NORML Blog

"These audio recordings reinforce the fact that the federal government's decision to strictly criminalize marijuana was primarily a political one," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. The post Newly Uncovered Nixon Audio: Marijuana Isn’t &

"Many older adults struggle with pain, anxiety, restless sleep, and other conditions for which cannabis products often mitigate. Many older adults are also well aware of the litany of serious adverse side-effects associated with available prescription

"At a time when voters are historically divided, ending America's failed marijuana policies is one issue that Americans largely agree on." The post Trump Reiterates Support for Florida's Amendment 3, Says He Will Work With Congress to Advance Federal Refo

Nearly 40 years ago, advocates made the case to the DEA's own judge that cannabis did not meet the definition of a Schedule I controlled substance. Their case is exponentially stronger now. The post NORML Op-Ed: DEA's Marijuana Hearing Is a Good Opportuni

Statewide polling indicates that between 70 percent and 80 percent of Nebraskans support legalizing medical marijuana access. The post Nebraska: Voters To Decide on Medical Cannabis Access Measures appeared first on NORML.

Justices determined, "Marijuana user or not, [the defendant] is a member of our political community and thus has a presumptive right to bear arms. By infringing on that right, 922(g)(3) contradicts the Second Amendment's plain text." The post Federal Appe

There's no doubt that the outcomes of this coming election will have major implications for the future of marijuana policy reform. The post Marijuana Is on the Ballot This November appeared first on NORML.

The hearing is scheduled to commence on Monday, December 2, 2024. The post DEA Administrator Announces Intent To Hold Hearing on Marijuana's Scheduling appeared first on NORML.

Those wedded to the status quo of cannabis criminalization have long warned that legalizing the marijuana market will result in increased adolescent use. But 10 years following the first states' decisions to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis sales,

"In jurisdictions where state lawmakers remain resistant to repealing outdated and overly punitive marijuana possession laws, petitioning for these sort of local changes is a viable way to provide immediate relief to thousands of consumers who would other

In Congress, far too many politicians remain wed to the sort of "Reefer Madness" view that most voters have long since abandoned. Like Harris did, they also need to evolve their views on cannabis to more closely align with current scientific and public co

"Legalizing and regulating adult-use cannabis access is not only good policy, but it's also good politics. State and federal politicians who continue to ignore their constituents' sentiments on these issues do so at their own political peril." The post Po

"There appears to be no rational explanation for why the state of Missouri would dramatically increase the amount of a very toxic substance in legal cannabis products when none of it whatsoever should be present in them." The post Missouri: NORML Affiliat

North Dakota voters will decide on Election Day whether to approve a citizens' initiated ballot measure legalizing the use, home cultivation, and retail sale of cannabis. The post North Dakota: Marijuana Legalization Measure Will Appear on November Ballot

Summer '24 Intern Jack Kenyon shares his experience with the NORML Legal Internship program. The post Reflecting on My Legal Internship With NORML appeared first on NORML.

The percentage of high-schoolers who identify as current consumers of cannabis fell 26 percent between 2013 and 2023. The post CDC Data Highlights Sustained Decline in Youth Marijuana Use appeared first on NORML.

Physicians already possess the discretion to prescribe any number of medications, like opioids, which pose far greater risks to health than marijuana. It is appropriate that health care providers possess the same freedom to make medical cannabis-related d

"Retailers provide consumers with the option of obtaining lab-tested products in a safe, regulated environment. The sooner consumers have market access to cannabis products, the more quickly we will begin to see disruptions to the unregulated marketplace.

The NSDUH data reports that the percentage of those ages 12 to 17 who reported having ever tried marijuana fell 18 percent from 2014 to 2023. Those reporting having consumed cannabis during the past year fell 15 percent. The percentage of teens reporting

Voters in the cities of Bastrop, Dallas, and Lockhart are expected to vote this November on municipal ballot measures halting most low-level marijuana arrests.

"These findings highlight the need for proper regulatory oversight of cannabinoid-containing products to ensure quality assurance and deter misleading or unfounded health claims in product marketing," the study's authors concluded.

"Prevalence of cannabis use did not change among youth over time," the study's authors concluded.

The proposed ordinance states: "The City's policy shall be to make enforcement of Class A and Class B misdemeanor marijuana possession its lowest enforcement priority. The City shall update its relevant policies to ensure that public safety resources are

Summer '24 Intern Zach Kaplan shares his reasons for joining the NORML Internship program. The post I’m Interning With NORML To Help Undo Harmful Policies appeared first on NORML.

"Nurses have long known through their own first hand experience working with patients that cannabis holds legitimate therapeutic value. That is why, historically, nurses and nursing groups have been among some of the strongest and most outspoken advocates

"Although the HHS is not recommending descheduling at this time, NORML asserts that this position is the most appropriate one and that descheduling cannabis should be adopted by future administrations." The post NORML Submits Public Comments to DEA Callin

Summer '24 Intern Sydney Scott shares her reasons for joining the NORML Legal Internship program. The post I'm Interning With NORML To Help End the Stigma Against Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

If certified for the ballot and approved by voters in November, all three measures will prohibit local law enforcement from making low-level marijuana-related arrests. The post Texas: Activists Turn in Signatures To Place Local Depenalization Initiatives

Cannabis reform advocates in Arkansas, Nebraska, and North Dakota have turned in signatures to place citizens'-initiated measures on the 2024 ballot. The post Advocates Turn in Signatures for Marijuana-Specific Ballot Measures in Three More States appeare

RAW's generous donation will amplify NORML's efforts to facilitate the expungement of criminal cannabis convictions, end the collateral consequences of prohibition, and ensure equal access to cannabis for all. The post RAW Rolling Papers Donates $50,000 t

That's why we won't rest until we have liberated cannabis consumers and patients nationwide. The post NORML Stands for Cannabis Freedom Today and Every Day appeared first on NORML.

Summer '24 Intern Noah Bass shares his reasons for joining the NORML Internship program. The post Interning with NORML: A Door to a Lifetime of Advocacy appeared first on NORML.

"These surveys' findings offer support for the notion that, in some instances, cannabis can act as an intervention for certain persons seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption." The post Surveys: Many Consumers Report Drinking Less Alcohol Following Ch

"State law already recognizes that no one should be in jail for possessing small amounts of marijuana; this new law similarly recognizes that no one should be in jail for possessing marijuana paraphernalia." The post Louisiana: Governor Signs Legislation

"Governors and lawmakers around the country are taking steps to right the past wrongs of cannabis criminalization. It's a shame to see Louisiana's Governor taking the state in a different direction." The post Louisiana: Governor Vetoes Bill Facilitating E

Moore's pardon action automatically forgives every misdemeanor marijuana possession charge the Maryland judiciary can locate in the state's electronic court records system, along with every misdemeanor paraphernalia charge tied to use or possession of mar

Summer '24 Intern Jack Kenyon shares his reasons for joining the NORML Legal Internship program. The post I'm Interning at NORML To Learn How To Change the Legal System appeared first on NORML.

"For the foreseeable future, New Hampshire will remain an island of cannabis prohibition." The post New Hampshire: House Lawmakers Narrowly Defeat Bill Legalizing Marijuana Possession, Sales appeared first on NORML.

 Investigators determined, "Secondhand harms from others' alcohol use were substantially more prevalent than those from others' use of any other drug." The post Study: Americans Far More Likely To Report Secondhand Harms From Alcohol Than From Cannabis

"He was a principled man and a scholar who was committed to promoting the concept of individual liberty and who was at the forefront of the modern effort to dismantle the so-called 'war on drugs.'" The post NORML Remembers David Boaz appeared first on NOR

Both bills await action from Republican Gov. Jeff Landry legislation. If the Governor fails to take action on the bills within ten days of them being transmitted, they will automatically become law. The post Louisiana: Lawmakers Send Governor Bills to De

November's vote will mark the third time since 2020 that South Dakotans have weighed in on the issue. The post South Dakota: Voters Will Decide on Marijuana Possession Measure This Fall appeared first on NORML.

The new law provides discretion to physicians to issue medical cannabis recommendations to any patient who may benefit from it. It also allows those ages 65 or older to self-certify for a registration card absent a doctor's recommendation. The post Delaw

New Hampshire is the only New England state that currently prohibits adult-use cannabis sales. The post New Hampshire: Senate Approves Legislation Regulating Marijuana Sales appeared first on NORML.

As a first step forward, this policy change dramatically shifts the political debate surrounding cannabis.  The post NORML Op-Ed: The Beginning of the End of Cannabis Prohibition appeared first on NORML.

"NORML is in a unique position to mobilize interested parties to provide their perspectives throughout the public comment period and we will be encouraging advocates and experts to do so in the coming weeks." The post Justice Department Publishes Proposed

"As more states have adopted legalization, public support for this policy has risen dramatically. That's because these policies are largely working as intended and because voters prefer legalization and regulation over the failed policy of marijuana pro

In a video message, the President called the proposed scheduling change "monumental." The post White House Endorses Marijuana Rescheduling Plan; Says Cannabis’ Placement as a Schedule I Substance “Just Doesn’t Add Up” appeared fir

"I was so happy with the internship that I did it twice! It has been so inspiring and educational to be involved with policy in this way." The post The Value of a NORML Internship appeared first on NORML.

That is why, some 50 years after NORML first began this fight, I am pleased to see the federal government finally acknowledge what we – and millions of Americans – have known all along: That marijuana is a legitimate therapy for many Americans and tha

"Most Americans have tried cannabis and few regret having done so. This is reflected in the public's consistent support for legalizing and regulating cannabis." The post Poll: Majority of Americans Have Tried Marijuana and Say It Should Be Legal appeared

If certified for the ballot, it will be the third time since 2020 that South Dakotans have weighed in on the legalization issue. The post South Dakota: Activists Turn in Signatures To Place Adult-Use Legalization Measure on November's Ballot appeared fir

"When it comes to retail cannabis, the prevailing attitude is 'Buy American.'" The post Report: Seizure Data Suggests State-legal Cannabis Market Has Significantly Curbed Demand For Mexican-grown Marijuana appeared first on NORML.

Perhaps most tellingly, our political opponents are also touting its significance, pledging to take whatever steps necessary to derail this proposed policy change. The post Federal Marijuana Rescheduling Announced appeared first on NORML.

