 PM
Jun 2012

I wish the political parties would get with the times on this issue. Marijuana is harmless.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
2. That could be a possiblity for Democrats
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:23 PM
Jun 2012

I don't see that happening with Republicans because they have to play to a conservative base - that consistently, it seems, remain "behind the curve" on thinking that moves the nation in better directions.

Democrats have enough liberals who vote with the party to make it valuable for them to do - to get voters to the polls and to address an issue that liberals think needs addressing because of our focus on fairness.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
7. I think there's actually a good chance that Obama endorses it in the next few months.
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:50 PM
Jun 2012

I know that people will probably mock me for saying this, but Obama does what the polls do. As it stands now the majority of American's are for marijuana legalization.

limpyhobbler

(8,244 posts)
10. Really?
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:08 AM
Jun 2012

Well if he does you get mad points for predicting it first.

I will personally be really very happy if that happens.

 

RZM

(8,556 posts)
11. I don't think so because he hasn't laid the groundwork for changing his position
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:15 AM
Jun 2012

I think he had his marriage equality journey plotted out from the very beginning, hence 'evolving.' At the end of that process he could say: 'Ok folks. I've told you this whole time that I'm evolving. Well, I've finally evolved.'

But I haven't seen any such preparation here. This would look like a total flip-flop and take away a vital contrast with the Mittster, who is well known for changing his positions. From now until November Obama is going to have to look consistent in order to maximize his ability to call Mitt a flip-flopper.

After November, I'd say the chances of this go up.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
25. Yeah, but look at how he did DADT.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:41 AM
Jun 2012

DADT was precondtioned on a "study" to tell if "integration" would be "OK." This is a very careful and purposeful move, and it pissed off a lot of liberals (especially here on DU). But for Obama is was extremely careful, and effectively a large trial balloon.

He could make the same basic statement on marijuana. "I would propose that we study the feasibility of decriminalization" and "I personally believe that marijuana in itself does not belong in schedule I status and that it should be rather a controlled substance."

 

RZM

(8,556 posts)
30. I agree that's a credible path to a new position
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:54 AM
Jun 2012

I just don't think he'll do it while running against Flippy McFloppenson.

Second term, maybe.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
32. Fair enough. For what it's worth, see my sig.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:57 AM
Jun 2012

Last edited Tue Jun 12, 2012, 08:10 AM - Edit history (1)

I'd be actually shocked if he didn't make measures to at least study it so he could "evolve" after re-elected.

edit: 12+ hours later: to clarify, I mean that I would be shocked that after reelection he didn't come out for it. Let's be honest, Obama the person is probably a shitload more liberal than Obama the president, he just plays the political game, because that's simply what he's forced to do.

Frankly I find it difficult to believe that Obama, the man, doesn't understand and empathize with 100% liberalism. He just has to play the corrupt political game to stay in power. This is much more true as a black man.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
20. really?
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:09 AM
Jun 2012

I don't see that happening.

I think the states will do this without any endorsement from the federal govt.

I DO think state-level Democrats are seeing gains in some places - and that's why they're not afraid to make it an issue.

but the federal govt, to me, seems like a partially-decomposed dinosaur. more pressure and it will become something useful.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
37. When do you think it shall be?
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 08:07 AM
Jun 2012

The President is only but one hand of the federal hand, I think he can come out for it in a "wishy-washy" sort of way (one that neither says he's for it but it against it at the same time, kinda like gay marriage). In that vein I think he can and will do it.

Hey, I'm probably wrong, but it's just something I'm predicting, since polls put legalization ahead and all.

 

otohara

(24,135 posts)
39. Nah, Not Till His Girls Are Older
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 10:53 AM
Jun 2012

the teachers at that fancy school would flip out.

I speak from experience....

TheWraith

(24,331 posts)
3. The problem with this is sample motivation.
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:24 PM
Jun 2012

In other words, even if you assume that the poll is completely accurate (and polls often vary), the 27% who oppose it are the hardest core who have more of an incentive to show up at the polls than do the 61% who support it. Hopefully it'll pass, but if it doesn't, one has to understand why.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
6. The Democratic party endorsed it and will be pushing it.
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:49 PM
Jun 2012

So if Obama wins Colorado then Colorado will be regulating marijuana like alcohol.