"These findings, and others, refute hypothesized associations between cannabis use and low motivation. It is unfortunate that many of these longstanding stereotypes have historically guided public health messaging about cannabis and have also been used to

"It is significant for these federal agencies, and the DEA and FDA in particular, to acknowledge publicly for the first time what many patients and advocates have known for decades: that cannabis is a safe and effective therapeutic agent for tens of milli

Consistent with prior analyses, researchers determined, "There was no evidence that RML [recreational marijuana laws] were associated with encouraging youth marijuana use." The post JAMA Psychiatry: “No Evidence” That Marijuana Legalization La

More than 150,000 licensed drivers have left the profession in recent years because of these zero-tolerance workplace drug testing policies.  The post NORML Op-Ed: Feds Must Change ‘Discriminatory' Marijuana Testing Policies To Address Trucking Industr

Maine is the 25th state to enact legislation explicitly facilitating the expungement of marijuana-specific convictions. The post Maine: Governor Signs Legislation Providing Pathway For Marijuana-related Expungements appeared first on NORML.

"While expediting timelines may seem advantageous, the potential negatives embedded within the bill outweigh any perceived benefits. Patient access and rights must take precedence over expediency." The post Kentucky: Governor Signs Legislation Expediting

April 20 is the most widely celebrated day in cannabis culture. This 4/20, we have plenty to celebrate. The post Celebrate Our Success This 4/20 appeared first on NORML.

"As more states have adopted legalization, public support for this policy has risen dramatically among voters -- regardless of party affiliation. Elected officials who refuse to take action to end cannabis criminalization do so at their own political pe

After a century of failed policies and "canna-bigotry," the verdict is in. Legalization is a success, and the end of cannabis prohibition can't come soon enough. The post NORML Op-Ed: State-level Marijuana Legalization Has Been A Stunning Success appeared

"Together, results found no net increases in cannabis or, through spillover effects, alcohol or tobacco use among adolescents in response to the rapid rise of RCL [recreational cannabis legalization] and RCR [recreational cannabis retail sales]. Results s

"The sooner consumers have market access to cannabis products, the more quickly we will begin to see disruptions to the unregulated marketplace." The post Ohio: Adult-Use Marijuana Sales Anticipated To Begin Ahead of Schedule appeared first on NORML.

"Virginia's firefighters, emergency services providers, and civil servants across the Commonwealth deserve the same job protections currently provided to private employees for their lawful and responsbile use of medical cannabis. This is a long overdue vi

The bill decriminalizes the possession of up to one ounce of cannabis and/or up to five grams of cannabis concentrates -- imposing a maximum fine of $25. The post Hawaii: Lawmakers Move Forward with Legislation Expanding Marijuana Decriminalization appear

"These findings belie that claim that cannabis is a so-called 'gateway drug' and reinforces the notion that, for many individuals and for patients especially, it acts as a exit drug." The post Analysis: Medical Cannabis Associated With Decreased Use Of Op

"I count him among the early heroes, and martyrs, of the marijuana legalization movement," NORML Founder Keith Stroup said. "May he rest in radical peace." The post NORML Remembers John Sinclair appeared first on NORML.

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization." The post Minnesota: State Poised To Expunge Over 60,000 Marijuana Convicti

"A majority of Floridians, like most voters nationwide, support repealing our failed marijuana prohibition laws and replacing them with a system of legalization and regulation. This is a long-overdue opportunity for them to finally make their voice heard

The legislation provides discretion to physicians to issue medical cannabis recommendations to any patient who may benefit from it. It also allows those ages 65 or older to self-certify for a registration card absent a doctor's recommendation. The post De

"Governor Youngkin has just shown Virginians exactly how out of touch he is with the widely-accepted science and policy research on cannabis in the US. The only protection Youngkin's veto provides is to the illicit market that has ballooned during his tim

"There's no 'buyer's remorse' among the public when it comes to legalizing cannabis." The post Pew Poll: Adults Overwhelmingly Oppose Marijuana Criminalization appeared first on NORML.

"These data indicate that the legal, regulated cannabis market is displacing the underground marketplace. Over time, consumers are becoming more comfortable with and more reliant upon licensed retailers – who typically offer greater convenience, product

Residents ages 18 and older may possess (up to 25 grams) and home cultivate cannabis (up to three plants) beginning on April 1st. The post Germany: Those 18+ May Legally Begin Possessing Cannabis Next Week appeared first on NORML.

Vice President Harris stopped the room to take a moment and say in the clearest words that "we need to legalize marijuana." The post NORML Takes Its Message to the White House appeared first on NORML.

"Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime." The post Massachusetts: Governor Issues Pardons For Those Wi

Vice President Harris emphasized that "nobody should have to go to jail" for marijuana use, and lamented that "far too many Americans" have faced serious legal consequences for minor marijuana offenses. The post Longtime NORML Activist Meets With Vice Pre

Lawmakers have advanced several marijuana-related bills -- including legislation to legalize the adult use market -- out of their chambers of origin. The post Hawaii: Chambers Advance Legislation Regulating Adult-use Marijuana Market, Expunging Past Convi

Lawmakers are increasingly hearing from business interests, not from consumers and grassroots advocates. That is why it is more important than ever that NORML maintains a seat at the table to ensure that consumers' interests are heard and taken seriously.

"We found that non-medical cannabis legalization was associated with an immediate decline in beer sales. Furthermore, beer sales continued to decline in the post-legalization period, suggesting that individuals are moving away from beer towards legal cann

"Today, for the first time since the adoption of federal marijuana prohibition, more US citizens reside in jurisdictions where cannabis is state-legal than live somewhere where it is not." The post Pew: Nearly 80 Percent of Americans Have a Marijuana Dis

The measures now head to Republican Gov. Youngkin's desk. The post Virginia Lawmakers Approve Adult-use Retail Sales Bills appeared first on NORML.

Republican-backed legislative efforts to impose arbitrary THC potency caps on certain cannabis products are likely dead for the session. The post Florida: Push for THC Potency Caps Stalls appeared first on NORML.

"As laws to overturn prohibition continue to take shape across this nation, legislatures should not forget that other policies must also be revised to keep up with the times. The discrimination against cannabis users in the workplace is one of those polic

According to statewide polling compiled last year, 72 percent of residents support the "legalization of marijuana for recreational use." The post New Hampshire: House Lawmakers Advance Adult-use Marijuana Legalization Legislation appeared first on NORML.

"As we mark the first three years of legalization in New Jersey, now is the time to both celebrate its successes and reflect on lessons learned." The post New Jersey Activists Mark 100,000 Marijuana Arrests Prevented appeared first on NORML.

In honor of Black History Month, NORML is spotlighting the systemic inequities that continue to challenge the Black community in the battle for a federally legal cannabis landscape. The post NORML's Black History Month Fight For Consumer Equity: Board Mem

South Carolina is one of only a dozen states that has yet to implement a comprehensive medical cannabis access program. The post South Carolina: Senate Advances Medical Cannabis Access Legislation appeared first on NORML.

Legislation is advancing to legalize the adult use market and to facilitate the expungement of marijuana-related criminal records. The post Hawaii: Lawmakers Advance Multiple Marijuana Reform Bills appeared first on NORML.

Federal health officials concluded, "The risks to the public health posed by marijuana are low compared to other drugs of abuse," such as benzodiazepines — a Schedule IV drug, or alcohol, which is unscheduled. The post NORML Op-Ed: Is The Government Fin

Just ahead of the crossover deadline, both chambers of the Virginia legislature approved measures to legalize and regulate the retail sale of cannabis to adults 21 and older. The post Virginia: House and Senate Chambers Approve Competing Retail Sales Bill

Republican lawmakers are seeking to preemptively restrict Florida's adult-use market ahead of the Court's ruling and before voters have had any opportunity to weigh in on it. The post Florida: Lawmakers Advance Bills to Preemptively Restrict Consumers

Young adults, men, and Democrats were most likely to report being current cannabis consumers. The post Gallup: One In Six Adults Acknowledge Current Use Of Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

Prohibiting adults from accessing these products from state-licensed retailers will not eliminate consumers' demand for them. Rather, it will encourage consumers to seek out higher-THC products in the unregulated market. The post NORML Op-Ed: Setting Caps

Despite having been one of the first two states to initially legalize the adult use marijuana market, Washington is one of only five legalization states that disallows home cultivation. The post Washington: House Lawmakers Move To Lift Home Grow Ban, Reje

This week, I received a Pardon Certificate for a marijuana offense from the President of the United States.  The post Pardons Are the First Step in Federal Cannabis Reform appeared first on NORML.

State regulations governing the alcohol market permit adults the option to legally brew non-commercial quantities of their own alcohol, and it is consistent with this policy to similarly permit home cultivation. The post New York: Regulators to Sign Off o

South Dakota voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure legalizing medical cannabis access in 2020. Since then, lawmakers have routinely sought to repeal aspects of the law and/or significantly amend it. The post South Dakota: Lawmakers Reject Bill T

We're only a couple weeks into this year's legislative season, and we're already seeing a flurry of activity in state capitols nationwide. The post Marijuana Momentum Heats Up Across The US appeared first on NORML.

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano submitted written testimony to the Committee opposing both provisions. The post New Hampshire: Supporters Back Off Efforts To Adopt THC Potency Caps On Medical Cannabis Products, Impose Per Se Driving Limits appeare

"It is significant for these health agencies to acknowledge publicly, for the first time, what many patients and advocates have known for decades: that cannabis is a safe and effective therapeutic agent for tens of millions of Americans." The post HHS Rel

"A patient's treatment options should not be limited by the government, but rather, they should be determined in confidence between a patient and their doctor." The post Delaware: House Committee Advances Legislation Expanding Physicians’ Abilities

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis criminalization." The post Updated NORML Report Highlights Over 2.3 Million Marijuana-Related Expungements a

The new law states, "It is unlawful for an employer to discriminate against a person in the initial hiring for employment if the discrimination is based upon the person's use of cannabis off the job and away from the workplace." The post Washington: New S

Seventy-nine percent of veteran respondents and 92 percent of their family members said, "Veterans Administration doctors should be legally allowed to recommend marijuana to veterans if the doctor believes the patient could benefit from [it.]" The post Su

Starting January 1st, most employers will no longer be able to either fire or refuse to hire someone based solely upon their cannabis use history. The post California: Employees to No Longer Face Discrimination at Work for Their Off-Hours Cannabis Use app

Adults may purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flowers and/or up to one-quarter of an ounce of concentrates from licensed retailers beginning January 1st. The post Nevada: New Marijuana Possession Limits Set to Take Effect appeared first on NORML.

"Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana," the President announced. "It's time that we right these wrongs."  The post POTUS Issues Expanded Pardon Proclamation For Those With Certain Federal Marijuana Convictions app

"It is time for politicians and others to stop assessing cannabis through the lens of ‘what we don't know' and instead start engaging in evidence-based discussions about marijuana and marijuana reform policies that are indicative of all that we do know.