Already dispensaries have basically inundated the entire state, Coloradoans are quite used to it. Even the fundy Colorado Springs has them every couple of blocks.

The best thing about it is that a lot of mom and pops are selling that "bath salts" shit which is just toxic nastiness. People buy it because they have to jump through hoops to get medical marijuana, so it's just a bit easier. If marijuana was regulated like alcohol then people would be buying pot instead of those crap "bath salts" (or "incense" which is a synthetic THC-like crap that doesn't qualify for THC and fucks people up).

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
14. Compared to the aftermath of Prop 19 in CA
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:24 AM
Jun 2012

This looks pretty impressive - and CO seems to have a very active pro-legalization organization. They also have more libertarians in their Republican mix, so even those who are fiscally conservative may break on this one issue.

Before the legalization vote in CA, polls never showed this much support.

After the vote - some who opposed it opposed it because of the way the bill was written, but not the proposition behind it.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/11/despite-rejecting-proposition-19-post-election-poll-finds-californians-still-lean-toward-legalizing-.html

...a post-election poll found that they still lean toward legalizing marijuana for recreational use and, if young voters had turned out as heavily on Tuesday as they do for presidential elections, the result would have been a close call.

The survey, conducted by the polling firm Greenberg Quinlan Rosner, suggests that California voters had qualms with this initiative, but remain open to the idea. A majority, 52%, said marijuana laws, like alcohol prohibition, do more harm than good.

Voters think marijuana should be legalized, 49% to 41%, with 10% uncertain (from the after vote poll)


here's the poll from 2011 - http://www.greenbergresearch.com/index.php?ID=2538

So, this 61% in CO is pretty impressive - and more than California came up with prior to the election. I think the biggest number there, before the election, was 54% in favor.

HOWEVER, yes, it's important for people to VOTE. Since this is a presidential election year, voter turnout should also favor legalization.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
26. What has done it is that Colorado was smart, they legalized medical use...
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:45 AM
Jun 2012

...and there was a really big campaign to push for dispensaries everywhere. Many of the cities opened up the dispensaries right in the middle of the Great Recession, and without a doubt the well needed money fueled the cities and did not contribute to any significant rise in violent crime (there is a correlation with dispensaries and break-ins, but that's because the drug still has a street value, make it like cigarettes or alcohol and sure you will still have break-ins, but they will be fewer).

 

RZM

(8,556 posts)
4. Interesting that Amendment 64 beats Obama by 16 points
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:29 PM
Jun 2012

That's actually a really good sign, because it shows that support for reforming marijuana crosses party and ideological lines.

I do think that this gap will narrow before election day. Obama will open up a lead over Mitt and polls on Amendment 64 might get a bit closer. But if the amendment wins by a higher margin than Obama does, that will be a clear signal that we're moving in the right direction on drug laws.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
8. This is actually why it would be good for Obama to come out in favor of legalization.
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:52 PM
Jun 2012

Already a majority of Americans believe marijuana should be legalized, and in swing states like Colorado it's a winning issue.

Would love for Obama to come to Colorado and announce his support for marijuana legalization. He can even do the wishy washy "if states legalized it" thing.

 

RZM

(8,556 posts)
9. I'd like that too
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:03 AM
Jun 2012

Though he seems to believe that he needs to go in the opposite direction.

We need some real leadership on this issue. Even if it's just a wishy-washy statement, it still matters. I'd love to get him on the record saying something sympathetic to decriminalizing marijuana.

41. Colorado Republicans lean to the Libertarian side
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 11:22 AM
Jun 2012

I posted this in another thread as well. Colorado probably has the most Libertarians in the country. Not the "we should get rid of all government" type, more of the "let the government regulate what is important, but leave me alone on personal matters" type (I guess, more "moderate" Libertarians).

I had said for years that Colorado was going to be the first state to legalize marijuana and to elect a third party candidate to major office. The Libertarian leaning Republicans are what is keeping this positive. I would imagine that vast majority of Democrats and independents are in favor of this (of course, not all), and the Libertarian leaning Republicans are providing the extra push to keep it popular. Because of this, you aren't seeing the neo-cons and religious types within the Republican party making too much noise. They don't want to offend the many Republicans that are in favor of legalization and regulation. Who knows, maybe drug policy is what helps bring the Republicans back from Crazytown.

 

Politicalboi

(15,189 posts)
5. They need ads that
Mon Jun 11, 2012, 11:33 PM
Jun 2012

Show the medical benefits, and ads that show how your child's life can be turned upside down over one bust of possession of weed. If your kids a stoner and has nothing going for them now, just imagine a record to go with it.

 

Zanzoobar

(894 posts)
12. Yeah? So do I.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:21 AM
Jun 2012

That doesn't mean the Feds won't pinch me. Sadly, a whole bunch of people have and will go to jail because states make laws contrary to federal law. States have and will continue to send their ignorant unwashed massed right into federal slammers.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
15. so, you think one in ten americans will end up in prison for mj?
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:38 AM
Jun 2012

I don't.

They don't now, though those are the numbers for people who used mj in one context or another last year, according to the govt data.

What happens now is this law is used against minority groups - the law is applied selectively.

What these various political actions do at the state level is force the federal govt to have a conversation they don't want to have - because the outcome is going to be at least federal decriminalization.

 

Zanzoobar

(894 posts)
61. It depends.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 11:41 PM
Jun 2012

It cannot be disputed that the feds run the game.

It will be up to them how many will be imprisoned in federal pens because state laws disregards higher authority.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
62. federalism
Wed Jun 13, 2012, 12:21 PM
Jun 2012

even though the federal law does not allow legal cannabis - that law can be challenged - and is - and, frankly, b/c of the way it was written - it deserves to be challenged.

the states regulate intrastate commerce.

For fifteen years now more than one state has regulated medical marijuana - and the federal govt has not been able to stop this, even tho they interfere from time to time.

The people in various states have already told the federal govt that their law and their authority about this situation is based upon lies and is, therefore, unjust and not worth following.

This only happened because the federal govt is so beholden to special interests that its officers cannot function to act in the best interests of voters.

this is a clash between state and federal powers - and, frankly, the American people are on the side of those states that are changing the law.

When bad law is allowed to stand - this is what happens.


RainDog

(28,784 posts)
64. people who want to address injustice face consequences
Wed Jun 13, 2012, 03:02 PM
Jun 2012

but with Forbes writing about the marketplace that is demanding to be allowed - not just for marijuana, but also for hemp - I just think people are willing to confront the feds on this - as we see.

With the recent jury nullification in CO, with polls that show Americans' attitudes toward this issue - the drug warriors lost this war.

Now they're like the guys in the jungles of some island who don't know they lost the war and they keep taking out random people who try to let them know it's time to admit defeat.

 

Zanzoobar

(894 posts)
65. I think it's a little different.
Wed Jun 13, 2012, 07:32 PM
Jun 2012

I'm not saying they're right. I'm saying you can't predict what they'll do, but since they have the guns, the money, the law and the jails on their side, and they've already shown numerous times they're going to use them for enforcement regarding this issue, they're probably prepared to use them again. The states and the people can confront them all they want. Watch your ass.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
66. no doubt
Wed Jun 13, 2012, 11:43 PM
Jun 2012

when things change - there's all kinds of weirdness.

as far as me watching my ass - this is the funny thing - one reason I post about this issue is that I don't really have a stake in it at this time. I'm not "connected" - though I could be if I wanted to be - b/c mj is so prevalent in our culture. I not involved in illegal activity - okay, occasionally I probably do go over the speed limit accidentally - but not on purpose. I'm definitely partisan - but that's because I don't want to break the law if I get a migraine but, b/c I had a compassionate friend - I found out that's the best sort of treatment for migraines for me.

I don't see why I cannot choose mj rather than a pharma drug - b/c mj is better. But I don't want to be illegal so that constrains my choice. That simple issue is so wrong on the face of it - why should I, as a law abiding citizen, have to constrain my choice? There's no logic to it. Or why should someone with epilepsy have to feel like a criminal to treat seizures in the way that works best for them? Or why should someone who is undergoing chemo have to break the law to avoid puking her guts out?