"The limited popularity of these products is a predictable outgrowth of criminal marijuana prohibition. As one would expect, there exists far less demand for these unregulated products in an environment where whole-plant cannabis legally regulated and ava

2023 marks yet another successful year for the advancement of marijuana policy reform in the United States. The post Read NORML’s 2023 End-of-Year Legislative Progress Report appeared first on NORML.

Since the late 1990s, self-reported annual marijuana use by 12th graders has fallen an estimated 25 percent. Among 10th graders, it has fallen by 50 percent. Among 8th graders, it has fallen by more than half. The post Federally Funded Survey: Marijuana

Complete the survey by December 31, 2023 at 11:59pm ET to be entered to win a $100 NORML Store gift card! The post We Want To Hear From You — Take the 2023 NORML Membership Survey appeared first on NORML.

"Today, for the first time since the adoption of federal marijuana prohibition, more US citizens reside in jurisdictions where cannabis is state-legal than live somewhere where it is not," NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. The post Ohio: Voter-Ap

With just days to go before Ohio's voter-approved marijuana legalization measure becomes law, GOP lawmakers are rushing through legislation to all but repeal it. The post Ohio Legislature Attempting to Gut Legalization Initiative Days Before Implementatio

Your contribution, no matter the size, is crucial. Together, we can amplify the voice of the cannabis community in the 2024 elections. The post Be Part of the Change: Support NORML's 2024 Legalization Efforts appeared first on NORML.

Cyber Monday is here and the NORML Store is filled with prohibition-busting goodies. The post Help End Prohibition When You Shop the NORML Store appeared first on NORML.

More than one-third of older consumers (34 percent) reported using cannabis products four or more days per week. The post Survey: More Than Ten Percent of Older Americans Have Consumed Cannabis Products in the Past Year appeared first on NORML.

With tons of holiday gift ideas like cozy hoodies, butter soft tees, and mugs for cocoa, and stocking stuffers like laptop stickers, buttons, and NORML memberships, there's something for every lover of personal freedom on your shopping list. The post Go G

"Individuals reported improvements in overall PTSD symptom severity 30 and 70 days after initiating MMJ [medical marijuana] ... Moreover, they reported reductions in negative affect and improvements in overall well-being. These findings suggest that MMJ u

In a healthy and functioning democracy, elected officials represent the views of the electorate. But, when it comes to the issue of cannabis law reform, Republican lawmakers all too often ignore or seek to undermine their voters. The post NORML Op-Ed: Rep

"These findings ought to reassure lawmakers and the public that cannabis access for adults can be legally regulated in a manner that is safe, effective, and that does not significantly impact young people's consumption habits." The post Government Survey:

City lawmakers voted against adopting the measure outright, thereby placing it before voters this coming May. The post Texas: Lubbock Voters to Decide Fate of Marijuana Depenalization Measure appeared first on NORML.

NORML is the only consumer-focused, grassroots-funded organization working to reform marijuana laws and protect the rights of responsible adult consumers. The post Join NORML for 2024 appeared first on NORML.

The post Let Veterans Health Administration Doctors Recommend Medical Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

"As more states have adopted legalization, public support for this policy has risen dramatically. That's because these policies are largely working as intended and because voters prefer legalization and regulation over the failed policy of marijuana prohi

To be blunt, this change in public opinion is remarkable. The post Public Support for Marijuana Legalization Achieves Historic High appeared first on NORML.

"Cannabis legalization is an issue that unites Democrats, Republicans, and Independents," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "It is imperative that elected officials respect the voters' decision and implement this measure in a manner that is con

If enacted by Ohio's voters on Election Day (November 7th), the possession of marijuana will become legal for adults on December 7th. The post Ohio: Latest Polls Show Continued Support for Legalization Ahead of Initiative Vote appeared first on NORML.

"There are legitimate concerns around the marijuana legalization debate. … However, based on our research and the research of others, the effect that legal marijuana could have on traffic safety should not be one of those concerns." The post Analysis: S

The initiative seeks to end arrests and citations for adults who possess misdemeanor amounts of cannabis within the city's limits. The post Texas: Lubbock Advocates Submit Twice as Many Signatures as Needed To Force Marijuana Depenalization Vote appeared

"Regulation works. Illicit marijuana providers don't ask for or check for ID, but licensed businesses most certainly do." The post Colorado: Compliance Check Data Confirms That Retailers Aren’t Selling Marijuana to Minors appeared first on NORML.

"Even from this incomplete data set, it remains clear that marijuana seizures and prosecutions remain a primary driver of drug war enforcement in the United States." The post FBI: Police Make Over a Quarter Million Marijuana Arrests in 2022 appeared first

"Ohioans have seen similar legalization laws adopted in neighboring states and they know that regulating the cannabis market is preferable to the failed policy of prohibition." The post Ohio: Latest Poll Finds Strong Support Among Voters for Marijuana Leg

If passed, Ohio will be the 24th state to legalize the adult-use marijuana market, and the 14th do so by a public vote. The post Ohio: Early Voting Begins on Adult Use Marijuana Legalization Initiative appeared first on NORML.

"Those who consume alcohol legally and responsibly while away from their jobs do not suffer sanctions from their employers unless their work performance is adversely impacted. Those who legally consume cannabis should be held to a similar workplace standa

Numerous studies assessing the long-term health impacts of cannabis smoke exposure belie the myth that marijuana is associated with the same sort of well established, adverse respiratory hazards as tobacco. The post NORML Op-Ed: The Science Is Clear &#

The survey's authors acknowledged that existing federal testing regulations are contributing to significant numbers of truck drivers leaving the industry while also dissuading new workers from entering it. The post Survey: Most Truck Drivers and Their Car

"Ohioans have seen similar legalization laws adopted in neighboring states and they know that regulating the cannabis market is preferable to the failed policy of prohibition." The post Ohio: Ballot Initiative Legalizing Marijuana for Adults Favored in Mu

Although members of the House have passed an earlier version of the legislation -- the SAFE Banking Act -- on seven prior occasions, today's vote marks the first time that Senate members have voted in favor of the measure. The post Senators Advance Cannab

Under the new statewide policy, which takes effect on Sunday, October 1st, most public employees will no longer be required to undergo pre-employment marijuana testing. The post Michigan: New Rules Take Effect Halting Pre-Employment Marijuana Tests for Mo

"Passage of The CURE Act will increase the talent pool of candidates eligible for federal employment, while recognizing the reality that millions of Americans have experience with cannabis and should not be denied the opportunity to positively contribute

NORML is excited to once again be part of a national effort to strengthen our democracy by registering voters on National Voter Registration Day. The post Are You Ready to Smoke the Vote? appeared first on NORML.

Fall '23 Intern Mae Mueller details her reasons for joining the NORML team. The post I’m Interning With NORML to Promote Personal Freedoms appeared first on NORML.

In the coming days, members of the House and Senate could take action on multiple important federal cannabis bills. The post It's ‘Go Time' for Cannabis Bills in Congress appeared first on NORML.

Lawmakers have advanced two bills to the desk of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom that seek to expand the rights of cannabis consumers. The post California: Bills Expanding Marijuana Rights for Patients, Employees Advanced to Governor’s Desk appeared fi

Fall '23 intern Gloria-Jean writes about her reasons for joining the NORML internship program. The post I’m Interning With NORML Because We Share a Similar Vision appeared first on NORML.

Local establishments authorized to permit adults to consume cannabis on their premises will be able to expand their operations to include food services and live events, under legislation advanced to the Governor's desk. The post California: Legislation Ad

Fall '23 intern Ashley Culbertson shares her reasons for joining the NORML team for the semester. The post I'm Interning With NORML To Gain the Skills To Enact Change in My Home State appeared first on NORML.

"In spite of blatant Congressman Chuck Edwards' blatant attempts at intimidation and interference with tribal sovereignty, members of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians have stood up for their rights and for the rights of cannabis consumers througho

"This milestone reflects the reality that advocates have been engaged in a multi-decade long struggle to compel the federal government to acknowledge the obvious: that cannabis possesses therapeutic benefits. It also highlights the fact that the federal g

It is misleading at best and disingenuous at worst to imply that cannabis smoke exposure is either equal to or more hazardous to health than tobacco smoking, or to imply that long-term data on its respiratory effects do not exist. The post NORML Op-Ed:

Cannabis must be descheduled by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act altogether. The post Rescheduling Marijuana Is Not Enough appeared first on NORML.

The HHS recommendation now goes to DEA, which possesses the final authority to schedule or reschedule a drug under the Controlled Substances Act. The post Report: Leaked HHS Letter Calls Upon DEA to Reschedule Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

While interning at NORML, Sydney Jenkins hopes to become a stronger advocate for those who have been punished for their use of marijuana, and to become a better advocate for justice in her community. The post I’m Interning at NORML to Become a Stron

"Only 18.4 percent [of the evaluated products] probably used natural hemp-derived delta-9 THC," the study's authors concluded.          The post Analysis: Many ‘Hemp-Derived’ Delta-9 THC Products Sold Over the Counter Contain Syntheti

The survey's findings are consistent with those of others reporting rising rates of cannabis use among older adults and seniors. The post Federal Survey: One in Five Older Adults Have Consumed Cannabis in the Past Year appeared first on NORML.

We can liberate cannabis for another 11 million Americans. The post Major Marijuana Legalization Vote this November appeared first on NORML.

"Historically, when given the choice, voters have consistently chosen to reject cannabis criminalization and to embrace legalization and regulation. Ohioans have seen similar legalization laws adopted in neighboring states and they know that regulating th

Although the study's lead author criticized Americans' changing perceptions toward cannabis, numerous scientific studies reinforce the fact that cannabis smoke exposure poses far fewer risks to health than does tobacco. The post Survey Highlights Changing

NORML's work for cannabis consumers never takes a vacation. The post The Fight for Legalization Doesn't Take a Summer Break appeared first on NORML.

"In short, our history and tradition may support some limits on an intoxicated person's right to carry a weapon, but it does not justify disarming a sober citizen based exclusively on his past drug usage." The post Appeals Court Rejects Federal Gun Ban fo

Overall, 83 percent of Democratic-leaning respondents endorsed legalization as compared to 55 percent of Republican-leaning respondents. The post Gallup: Majority of Republicans Support Legalization, but Partisan Gap Remains appeared first on NORML.

Summer '23 Intern Marlie Thompson details her experience at NORML The post Spending the Summer Interning with NORML appeared first on NORML.