I'm a mom and I've done research for one reason or another all my adult life. I like it. I'm trained as a librarian and I've written professionally for various mediums/genres. This topic is interesting to me b/c it's a moment of social change and b/c I've always liked gardening and biological sciences. I like to learn things, even if I'm not gonna use them... I'm a geek that way. I just post about this on DU for free for my own learning experience and, hopefully, to provide info to others.

My kids don't use mj - one of them doesn't drink, either (he's high-functioning autistic.) I know my other son doesn't because he just got an internship and had to do a hair sample drug test - which goes back much further than a urine test to indicate drug use.

No one would consider me a stoner irl - because I'm not.

I bet I'm like a lot of other people who are tired of the way our govt. has handled this issue. It's so unjust - and it bothers me to know that an African American child faces far harsher consequences for something than a white suburban kid - even though they're doing the exact same thing - that's where the mom part comes in.

take care!

 

Zanzoobar

(894 posts)
67. Raindog, I do not doubt your veracity
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 12:47 AM
Jun 2012

A member of my family spent two years in a federal lockup because of conflicting federal and state law.

I believe she didn't understand the difference between the two. This is why I disagree with the approach. If you wish to take on the feds, do it on the federal level. State approbation of activity clearly illegal under federal law can be, and in this case was, harmful.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
68. what happened with your family member?
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 01:00 AM
Jun 2012

I'm sorry to hear this happened to her.

How did she get in that situation?

SunSeeker

(51,299 posts)
13. Brace for the special interest campaign against legalization.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:22 AM
Jun 2012

Pot legalization had majority support in CA too...until the special interest who make money off pot criminalization (private prisons, local law enforcement who get war on drugs money for pot busts) started campaigning against it.

That and the refusal of youth to get up and go to the polls killed Prop. 19. It lost by double digits.
http://articles.latimes.com/2010/nov/03/local/la-me-pot-20101103-1

Hopefully CO's stoners aren't as lazy as CA's.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
22. If you read the post, upthread
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:13 AM
Jun 2012

about the aftermath of the CA vote - some people didn't like that particular proposition, but were for legalization.

but, yes, the beer lobby and the police lobby went after prop 19.

Presidential election years draw more voters, stoner or not, so the turn out will be better this year for that simple reason.

 

Rain Mcloud

(812 posts)
18. You have to get the stoners to go to the polls first.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 12:55 AM
Jun 2012

Personally,i think it's a fine idea.
It would solve a lot of major problems while creating very few foreseeable ones.
However time and again we have seen this sort of thing(which should be a no brainer)go down to defeat because people are tired of hearing the negative bullshit and don't want to be a part of a corporate induced non existent problem and don't go to the polls.

The for profit prisons,alcohol and faith industries are just too strong into lobby's for a grassroots(pun intended) movement to get any support from legislators.

I'll make a prediction here,that if it passes then other states will fall over themselves to put this on the ballot when the tax figures start rolling in.
Then the legislature gets to be heroes without taking any blame since it was mandated by the people,they'll damn sure take credit though. Hide and watch.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
31. All we need is for this trend to continue:
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:55 AM
Jun 2012

year - voting population - votes - turnout percent
2008 231,229,580 132,618,580 56.8
2004 221,256,931 122,294,978 55.3
2000 205,815,000 105,586,274 51.3
1996 196,511,000 096,456,345 49.1
1992 189,529,000 104,405,155 55.1

We'll see if it does or if it declines.

 

Rain Mcloud

(812 posts)
43. I don't know about other folks but
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:31 PM
Jun 2012

to me a drunk is someone who has to have alcohol or they are going to be very sick.
An alcoholic is someone who is perpetually trying to quit drinking.
I wish i had back the neurons that i shot on alcohol over my career,i was lucky,i was able to stop.
I wish i had back all the money,friends,relationships and talent that i squandered on booze.
Other folks are not so fortunate and some eventually die.
It's not funny,it's a travesty.

Calling someone who uses marijuana a stoner is an easy handle,i did not mean it as a put down.
Alcohol and marijuana are so dissimilar that comparing the two is like Apples and Eggs.
Do You know anyone who has died from smoking too much pot? Or been made seriously ill?
I have not known or heard of any people suffering because of weed,in fact some of the kindest and caring people that i have ever known are stoner's.

I think our world leader's should all use it,Native American Style,when doing their summits.
The world would be a much more hospitable and pleasant place to live in,listening to other leaders with the heart instead of a jaundiced stink eye.
So i would ask that you consider the handle "stoner" is used as a term of endearment.
You have to admit that it goes better than REEFER ADDICT which we know is impossible.

Peace.

DonCoquixote

(13,615 posts)
19. I think anti cannabis laws are a waste
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:08 AM
Jun 2012

I Personally look froward to the day when teenagers think smoking weed is stupid, because that's what we would be making t-shirts and diesel out of.

That being said, when people speak of it like it was some harmless little herb, I laugh, and cry. If your busdriver ate Garlic bread for lunch, he or she would drive much better than if they had a Marijuana brownie for lunch.

But I suppose it is time for Marijuana to join Oxy on the list of "evil but legal."

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
23. You know, people can be responsible
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:20 AM
Jun 2012

without something being illegal. they can also be irresponsible when something is illegal.

CO has already been working on its DUI measures for cannabis.

Marijuana is evil?

interesting pov. nothing factual, but interesting.

public service campaigns that are based upon fact, not fear, are good ways to educate and urge the public to be responsible.

DonCoquixote

(13,615 posts)
49. You have heard people say it is harmless
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 02:04 PM
Jun 2012

say it is just another herb.

Now, if they have DUI for cannabis, it means someone has acknowledged that fact and actually worked out a system for people to be responsible, kudos
but you also know there are those who will claim they can drive just fine on the stuff, as several old threads on here proclaimed.

Jamaal510

(10,893 posts)
29. I'm a non-smoker. But I find it appalling that
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:50 AM
Jun 2012

a small number of interest groups such as tobacco, alcohol, and the prison industry get to have so much say-so in MJ remaining illegal, despite the majority of our population now supporting legalization. We all know he used to smoke it in his younger years, and I believe that deep down the president does support legalization, but something is definitely amiss.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
33. That's the way power politics work
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 03:01 AM
Jun 2012

Unfortunately, the nation we get is the nation we demand - and, even then, justice on the most basic issues takes too long.

When a lot of money is involved - people are corrupt and corruptible.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
35. Link to P2012 thread about the Democratic Party of Colorado endorsing MMJ legalization:
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 05:22 AM
Jun 2012
http://www.democraticunderground.com/125130101

Thought I'd throw that here for those interested.

I also added links to this thread and the acquittal thread in that thread. Just for basic informational purposes.

Ohio Joe

(21,607 posts)
38. I will vote for legalization
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 08:42 AM
Jun 2012

I'm all registered to vote and I am all for legalization. I think this will be a great step in the direction of getting this done in every state... Though I expect it will be a while before that gets done.

Spazito

(49,523 posts)
44. I agree with Colorado!
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:37 PM
Jun 2012

Legalize it, regulate it, tax it, put the same restrictions, health and safety regs on commercial growers and distributors as are on alcohol and cigarettes. Just as one can home brew alcohol for personal consumption, one should be able to grow marijuana for one's own use, a limited amount, but cannot sell it.

 

Woody Woodpecker

(562 posts)
45. And get rid of the "imaginary" distance.
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:39 PM
Jun 2012

1k feet away from school zones is bullshit when there's a liquor store literally feet away from a nearby school.

Spazito

(49,523 posts)
46. Or better yet, standardize the "distance" requirements re outlets that sell liquor...
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:45 PM
Jun 2012

and, hopefully, marijuana, cigarettes, sex stores, adult video stores, etc. Make a set distance requirement that is required for all of them.

I think having a distance requirement is acceptable when it comes to schools and is not an onerous requirement to my mind.

 

Woody Woodpecker

(562 posts)
47. Agreed. Why single out dispensaries when there are other stores that sell 18+ only stuff?
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 01:47 PM
Jun 2012

I view that discriminatory and unfair.

I would say about 250 feet from any school would be fair to all.

BTW - I met Cashy - the 4 year old MMJ patient. He's been cancer-free for nearly a year using nothing but cannabis oil, and that is the same treatment that Tommy Chong plans to go through.