State officials are set to begin providing financial reimbursements to hundreds of thousands of residents with prior convictions for the possession of marijuana and other controlled substances. The post Washington: State Launches Online Reimbursement Port

The possession and home cultivation of marijuana is now legal for Minnesotans. The post Another State Liberates Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

Consistent with prior studies, investigators reported "no difference in workplace injury risk" among those employees who consumed cannabis while away from the job versus abstainers. The post Study: Cannabis Use During Off-Hours Not Associated with Elevat

The responsible use of cannabis should never cost you your job. The post End Workplace Discrimination Against Cannabis Consumers appeared first on NORML.

"Nearly half of all Americans now reside in a jurisdiction where the adult use of cannabis is legal," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "To date, no state has moved to either curtail or repeal these legalization laws. That's because these polic

Those who consume alcohol legally and responsibly while away from their jobs aren't punished by their employers unless their work performance is adversely impacted. Those who legally consume cannabis should be held to a similar standard. The post NORML Op

"Our study provides novel information on workers' use of cannabis for their work-related conditions, a population for which little data exist. … Findings of this study demonstrate workers are turning to cannabis many months following the onset of their

Earlier this month, Marylanders experienced their first taste of cannabis freedom. In a few weeks, Minnesotans will join them. Who will be the next? The post There's No Stopping the Cannabis Revolution appeared first on NORML.

Data suggests that endocannabinoids (namely anandamide), rather than endorphins, are responsible for the so-called 'runner's high' experience. The post Study: Cannabis Use Enhances ‘Runner's High' During Exercise appeared first on NORML.

The Michigan Civil Service Commission has voted unanimously to adopt new rules ending the practice of pre-employment marijuana screening for most state workers. Under the new policy, those previously denied positions because of a failed marijuana test are

A statewide poll of likely voters reported strong support for adult-use legalization among Democrats (79 percent) and Independents (61 percent), but far less support among Republicans (40 percent). The post Ohio: Advocates Turn In Nearly Twice the Number

This week's updates include developments in: CA, MA, ME, NJ, NY, & PA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 7/12/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Thanks to your advocacy, activism, and support, dozens of new marijuana laws took effect around the country this month. The post Major Changes to Cannabis Law Take Effect Around the U.S. appeared first on NORML.

Seven years after California voters passed Proposition 64 in 2016, successfully legalizing marijuana possession, cultivation, and sales, the courts are finally nearly finished relieving all qualifying cannabis cases. The post California Addresses 90% of

This week's update highlights legislative developments in CA, FL, OH, & OR. The post State Policy Weekly Update 7/6/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Multiple improvements to the state's medical program became law July 1, 2023. The post Virginia: Changes to Medical Cannabis Laws Take Effect appeared first on NORML.

As of this Saturday, July 1st, those age 21 or older may begin legally growing personal use quantities of cannabis at home. The post Connecticut: Law Change Permitting Adults to Home Cultivate Cannabis Takes Effect on Saturday appeared first on NORML.

Highlights include legislative developments in CA, FL, ME, & PA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/28/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Beginning on July 1, those age 21 or older may legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower and/or 12 grams of cannabis concentrates. The post Maryland: Adult-Use Marijuana Legalization Laws Take Effect This Week appeared first on NORML.

Descheduling cannabis removes the threat of undue federal intrusion in existing state marijuana programs and respects America's longstanding federalist principles allowing states to serve as "laboratories of Democracy." The post NORML Op-Ed: Cannabis Must

Highlights include LA, ME, NV, NJ, PA, & VT. The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/21/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Excess tax burdens imposed on state-legal cannabis businesses are destroying their profitability. These states are legislating change. The post 280E Is Harming Legal Cannabis Businesses; These States Are Legislating Change appeared first on NORML.

"Interning with NORML provides me with the opportunity to engage in projects that closely align with my passion. I aspire to change the social stigmas surrounding marijuana and marijuana use. I also aspire to promote the therapeutic utility of cannabis."

"Tens of thousands of Louisianans carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that the majority of state residents no longer believe should be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and

The new law significantly increases the amount of cannabis patients may home cultivate and doubles the amount of THC available in certain marijuana products. The post Vermont: Legislation Becomes Law Increasing THC Limits, Plant Counts for Patients appea

"This measure reinforces the reality that the responsible, adult-use of cannabis is legal in the state of Maine and that those who engage in this lawful behavior should not face discrimination for their actions." The post Maine: Lawmakers Advance Legislat

Highlights include: CA, CO, IL, LA, ME, NV, NY, OH, PA, & VT The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/14/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"This study found no evidence for increased cannabis use among youth living in zip codes with active medical cannabis dispensaries. In fact, 12th graders living in zip codes with dispensaries had lower past-year and past-30-day cannabis use." The post Ana

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization." The post Rhode Island: Courts Expunge Over 20,000 Marijuana-Related Convic

Eighty-three percent of participants said that cannabis is "less harmful to a person's health compared to alcohol" and 67 percent said that it is a "highly important treatment for older adults." The post Survey: Older Adults Hold Positive Attitudes Toward

Highlights include: CA, LA, NV, NY, OH, & PA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/7/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"It is clear that many counties have made no serious effort to comply with the requirements of the Missouri Constitution," Missouri NORML Coordinator Dan Viets said. "It should not be necessary to seek a court order in order to force our courts to comply

"This bill will facilitate trusted university partners to engage in the kinds of research that will best equip state and federal lawmakers and regulators to develop effective cannabis policies based on public health and safety, will allow consumers to mak

Proponents say that the law's intent is to limit the number of in-person cash transactions taking place at licensed retailers. The post Colorado: Legislation Becomes Law Permitting Online Sales of Retail Cannabis Products appeared first on NORML.

Justices reversed a lower court decision and concluded that certain "sale-related marijuana offenses are eligible for expungement" under the state's 2020 voter-initiated legalization law. The post Arizona: Appellate Court Expands Pool of Marijuana-Related

Summer '23 Intern Marlie shares her reasons for joining the NORML team. The post I’m Interning at NORML to Fight Against the War on Drugs appeared first on NORML.

Marijuana reform legislation continues to advance in several states. This week's update highlights legislative developments in CA, LA, MD, ME, MN, NC, & TX. The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/31/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Adults may legally possess cannabis on August 1, 2023. State officials at that time will begin the process of reviewing and expunging tens of thousands of marijuana convictions. The post Minnesota Becomes the 23rd Legal Marijuana State appeared first on N

The U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals has accepted NORML's 'friend of the court' amicus brief in a case that seeks to protect the Second Amendment rights of state-authorized medical cannabis patients. The post NORML Legal Committee Submits Amicus Brief i

Every day that Congress fails to act needlessly jeopardizes the livelihood of these small businesses and their consumers. The post NORML Op-Ed: Senate Must Act on Legislation Clarifying Cannabis Banking Rules for State-Licensed Businesses appeared first o

"In the largest trial to date involving experienced users smoking cannabis, there was no correlation between THC (and related metabolites/cannabinoids) in blood, OF [oral fluid], or breath and driving performance. … The complete lack of a relationship

Highlights include LA, ME, MD, MN, MT, NV, NH, NY, OH, PA, and RI. The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/24/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Federal law enforcement agents and their partners seized nearly 5.7 million cultivated marijuana plants in 2022. This is the highest annual seizure total reported by the agency since 2011. The post DEA Reports More Marijuana Seizures, Fewer Arrests in 202

"Policies that mandate would-be hires to undergo urine screens for past cannabis exposure are invasive, discriminatory, and ineffective. They neither identify workers who may be under the influence, nor do they contribute to a safe work environment." The

"In [this] cohort of ever-tobacco smokers of ≥20 pack-years with established COPD or at risk of developing COPD, ... a history of current and/or former smoking of marijuana of any cumulative lifetime amount was not found to be associated with a signific

Provisions in the bill permit adults to purchase (up to two ounces from state-licensed retailers and/or 8 grams of concentrate and 800 milligrams worth of edible products), home-cultivate (up to eight plants, no more than four of which can be mature), and

After a century of failed policies and canna-bigotry, Americans are ready to move in a different direction — one that legalizes, regulates, and educates. The post NORML Op-Ed: Ending Cannabis Bigotry Is Long Overdue appeared first on NORML.

Highlights include CA, LA, MD, MN, NH, & VT. The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/17/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"These data indicate that the legal, regulated cannabis market is displacing the underground marketplace," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "Over time, consumers are becoming more comfortable with and more reliant upon licensed retailers – w

The finalized measure now goes back to both chambers for floor votes, which could take place as soon as tomorrow. The post Minnesota: Lawmakers Finalize Adult-Use Legalization Language, Prepare to Send It to Governor’s Desk appeared first on NORML.

"Canada's real-world experience with marijuana legalization ... affirms that these policies can be implemented in a way that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access, discouraging misuse, and not compromising public

The establishment of a regulated market designed to keep cannabis products away from young people, and that provides clear warnings to those specific populations who may be more vulnerable to its effects — coupled with a policy of consumer education —

A new study by Whitney Economics has discovered excessive tax burdens placed on cannabis businesses as a result of Section 280E. The post Analysis: State-Licensed Cannabis Businesses Paid Nearly $2 Billion In Excess Taxes in 2022  appeared first on NORM

Highlights include: FL, ME, MD, MO, MV, NH, OH, PA, VT, and WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/10/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"Every day that Congress fails to act endangers the livelihood of these small businesses and their customers, puts local regulators and law enforcement at a disadvantage, and facilitates the activities of unlicensed operators and criminal organizations."

"States' real-world experience with marijuana legalization affirms that these policies can be implemented in a way that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse." The post Federal Report: Marijuana Use by

Washington joins a growing number of jurisdictions that have passed legislation limiting employers' ability to pre-screen applicants for past marijuana use. The post Washington Becomes Latest State to Ban Pre-Employment Tests for Cannabis appeared first o

NORML Spring '23 Intern Lucy Matthews shares her experience working with the national team in Washington, DC. The post My Experience Interning with NORML appeared first on NORML.

Highlights in: AK, CA, CO, LA, ME, MN, MO, NV, NY, TX, and VT.  The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/3/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"The criminalization of marijuana harmed low-income communities and communities of color in a profound way," Gov. Moore said. "We want to make sure that the legalization of marijuana lifts those communities now in a profound way." The post Maryland: Gover

"It's going to be on the ballot and it's going to pass," Tom Haren, a spokesperson for the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, told the Ohio Capital Journal. "Ohio consumers ... will be able to have safe, effective and regulated adult use of c

Investigators concluded, "High potency cannabis use, measured as THC concentration in cannabis and high potency cannabis preference, was not associated with increased symptoms of psychosis." The post Study: Plant THC Potency Not Associated with Elevated R

"For almost ten years, patients and their providers have lacked the ability to locally access these medically necessary state-approved products from state-licensed retailers. Hopefully, their wait is finally over." The post Georgia: Regulators Finally Lic

"Passage of this legislation is the result of years of grassroots activism by consumers and stakeholders, including Minnesota NORML. In fact, the impetus for the formation of Minnesota NORML was based upon a police raid and resulting marijuana arrest. The

"If cannabis businesses are to have any hope of operating safely, transparently, and in a manner that is competitive with the existing underground market, Congress must pass SAFE Banking now." The post SAFE Banking Act Reintroduced in House and Senate app

Highlights include: CA, DE, ME, MN, NV, NC, TX, and VT. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/26/2023 appeared first on NORML.