DiverDave

(4,869 posts)
50. The feds will just threaten to take
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 02:50 PM
Jun 2012

all the money that they send to Colorado.

AND, they will send in swat teams to bust everyone.

Gotta keep the prisons full, you know...

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
51. critical mass
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 03:22 PM
Jun 2012

I think we've reached a tipping point in American's opinion about this issue - and the feds cannot stop what is happening, no matter how much they want to do so.

The Colorado Democratic Party has endorsed this legalization vote.

When CA had Prop 19 on the ballot, major organizations and influential individuals supported the measure. Even though it did not pass, people saw these others on record in support of a major change in the law.

17 states have mmj laws on the books and others have laws pending - this is one-third of the states - the combined populations of those states, and those in other states who support this issue has reached the point at which the feds cannot arrest their way to compliance with what the majority perceives as bad law.

No doubt there may be push back - all this does is generate hostility toward the political group that does so. Democrats at the federal level would be STUPID to do this because their base OVERWHELMINGLY does not support such action.

For more than a decade, more than 70% of the population has favored legal medical mj - now polls indicate a majority who favor total legalization.

People will go from annoyed to ANGRY that this govt is willing to waste money arresting people for something that the majority views as no worse than alcohol.

Prohibition simply doesn't work. It's amazing that the feds have to relearn this lesson - but, apparently, they do - because some people make a lot of money enforcing laws that people don't want.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
53. Here are the ads they ran to get signatures (the site is gone now):
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 04:58 PM
Jun 2012


Another one:



There's a billboard out now and I expect much more to happen as it comes closer:



Those ads were really really good.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
69. I'm sorry! I didn't see your reply!
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 03:36 AM
Jun 2012

It got buried in other replies in My Posts.

Anyway, I think that it sends a "irresponsible youth" message. Yes, arguably "everyone" gets drunk in college and whatnot, but it's still frown-on-able.

I think it would be better to stick with the Legalize Responsibly messaging, as opposed to a consumption self-determination message.

The young woman is effectively admitting to breaking the law.

edit: to clarify, I think it would've been better for her to say, "I have a prescription for marijuana because I can't sleep some nights because of my difficult job," etc. "and it doesn't leave me with a hangover like all of those college level binges." I'm still glad it's out there, mind you, just think it needs to send the responsibility message better.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
72. But, honestly, there are various facets to the law
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 05:33 AM
Jun 2012

the billboard in CO and this ad say - it's safer than alcohol and I'm not a bad person to prefer one over the other in a social situation.

it also points to a BIG issue for young women - which is being taken advantage of when someone is too drunk to know what she's doing. I don't encourage anyone to do something to excess - but I live in a college town that's a lot like Boulder in many ways - and acquaintance rape on campus is a problem - and its generally related to alcohol consumption - at frat houses, at least where I am.

then there is the medical issue and the real life-changing issues from that one.

then there's the hemp issue - which has nothing to do with the sort of cannabis for either of the above.

So, ideally, someone would make a commercial for each reason - then, as the election nears, someone could edit the three into one commercial.

I don't think recreational use should "hide" behind medical use - cannabis is safer than alcohol. People, esp. people between 21 and 35, use substances like alcohol in social settings - the general trend is that recreational usage falls or drops off entirely when people have kids and more responsibility at work - though it doesn't stop - I think it's good to recognize that people go through stages - don't pretend young adults don't grease the social wheels sometimes (tho the effects are really different, imo, b/t alcohol and cannabis.)

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
73. I like the pro-recreational message, no doubt.
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 06:45 AM
Jun 2012

I just think that a lot of traction gained was the "responsibility" message that was being sent. Most people know that a lot of people do marijuana, but they were more affected, in my opinion by the whole "people will do it anyway, let's legalize it and regulate it," message.

I would be more for that ad if that young woman actually talked about the negative impacts of alcohol as your post expresses, but she doesn't do that. She just says she "drank a lot." Then there are those PSA's that were on the air awhile ago trying to correlate date rape with marijuana (I looked in vein but I can't find that PSA, it was completely messed up and unrealistic). So I don't know how well that would sell.

I do appreciate that in 30 seconds they didn't have much time to relate the overall message, and they tried very effectively to make the case that the drug isn't as bad as alcohol. I haven't seen it on air here yet, I don't know if it's playing over the public airways. It's unclear to me that it could even be played on the public airwaves since it tries to make a subjective statement about the high you get (could be considered advertising for the drug, which I am not sure the stations in this town would allow). If it is on the airwaves, awesome, just haven't see it here in the Springs.

Note: there are regular ads about "alternative medicine" on the airwaves here. There are stores here that aren't ambiguous that they sell pot, they just don't mention it explicitly. There's one TV ad where two very pretty young women (not models, average looking but pretty women) are talking about their new store and there's a lot of "green" and psychedelic imagery. It's amazing. When I saw that I was blown away. We're really moving forward.

RainDog

(28,784 posts)
60. Also - Democratic Senator Wyden included hemp legalization to the ag bill
Tue Jun 12, 2012, 08:21 PM
Jun 2012

this is from last week, but pertinent to this issue as well, even tho hemp has no noticeable psychoactive qualities. As one person in the Forbes article noted - outlawing hemp because of marijuana is like outlawing all mushrooms because of psilocybin - we don't do that because we're not that stupid - well, sometimes.

I posted a thread about this previously here (you can find it via my journal if you want to read that one, or find the link here:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002784542

Here's another take:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/alisongriswold/2012/06/08/senator-moves-to-legalize-cannabis-production-for-hemp/


Hemp is a variety of Cannabis sativa, the same plant species that yields marijuana, and is illegal to grow in the United States under federal law. But that legislation has long drawn contention from hemp advocates, who point to the health and sustainability advantages of the industrial plant, and note that its genetic and chemical traits differ from those of the Cannabis sativa drug varieties. Their case gained additional footing Thursday when U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon proposed an amendment to the Farm Bill that would exclude industrial hemp from the definition of marijuana, allowing American farmers to grow the plant legally for the first time since 1957. The introduction of the proposed amendment comes as activists nationwide have already rallied to generate support for hemp and educate the public about its properties as part of the third annual Hemp History Week.

The 2010 U.S. retail market for hemp products was estimated at $419 million, and was on track to increase to roughly $450 million for 2011, said Tom Murphy, national outreach coordinator of Vote Hemp and spokesperson for the Hemp Industries Association. Some estimates put the global market for hemp at more than 25,000 products – including fabrics, paper, insulation materials, foods, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, according to a Congressional Research Service report released in January. In Canada, where farmers can legally cultivate hemp, acreage devoted to the crop roughly doubled between 2011 and 2012.

...The cultivation and research use of industrial hemp is allowed in nine states – including Maine, North Dakota, Oregon and Vermont – but those efforts remain hampered by the federal ban on growing hemp. In North Dakota, for example, cultivating industrial hemp is legal under state law, but federal agents could charge farmers with years of imprisonment or property forfeiture for growing the crop.

Once grown by the likes of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, industrial hemp was a staple crop during the colonial era and the market for hemp has experienced a resurgence in the United States over the past two decades. Hemp can be cultivated for its seeds, fiber, oil and other byproducts, which have a variety of uses. Roulac said hemp seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, while its fibers are “ideal” for constructing houses, as material made of hemp is energy efficient, resistant to fire and insects, and more durable than wood. He added that legalizing hemp cultivation would have the additional benefit of job creation.


“We’re turning the hemp sector into a billion dollar industry, and guess what?” Roulac said. “The market place is voting.”

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
70. I'm glad you pointed that out. I actually read the full bill the other day...
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 03:39 AM
Jun 2012

...and that really stood out to me.

 

Warren Stupidity

(48,181 posts)
74. Somebody should have issued an executive order instructing the justice department
Thu Jun 14, 2012, 07:16 AM
Jun 2012

To not interfere with state decriminalization and regulation of marijuana. Somebody still could. Dare to struggle dare to win.

joshcryer

(62,265 posts)
75. Please, please forgive this kick, but this is important.
Sun Jul 15, 2012, 04:00 AM
Jul 2012

Thanks, sorry for the month old resurrection. Better than bitter "he said she said" kicks, right?

Again, sorry. But you have to see this.

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