NORML 2023 spring intern Christopher Handwerger answers questions about his experience. The post What’s It Like to Intern with NORML? appeared first on NORML.

"Texas leads the nation in marijuana-related arrests. Passage of this legislation will end this dubious distinction." The post Texas: House Advances Marijuana Penalty Reduction Legislation appeared first on NORML.

"Minnesota is poised to become an island of cannabis freedom in a sea of marijuana prohibition." The post Minnesota: House Chamber Advances Adult Use Legalization Measure appeared first on NORML.

"After years of advocacy, collaboration, and grassroots organizing, we are thrilled to see cannabis legalization become a reality in our state. This victory is a result of the tireless work of thousands of volunteers, dozens of lawmakers, and with the sup

"One of the greatest benchmarks of the success of legalization is the simple fact that public support for this policy change has consistently grown in the years since states began adopting it." The post CBS News Poll: Most Americans Say Marijuana Should B

We're giving one to everyone who donates $42 or more now through April 30, 2023! The post Keep Cool With a NORML Koozie appeared first on NORML.

Highlights include: AK, AR, CA, CO, DE, IL, LA, ME, MA, MN, NH, NY, NV, NC, OK, VT, & WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/19/2023 appeared first on NORML.

The legislation provides a temporary five-year "safe harbor" in which veterans will not be punished for state-legal cannabis use and VA doctors will be able to officially recommend medical cannabis in accordance with state laws. The VA would also be manda

The Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement (HOPE) Act, sponsored by Reps. David Joyce (R-OH) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), allocates $20 million in federal funds over the course of ten years to provide grants to state and local government

The Governor can either sign or veto the bills by the deadlines. If he takes no action, the bills become law absent the governor's signature. The post Delaware: Governor Has Days to Decide the Fate of Adult-Use Legalization Bills appeared first on NORML.

"I am honored to lead this important fight for freedom." The post Join Rick Steves in the Fight to End Marijuana Prohibition appeared first on NORML.

The Small Business Tax Equity Act provides an exemption for state-licensed cannabis businesses from federal tax code 280E, which prevents anyone engaged in the trade of certain federally prohibited substances from deducting business expenses. The post Bip

"In the more than five decades of NORML's history, few individuals have contributed more to achieving our mission than Norm. In the end, he accepted his impending death with grace and humor." The post NORML Remembers Norman Elliot Kent appeared first on N

Highlights include: AR, CA, CO, ME, MD, MO, NH, PA, SC, and TX The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/12/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"Passage of this legislation will provide qualified patients with a state-sanctioned option to access a therapy that has proven to offer significant benefits." The post Texas: House Lawmakers Advance Legislation Expanding Access to Medical Cannabis Produc

The finalized legislation permits existing medical cannabis dispensaries to apply (for a fee) for dual licensure to sell to the adult-use market beginning this July. The post Maryland: Lawmakers Advance Adult-Use Legalization Implementation Bill to Govern

It is time for Gov. Carney to acknowledge and support the majority of Delawareans who back cannabis legalization in the First State. The post Op-Ed: Delaware Veteran Demands Gov. Carney to Sign Cannabis Reforms into Law appeared first on NORML.

The millions of Americans who rely upon medical cannabis products ought to be afforded the same entitlements as those who use other conventional medications and therapies. The post NORML Op-Ed: States Should Require Insurers to Pay for Medical Cannabis ap

Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) and Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), along with 15 other co-sponsors, have reintroduced the Veterans Equal Access Act, or H.R. 2431. The post Bipartisan Effort to Improve Veterans' Access to Medical Cannabis Introduced in Congress appea

"Illicit marijuana providers don't ask for or check for ID, but licensed businesses most certainly do." The post Study: Licensed Cannabis Retailers Are Strictly Complying with ID Verification Laws appeared first on NORML.

Highlights in: AK, ID, IL, KY, LA, MD, NV, NM, ND, VT, & WA The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/5/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization." The post Connecticut: State Prosecutors Dismiss 1,500+ Pending Marijuana C

"For years, Kentuckians have been calling for medical cannabis legalization and now they will have the freedom to safely access regulated, therapeutic products right here at home," said Matthew Bratcher, Executive Director of Kentucky NORML. The post Kent

Differences in the two bills' language will likely need to be addressed in a conference committee before being advanced to the Governor's desk. The post Maryland: Lawmakers Advance Dueling Bills to Regulate Adult-Use Cannabis Sales appeared first on NORML

"This is a victory against discrimination toward people who use cannabis," said the bill's sponsor, Sen. Karen Keiser. "For people using a legal substance — many of them for medical reasons — locking them out of jobs based on a pre-employment test is

Members of the House and Senate have approved legislation, Senate Bill 47, regulating the production and dispensing of cannabis products to authorized patients. The post Kentucky: Lawmakers Approve Medical Cannabis Access Legislation appeared first on NOR

Highlights in: CA, DE, LA, MD, MA, MT, NH, NC, ND, OK, SD, & WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/29/2023 appeared first on NORML.

NORML is pleased to announce the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors. The post NORML Welcomes New Members to Its Board of Directors appeared first on NORML.

"The progress today is a result of years of grassroots activism. Further, it is a reflection of lawmakers evolving on this issue and being responsive to the will of the electorate, which overwhelmingly favor ending the failed policy of cannabis criminaliz

States' real-world experience with marijuana legalization affirms that these policies can be implemented in a way that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse. The post NORML Op-Ed: In the Era of Legal Ma

"Members of the DC City government continue to prioritize policies that both advance and protect the freedoms of responsible cannabis consumers. These policies include providing patients with convenient access to regulated medical cannabis products, prohi

Highlights in: AZ, DE, IL, KS, KY, MA, MD, NH, NY, TX, VT, WA, and WV. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/22/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Since 2020, more than 100,000 truck drivers have tested positive for past cannabis exposure. Of this total, only about 25 percent sought to return to work — resulting in mass driver shortages. The post NORML Op-Ed: Antiquated Marijuana Policies Are Exac

"For millions of patients, cannabis is a legitimate therapeutic option. More and more, lawmakers, regulators, and the courts are recognizing this fact and evolving their opinions and policies accordingly." The post Pennsylvania: Appellate Court Rules That

The measure awaits approval by the House The post Kentucky: Senate Approves Medical Cannabis Bill appeared first on NORML.

Highlights in: AL, DE, FL, IL, KS, KY, ME, MD, MO, NH, NV, NM, ND & TX. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/15/2023 appeared first on NORML.

The Act provides for the automatic review and expungement of any convictions or citations specific to marijuana-related offenses that have subsequently been decriminalized or legalized in the District of Columbia. It requires all cannabis-specific expunge

"An increasing number of Americans are choosing cannabis as a therapeutic option, and in many cases, they are substituting it in lieu of other potentially less effective and more harmful substances." The post Analysis: Percentage of Americans Acknowledgin

NORML is saddened to report on the passing of Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the "Father of Cannabis Research." He was 92 years old. The post NORML Remembers: Dr. Raphael Mechoulam appeared first on NORML.

The Justice Department has finally opened up the process for those seeking Presidential pardon certificates for past marijuana convictions. I am one of those Americans. The post Biden's Marijuana Pardon Certificates Are Important for All Americans, Partic

"Legalizing cannabis possession, eliminating criminal penalties for all ages, and creating a regulated market are huge leaps forward for Delaware," said Laura Sharer, Executive Director of Delaware NORML. "Provisions afforded from the Justice Reinvestment

Highlights in: AK, AZ, CA, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, KY, ME, MD, NH, NM, NY, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/8/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Oklahomans who engage in marijuana-related activities, but who are not registered in the state's medical program will continue to face some of the strictest penalties in the nation. The post Oklahomans Reject Adult-Use Legalization Ballot Measure appeared

Altieri assumed the leadership role in November 2016, directing NORML during one of the more successful periods in the marijuana law reform movement's history. The post NORML Executive Director Erik Altieri Stepping Down from Leadership Position appeared

NORML only exists and succeeds because of the support of passionate and dedicated individuals like you. With you standing shoulder to shoulder with us, we will continue to take our fight to city councils, state legislatures, and to Congress. Together, we

After a several month delay, the Justice Department has opened the online application process for those persons eligible to receive certificates indicating that their marijuana-related convictions have been pardoned by the President. The post Justice Depa

Delaware deserves to go green in 2023. We deserve regulated cannabis. The post Op-Ed: Cannabis Legalization Is Overdue in Delaware appeared first on NORML.

Highlights in: GA, IL, ME, MD, MN, MT, NY, ND, SC,SD, TN, TX and WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/1/2023 appeared first on NORML.

Those previously convicted of possessing one ounce or less of cannabis are eligible for record sealing. It is estimated that some 800 Alaskans will receive relief under the order, which takes effect May 1, 2023. The post Alaska: Supreme Court Orders Prior

"Historically, when voters are provided the choice at the ballot box, they choose legalization and regulation. This has been the outcome not only in traditionally 'blue' states like California and Oregon, but also in traditionally 'red' states like Montan

Highlights include: CA, CO, GA, HI, IL, MD, MN, MO, NC, ND, NH, NM, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, UT, VT, and WA. The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/22/2023 appeared first on NORML.

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said, "These latest findings add to the growing body of scientific literature showing that legalization policies can be implemented in a manner that provides access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth ac

Recently conducted observational trials in Israel and the United Kingdom have documented improved symptoms following the use of cannabis products among patients with post-traumatic stress. These outcomes include statistically significant changes in sleep

Highlights include: AZ, CO, GA, KS, ME, MD, NH, NM, RI, TX, VT, VA, and WV The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/14/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"This vote is another huge disappointment for Virginians, the majority of whom favor swift access to retail sales," added Pedini. "Legislation providing regulatory oversight is the best way for the Commonwealth to protect cannabis consumers. By failing to

Many of those eligible for forgiveness have suffered numerous lost opportunities over the years because of a lingering conviction for behavior that most Americans no longer believe should be a crime. They should not have to continue to wait for relief any

Voters in several Texas cities – including Austin, Denton, Elgin, Harker Heights, Killeen, and San Marcos – have approved similar ballot measures. The post Texas: San Antonio Voters to Decide on Marijuana Depenalization Ordinance appeared first on NOR

Highlights include: DE, GA, HI, IA, MD, MN, MO, NB, NH, NY, NC, ND, OH, SD, TN, WA, and WV. The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/7/2023 appeared first on NORML.

"[T]he mere use of marijuana carries none of the characteristics that the Nation's history and tradition of firearms regulation supports," the Court determined. "The mere use of marijuana does not indicate that someone is in fact dangerous" or has a "proc

I chose to work for NORML this spring because I believe that the destigmatization and legalization of cannabis is crucial to creating a more just, equitable, knowledgeable, and free society. The post Why I'm Fighting for Cannabis Freedom appeared first on

"The option to grow for oneself is a fundamental right which has been part of legalization in the great majority of the 20 other states which have now taken the historic step of repealing the criminal prohibition of responsible adult marijuana use." The p

State Question 820 permits adults to legally possess and home-cultivate personal use qualities of cannabis while also establishing a licensed, retail marketplace. The post Oklahoma: Voters Still Have Time to Register Ahead of March Legalization Vote appea

NORML Development Director JM Pedini, said that Tuesday's vote represented "another stunning failure of leadership on cannabis policy." The post Virginia: House Republicans Reject Retail Cannabis Sales Plan appeared first on NORML.

City lawmakers have provided final approval to a pair of bills that seek to significantly reform marijuana laws in the District of Columbia. But both bills still must undergo a 30-day Congressional review prior to becoming law. The post District of Columb

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization." The post Rhode Island: Courts Begin the Process of Erasing Marijuana Recor

If public safety is an actual priority for either chamber, then they will approve legislation to begin sales at licensed dispensaries as soon as possible.". The post Poll: Virginia Voters Support Legalizing Adult-use Cannabis Retail Sales appeared first o

"These findings contribute robust evidence for clinicians regarding the potential benefits of medical cannabis in reducing the opioid burden for patients receiving long-term opioid therapy and possibly reduc[ing] their risk for overdose." The post Study:

"Assisting and working toward legalization nationally will allow me not only to learn about the failed federal experiment with cannabis, but also inform me on ways to better educate constituents on how they can take action to change these policies in thei

"The Transportation Department's reliance on this outdated technology and upon these discriminatory policies is out of step with reality and is directly contributing to the trucking shortage crisis." The post Tens of Thousands of Commercial Truckers Leav

"This study is the ... largest ... to quantify the association of medical and recreational cannabis policies with rates of psychosis-related health care claims across US states. … [W]e did not observe a statistically significant association of state ca

It's time for the Department of Justice to deliver the pardon certificates that President Biden promised last fall. The post Presidential Pardons for Federal Cannabis Possession Convictions Still Unavailable appeared first on NORML.

"Marijuana access has been long overdue for Mississippi's patients," NORML's State Policies Manager Jax James said. "The overwhelming majority of voters decided in favor of this policy change over two years ago, and lawmakers had an obligation to ensure t

Lawmakers in many states have started pre-filing marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Mis

"As a cannabis consumer, marijuana has changed my life for the better. ... There is nothing that I want to do more than be part of an organization that supports initiatives that advocate on behalf of freedoms for cannabis consumers." The post Why I’

Missouri NORML is very proud and pleased to announce that more than 3.500 Missourians have had their marijuana cases expunged from all public records only a few weeks after Article XIV/"Amendment 3" became effective on December 8.  The post Missouri: 3,5

"Today, with the hard work of the members of the 34th Legislature and prior Legislatures and the efforts of my team, we are finally here and finally signing into law the Virgin Islands Cannabis Use Act." The post Virgin Islands: Governor Signs Legislation

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) was saddened to receive news of the passing of David Crosby, who joined NORML's Advisory Board in 2018. The post NORML Remembers David Crosby appeared first on NORML.

Lawmakers in many states have started to pre-file marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Alaska, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Missi

"Marijuana law reform brings together important conversations over decarceration, racial equity, public health, and informed consumption. As long as NORML remains a leader of this public discussion, I intend to stay involved." The post Why I Chose to Inte

"These products are unregulated and untested, readily available on the internet and unlicensed sources, and pose significant threat to public health and safety." The post New Study Raises Concerns Over Inhalation of THC-O appeared first on NORML.

Lawmakers in many states have started to pre-file marijuana law reform legislation and some sessions have already begun holding hearings. This week's update highlights legislative developments in Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, N

"A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Arment

"Because the use of marijuana under AMMA ‘must be considered the equivalent of the use of any other medication under the direction of a physician,' the exposure of [the plaintiff's] infant to marijuana resulted from medical treatment and did not constit

"Cannabis has established efficacy in the treatment of multiple conditions, including chronic pain, and it possesses a safety profile that is either comparable or superior to other controlled substances. So it is no wonder that those with legal access

During his State of the Commonwealth Address delivered Wednesday evening, Democratic Governor Andy Beshear called for the legalization of medical cannabis in Kentucky The post Kentucky: Governor Beshear Calls for Legalization of Medical Cannabis appeared

Oklahoma voters will decide on a citizens' initiated measure (State Question 820) legalizing the adult-use marijuana market in a special election to be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.  The post Will Oklahoma Be the Next State to Legalize Marijuana? appea

"The adoption of this law will make it so that tens of thousands of Ohioans are no longer stigmatized and disenfranchised by the collateral consequences resulting from a minor marijuana violation," said Jax James, NORML's State Policy Manager. The post Oh

"Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "Our sense of j

"Once implemented, … the Territory will see an industry that is inclusive and diverse, and most importantly, safe," said the bill's sponsor. "It is my hope that the current administration implements [the law] to its full potential, for the benefit of th

Under the new law, adults who possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis (and/or up to 12 grams of cannabis concentrates and/or any cannabis product containing up to 750 mgs of THC) are subject to a civil violation, punishable by no more than a $100 fine. Adult

Kentucky NORML sponsors exhibit at Capitol in support of medical cannabis legalization The post Kentucky NORML Meets with Governor Beshear on Medical Cannabis appeared first on NORML.

As a patient and consumer focused advocacy organization, NORML prioritizes efforts in favor of state-level legislation that seeks to achieve the following goals. We are also keeping an eye on the following states for 2023 advancement. The post Looking Ah

"It is time for politicians and others to stop assessing cannabis through the lens of ‘what we don't know' and instead start engaging in evidence-based discussions about marijuana and marijuana reform policies that are indicative of all that we do know.

Prior to 2015, the District had one of the nation's highest per capita arrest rates for marijuana-related offenses -- averaging one arrest every two hours. The post District of Columbia: Council Members Advance Legislation to Expunge Tens of Thousands of

"Democrats' failure and the GOP's continued resistance to any progress is out of step with voters' opinion, is bad politics, and most importantly, it is bad public policy." The post No Further Movement Expected on SAFE Banking, Other Marijuana Reforms in

What we do now will determine how successful we are next year. The post The Battle for Legalization in 2023 Starts NOW appeared first on NORML.

Monitoring the Future has released their 2022 findings regarding cannabis use rates for 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students. The study found that rates for each cohort were largely unchanged from last year. The post Federally Funded Study Finds Teen Use Ra

City officials report that there are no longer any open cases specific to marijuana possession pending before the Municipal Court. The post Kansas City: Officials Dismiss Hundreds of Marijuana Cases Following Statewide Legalization Vote appeared first on

Provisions in the bill provide pathways so that those with misdemeanor marijuana convictions (and/or those convicted of most misdemeanors and fourth- or fifth-degree felonies) can petition the courts to have their records sealed. The post Ohio: Lawmakers

"Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "Our sense of ju

The District of Columbia's city council has recently approved the Medical Cannabis Amendment Act, significantly expanding medical cannabis operations in DC. The post District of Columbia: Council Members Advance Legislation Further Expanding Medical Canna

"Voters and lawmakers took significant steps this year to repeal marijuana prohibition laws and to provide relief to those tens millions of Americans who have suffered as a result of them," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. The post NORML Issue

"A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices." The post Connecticut: Adult-Use Can

"Especially as Connecticut employers seek to fill hundreds of thousands of job openings, an old conviction for low-level cannabis possession should not hold someone back from pursuing their career, housing, professional, and educational aspirations." The

"December 8th is a historic date for Missourians," said Dan Viets, co-author of Amendment 3, Missouri NORML Coordinator, and Chair of the Amendment 3 Advisory Board. "Most of the 20,000 annual marijuana arrests in our state will end on that date. Instead,

Today, even in jurisdictions where cannabis remains criminalized under state law, tens of millions of Americans reside in cities and counties where local laws either depenalizing or decriminalizing cannabis-related activities are in effect. The post NORML

Giving Tuesday is the largest global giving day of the year and NORML is excited to be a part of this worldwide event! The post On Giving Tuesday, Pledge to Legalize It appeared first on NORML.

"Voters are consistent in their support for these common-sense federal reforms. Majorities of Democrats, Independents, and Republicans back these changes and federal lawmakers should work in a bipartisan manner to achieve them." The post Poll: Nearly Thre

"We are proud to launch adult use sales in Rhode Island just six months after the Cannabis Act was signed into law, marking the Northeast's fastest implementation period," said Matt Santacroce, interim deputy director of the Rhode Island Department of Bu

Our successes are only possible because of your support in our fight for cannabis freedom. The post We're Thankful for You in 2022 appeared first on NORML.

"The inclusion of applicants that have been negatively impacted by cannabis prohibition is an important step toward providing restorative justice, "says Jax James, NORML's State Policy Manager.  The post New York: Regulators Award Marijuana Licenses to J

"Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization." The post Oregon: Governor Announces Mass Pardons for Those with Low-Level

"While the significance of Congress passing the first stand-alone cannabis policy reform bill should not be overlooked, in truth, we don't need more research to know definitively that prohibition is a misguided and disastrous policy." The post Congress Ad

"Kentuckians suffering from chronic and terminal conditions are going to be able to get the treatment they need without living in fear of a misdemeanor," Gov. Beshear said in a prepared statement. "With 37 states already legalizing medical cannabis and 90

"An overwhelming majority of Americans have consistently opposed our failed prohibition of marijuana for years now, and it defies common sense that our elected officials at the federal level have yet to take any meaningful action." The post Gallup: Nation

The House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties held a hearing entitled "Developments in State Cannabis Laws and Bipartisan Cannabis Reforms at the Federal Level." The post <strong>NORML Deputy Director Testifies on M

"This means that the great majority of the 20,000 people who have been arrested year after year in Missouri will no longer be subject to criminal prosecution for victimless marijuana law violations." The post Missouri Becomes 21st State to Legalize Mariju

"Are we in a stronger place today than we were yesterday? Of course we are." The post Legalization Momentum Continues Following Several Election Night Victories appeared first on NORML.

NORML staff will be bringing you the latest results and analysis LIVE all night! Tune in as we #SmokeTheVote. The post NORML Election Night LIVE 2022 appeared first on NORML.

Maryland is the 20th state to legalize marijuana for adult use, and it is the second to do so via the passage of a popular referendum. The post Maryland Becomes 20th State to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.

"Texans have shown that they want major cannabis law reforms in Texas via polling, legislative engagement, and now at the local ballot box! " The post Texas Cities Move to Depenalize Marijuana Possession appeared first on NORML.

Nineteen other states have smartly legalized the responsible use of marijuana for adults. Now it's time to bring cannabis freedom to Missouri, Maryland, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Arkansas The post Rick Steves: We Need to Win for Cannabis and Civil

Over 22,000 DC residents are legally authorized to access medical cannabis. The post District of Columbia: Mayor Signs Legislation Raising Marijuana Possession Limits for Patients, Providing Access to Non-Residents appeared first on NORML.

"Legalizing and regulating cannabis provides for more job opportunities, greater tax revenues, and safe access to high quality products at increasingly affordable prices," NORML's State Policy Manager Jax James said. "This economic data shows once again w

"Between local and state efforts, these initiatives will affect over 18 million Americans."  The post Millions of Americans to Cast Votes for Marijuana Legalization on Election Day appeared first on NORML.

"The only productive outcome would be for the administration or for Congress to move expeditiously to deschedule cannabis ... providing states the power to establish their own marijuana policies free from federal intrusion." The post NORML Op-Ed: Cannabis

This election may be the most critical one yet in our fight to end marijuana prohibition. The post Urgent Action Needed for Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.

"Personal experience with cannabis is a relatively surefire cure for ‘reefer madness,'" NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "As greater percentages of adults continue to become familiar with marijuana for either therapeutic purposes or for thei

The NAACP resolution states: "The SAFE Banking Act could enable cannabis businesses with social equity licenses ... to better compete in the industry." The post NAACP Calls for the "Immediate Passage" of SAFE Banking Legislation appeared first on NORML.

President Biden's foray into the arena of marijuana reform legitimizes legalization as a subject worthy of consideration — and action — by those at the highest levels of government. Further, it is a recognition — by the president of the United State

Seventy-eight percent of Democrats, as well as 70 percent of Independents and 54 percent of Republicans, say that no one should be incarcerated for possessing cannabis. The post Poll: Two-Thirds of Voters Say “Nobody Should Be in Jail” for Mar

With multiple states and cities across the nation deciding upon adult-use legalization this fall , NORML is redoubling our efforts to inform, educate, and get voters to the ballot box. In many states voter registration deadlines are approaching and early

"In order to rectify the state/federal conflict that currently exists over marijuana policy, and in order to best maintain the market controls that a majority of states have enacted to promote public health, prevent the distribution of marijuana to minors

Among those between 18 and 44 years of age, more than half say that Congress should prioritize the issue. Among registered Democrats, 54 percent of respondents said that lawmakers ought to prioritize legalization. One-quarter of Democrats said that it sho

We must double down on our efforts encouraging Congressional leadership to finally repeal the federal prohibition of marijuana once and for all! The post It’s Time to Legalize America appeared first on NORML.

"Moving forward, the Administration must work collaboratively with Congressional leadership to repeal America's failed marijuana criminalization laws. Nearly half of voters now agree that legalizing marijuana ought to be a priority for Congress, and such

Voters' support for legalization was strongest among African Americans (72 percent), Democrats (71 percent), those between the ages of 18 and 44 (70 percent), Hispanics (67 percent), and Independents (61 percent). Republicans (47 percent) and those over t

"It remains clear from the limited data available that marijuana seizures and prosecutions remain the primary driver of drug war enforcement in the United States and that hundreds of thousands of Americans still continue to be arrested annually for these

"The use of cannabis for therapeutic purposes has been legal in certain jurisdictions of the United States for several decades. It is stunning that the medical establishment largely remains unwilling to acknowledge this reality and that so many health pro

By taking cannabis products off street corners and placing them behind the counter, lawmakers can provide consumers with a safer experience and greatly reduce their risk of being inadvertently exposed to contaminated products. The post NORML Op-Ed: Claims

"A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices." The post Vermont: Adult-Use Marijua

If voters approve these measures, approximately half of all US residents will reside in a jurisdiction where the possession and use of cannabis are legal for adults. The post <strong>Voters in Five States, Dozens of Cities to Decide on Marijuana Le

"Voters' views on the subject of legalizing and regulating cannabis have evolved significantly over the past decades; however, the views of those seeking to represent them in Congress have not kept pace with this seismic shift in public opinion. Candidate

The report estimates, "States with roughly 20 to 40 legal regulated stores per 100,000 residents, in general, have captured 80 percent to 90 percent of all cannabis sales in the legal market." The post Analysis: Local Bans on Cannabis Retailers Drive Illi

"At a time when most Americans want to end marijuana prohibition and nearly a majority of people now reside states where cannabis is legal, it makes no sense to continue punishing adults and robbing them of the opportunity to fulfill their potential for b

"In a healthy democracy, those with competing visions on public policy vie for voters' support and abide by their voting decisions. However, it is becoming clear that those who oppose marijuana policy reform would rather take voters out of the equation al

The Arkansas Supreme Court issued a decision today ensuring that a statewide measure seeking to legalize the adult-use marijuana market in Arkansas, will appear on the November ballot.  The post Arkansas: High Court Approves Marijuana Legalization Measur

"Voters' support for repealing cannabis criminalization crosses party lines," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "That is why, historically, these ballot initiative efforts have been equally successful at the ballot box in both 'red' states and

"Urine tests are a highly offensive invasion of workers' personal bodily privacy," said Dale Gieringer, the Director of California NORML -- which had lobbied for several years in favor of the bill.  "They are too frequently abused to discriminate agains

A generous angel donor is matching all donations made to NORML this week! The post Double Your Impact This Week appeared first on NORML.

"If no substantial countervailing concern is raised, judges must grant the petition for expungement," justices on the Supreme Court concluded. The post Massachusetts: Court Ruling May Open the Door for the Mass Expungement of Prior Marijuana Convictions a

"Judges have repeatedly ruled that it is the responsibility of federal lawmakers, not the courts, to repeal the federal prohibition of marijuana. Rather than expect relief from the federal courts, citizens need to continue to pressure their federally elec

"It's time for local officials to put an end to the NIMBYism and unwarranted fears surrounding the establishment of licensed marijuana retailers. Cannabis is here and here to stay. Municipalities need to embrace this reality and provide the necessary over

"With public support for marijuana policy reform reaching super-majority status in recent years, prohibitionists and other political opponents have largely abandoned efforts to try and influence public opinion. Rather, they are now relying on gamesmansh

Those who wish to perpetuate the failed public policy of cannabis criminalization have lost the hearts and minds of the American public. And they know it. The post NORML Op-ed: Prohibitionists Fear Democracy More Than Marijuana appeared first on NORML.

At a time when few cultural influencers were willing to speak out publicly about the injustices of cannabis prohibition in America, Barbara Ehrenreich was an exception. The post NORML Remembers Barbara Ehrenreich appeared first on NORML.

"The passage of AB 1954 brings an end to the this long-standing and discriminatory practice. With dozens of studies showing that cannabis often leads to a reduction in pain patients' use of potentially more harmful opioids, it made no sense for doctors en

"Americans understand that no industry can operate safely, transparently, or effectively without access to banks or other financial institutions and it is self-evident that this industry, and those consumers that are served by it, remain severely hampered

"I have repeatedly called on our Republican-led General Assembly to support the legalization of adult-use marijuana, but they've yet to meet this call for action from myself and Pennsylvanians. Until they do, I am committed to doing everything in my power

NORML's Interns for the Summer '22 semester share thoughts regarding their time working with the NORML staff. The post Summer 2022 NORML Interns Answer Questions About the Job appeared first on NORML.

State lawmakers have advanced several priority bills to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk and a few more remain pending but are up against a  tight timeline. The legislative session in California ends on August 31st. Any bills not transmitted to the Governor

"These arbitrary and unnecessary limits were established without input from either the patient community or from those physicians who specialize in providing oversight to medical cannabis patients. They will likely result in creating unnecessary confusion

Before a single ballot has been cast in the 2022 midterm elections on a single marijuana ballot measure, prohibitionists funded by dark money special interests are doing everything they can in an attempt to crush legalization attempts in several states be

Advocates expressed hope that lawmakers may take up the issue in 2023 now that about a half million Nebraskans have signed petitions over the past few years in favor of it. "I hope the elected officials are paying attention. They have the power to do some

Regulators and other concerned parties should seek to provide the public with more comprehensive safety information about the effects of more potent products, and they should continue to ensure that legal products do not get diverted to the youth market.

"Regardless of intent, it is clear that the continued criminalization of cannabis perpetuates and exacerbates unequal enforcement under the law and the associated harms that come with it. This is not something that we can tolerate in the 21st century, and

Voters in several states and in dozens of cities and towns will decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is an update of where these efforts currently stand in Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Ok

"Millions of citizens unduly carry the undue burden and stigmatization of a past conviction for behavior that is no longer considered to be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that officials move swiftly to right the past w

"This survey data indicates that personal experience with cannabis is a relatively surefire cure for ‘reefer madness." The post Gallup: Those with First-Hand Experience with Cannabis Likely to Perceive It Positively appeared first on NORML.

Today, we launch the initial rollout of NORML's Smoke the Vote for the 2022 midterm elections! The post It’s Time to Smoke the Vote! appeared first on NORML.

"Marijuana sales are already taking place in every town in Rhode Island. The question before voters this November is whether they want these transactions to take place in a safe, above-ground environment or if they want to keep these markets unregulated a

North Dakota Secretary of State Al Jaeger announced today that a measure to legalize the… The post North Dakota: Marijuana Legalization Measure Approved for the Ballot appeared first on NORML.

Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has signed legislation into law that seeks to promote greater diversity among those participating in the state's licensed cannabis industry and that lays the groundwork for the establishment of on-site cannabis consumption fa

Summer may be slowly winding down, but the fight for legalization is heating up. The next few months are going to be some of the most pivotal we have ever seen for our movement to end prohibition. If we are going to succeed, however, we really are going t

"Regulation works. Unregulated marijuana providers don't ask for or check for ID, but licensed businesses most certainly do." The post Colorado: Licensed Marijuana Retailers Compliant with Minimum Age Restrictions appeared first on NORML.

"The limited popularity of these products is a predictable outgrowth of criminal marijuana prohibition. As one would expect, there exists little demand for these unregulated synthetic products in an environment where whole-plant cannabis is legal and regu

Secretary of State John Ashcroft issued a certificate of sufficiency to the Legal Missouri 2022 campaign, formally placing the adult-use legalization initiative on the November ballot. The post <strong>Missouri Legalization Measure Officially Appro

According to the report, over 10,000 drivers tested positive for past cannabis exposure between January 1 and April 1, 2022. That figure is a 33 percent increase over the year before. The post Report: Spike in Marijuana Positives Fueling Truck Driver Shor

Officials in the United States should do all they can to free Griner, but just as important, end the hypocrisy of acting repulsed by her sentencing while maintaining marijuana criminalization at home by bringing our domestic marijuana policies in line wit

Advocates on behalf of the ballot measure are now anticipated to take the matter before the state Supreme Court. The post Arkansas: Election Officials Deny Certification of Proposed Marijuana Legalization Amendment appeared first on NORML.

"Saddling people with the lifelong collateral consequences of even a low-level marijuana arrest or conviction is unjust and provides no legitimate benefit to society. Facilitating the expungement of minor federal marijuana offenses is a necessary step tha

"These are common sense reforms provide further and sorely needed protections and freedoms for patients and others. Lawmakers are to be commended for putting politics aside and taking these important steps forward." The post Louisiana: Changes in State

Voters in several states will decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is an update of where these efforts currently stand.  The post Marijuana-Related Ballot Initiatives and Referenda: July 29th, 2022 Update appeared first on NORML.

With profound sadness, Peachtree NORML announced the passing of Tom McCain, the Executive Director Emeritus and long-time board member. The post NORML Remembers Tom McCain appeared first on NORML.

The effort's campaign manager said that they are working with local officials to double check their voter counts and identify any potential errors, and he said that the campaign remains confident they will ultimately qualify for the ballot. The post Misso

Two-hundred and sixteen Democrats voted in support of the bill, as did 109 Republicans. The post House Members Advance Fast-Tracked Legislation to Amend Cannabis Research Rules appeared first on NORML.

The Act provides the office of the US Attorney General with a 60-day timeline to either approve or deny the applications from scientists wishing to engage in clinical trials involving the use of cannabis by human subjects. The post Federal Lawmakers Fast

Washington, DC: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and… The post Senate Leadership Introduces Legislation to End Federal Marijuana Prohibition appeared first on NORML.

"Suspicionless workplace drug testing policies for cannabis are relics of the failed ‘war on drugs' policies of the 1980s and it is time that we move beyond them." The post District of Columbia: Mayor Signs Legislation Prohibiting Most Employers from Di

Voters in several states will decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is an update of where these efforts currently stand. The post Marijuana-Related Ballot Initiatives and Referenda: July 2022 Update appeared first on NORML.

The vote marks the seventh time that House members have advanced this language to the Senate as either an amendment or as a stand-alone bill. The post House Members Once Again Advance SAFE Banking Reform in Must-Pass NDAA Package, Include Cannabis Protec

It's clear that cannabis consumers are targeted in Pennsylvania for arrest and the striking racial disparities to enforcement are getting worse. The post Pennsylvania Police Arrested Over 13,000 People for Marijuana Possession in 2021 appeared first on NO

"Historically, North Dakota has long had one of the highest marijuana arrests rates in the nation, despite having among the lowest reported marijuana use of any state. Residents deserve the right to weigh in on and rethink this destructive policy." The po

"The primary focus of any medical cannabis legalization law must be providing safe and convenient access to patients in order to improve their quality of life; it should not be about increasing revenue streams for state lawmakers." The post New Jersey: Me

If approved for the ballot, Arkansas and Nebraska will be among a number of states where voters will be deciding the issue this fall. The post Marijuana Reform Advocates in Arkansas, Nebraska Turn in Signatures for November Ballot Campaigns appeared fir

"As in past election years, voters in both traditionally 'red' and 'blue' states will have the opportunity to cast their vote in favor of ending the failed policy of cannabis criminalization. And, if past is precedent, voters in 2022 will once again demon

Before you head to today's barbecue, community event, or rally, whether today's a day of work, reflection, or celebration, please take a moment to stand with us in our fight to let freedom ring. The post We Stand for Freedom appeared first on NORML.

Today, marks the one year anniversary of legalization in Virginia, and multiple changes to marijuana laws will take effect.  The post Virginia: Changes to Marijuana Laws Take Effect July 1 appeared first on NORML.

This week's update highlights legislative developments in California, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Washington, DC.  The post State Policy Weekly Update 7/1/2022 appeared first on NORML.

Yesterday, the NV Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) voted unanimously to approve regulations for the licensing and operation of cannabis consumption lounges. Regulators said they expect to open the first round of licensing for consumption lounges this fall,

The House Committee on Appropriations voted today to approve an amendment that would prevent the Department of Justice from interfering with legal adult-use marijuana programs as part of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations

"These are common sense reforms provide further and sorely needed protections and freedoms for patients and others. Lawmakers are to be commended for putting politics aside and taking these important steps forward." The post Louisiana: Multiple Marijuana

This week's update highlights legislative developments in Arizona, California, Louisiana, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/24/2022 appeared first on NORML.

"This narrowly tailored, incremental, and necessary legislation has broad bipartisan support in both chambers, and it is incredibly disappointing that politics continue to get in the way. If there is a legislative version of the Twilight Zone, the SAFE Ba

Drug interdiction efforts along the US border often involve the seizure of small quantities of marijuana and no other substances, according to a pair of recently issued reports. The post Analyses: Drug Interdiction Efforts at US Borders Typically Yield On

"Suspicionless workplace drug testing policies for cannabis were never evidence-based and they have always been discriminatory. They are relics of the failed ‘war on drugs' policies of the 1980s and it is time that we move beyond them." The post Distri

The totals are the highest reported by the agency since 2011, when it reported making an estimated 8,500 marijuana-related arrests and seized some 6.7 million plants via its domestic eradication program. The post DEA Reports Significant Uptick in Marijuan

"As legal access continues to expand, one would expect the cannabis substitution effect to grow even more pronounced in the future." The post Survey: Nearly Half of Authorized Medical Cannabis Patients Report Substituting Marijuana for Other Substances, P

"Licensed cannabis retailers are good neighbors, drive economic growth, and redirect tax dollars back into the local community. It makes no sense from either an economic perspective or from a public health perspective to prohibit these businesses or to re

This week's update highlights legislative developments in California, Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Louisiana, New York and North Carolina.  The post State Policy Weekly Update 6/10/2022 appeared first on NORML.

"Rather than embracing Oklahoma's robust medical cannabis industry, politicians have instead sought to abruptly tap the breaks. This legislation is largely a solution in search of a problem and it is directly in conflict with the 'free market' principles

"Adults should no longer be stigmatized and disenfranchised because of convictions for marijuana-related activities that are no longer defined as crimes under the law." The post Governors Sign Legislation Further Facilitating the Expungement of Past Canna

Several pieces of reform-friendly legislation have advanced out of their chambers of origin and are now awaiting hearings in their second chambers. The post California: Multiple Reform Bills Continue to Advance appeared first on NORML.

"I feel exasperated that lawmakers have failed to enact this common sense policy reform," said Delaware NORML's Executive Director Laura Sharer. "While we the people are committed to ending prohibition in Delaware, it's clear that our process and some of

I'd like to challenge you to help out with a donation to NORML, which I'll match, dollar-to-dollar, up to $100,000. The post Rick Steves: Let’s Make 2022 the Best Year for Marijuana Yet appeared first on NORML.

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano praised lawmakers for advancing these measures to the Governor's desk. "These are common sense reforms that will provide further protections and freedoms to patients and others and they ought to be enacted swiftly by

The language, which creates two new misdemeanors, will take effect with Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin's signature. The post Virginia: Approved Budget Recriminalizes Public Marijuana Possession Over Four Ounces of Marijuana appeared first on NORML.

This week's update highlights legislative developments in Delaware, Rhode Island, California, Louisiana, and North Carolina! The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/27/2022 appeared first on NORML.

Investigators concluded: "[T]here was 100% compliance with the ID policy to keep underage patrons from purchasing marijuana directly from licensed outlets. … Underage youth are not obtaining marijuana at licensed recreational outlets." The post Study:

"The overwhelming support for this bill exhibited by lawmakers and the expeditious nature with which it was signed into law is indicative of the strong level of public support that exists in favor of legalization not only in Rhode Island, but also nationw

"Most South Dakotans, like most voters elsewhere, oppose the notion of criminalizing adults simply for the possession and use of cannabis and we are confident that they will once again make their voices heard at the ballot box." The post South Dakota: Vot

"This expansion is long overdue," said NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano. "High prices and the lack of convenient access provide significant barriers to Ohio's patient community. Hopefully, the addition of these licensed operators will better address

NORML's State Policies Manager Jax James said: "Continuing to define cannabis as contraband in Delaware is not in the public's interest. It is vital that the legislature push back and override Gov. Carney's veto." The post Delaware: Governor Vetoes Mariju

Both chambers of the Rhode Island legislature voted today to legalize and regulate the adult use cannabis market. It now heads to the Governor's desk. The post Rhode Island Legislature Approves Marijuana Legalization appeared first on NORML.

This week's update highlights legislative developments in Delaware, Rhode Island, Louisiana and Massachusetts! The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/20/2022 appeared first on NORML.

"This is an important first step in the process of ending all penalties for cannabis possession and ensuring Rhode Islanders have access to regulated and tested cannabis products, just like New Englanders already have in neighboring states," says Jax Jame

For the second time this legislative session, members of the House have advanced legislation to establish a regulated, adult-use cannabis market. The post Delaware: House Members Pause Action on Marijuana Retail Bill Until After Legislative Break appeared

Investigators reported, "Contrary to concerns about spillover effects, implementation of legalized non-medical cannabis coincided with decreases in alcohol and cigarette use and pain reliever misuse." The post Study: Young Adults’ Consumption of Alc

Commenting on the settlement, a spokesperson for the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol said, "To be certain: we aren't going anywhere and are undeterred in our goal to legalize cannabis for all adults in Ohio." The post Ohio: No Opportunity fo

NORML PAC endorsed US Senate candidate John Fetterman won the state's Democratic primary by a large margin.  The post NORML PAC Endorsed John Fetterman Wins PA Senate Primary in Landslide appeared first on NORML.

Voters in several states are anticipated to decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is an update of where those efforts currently stand.  The post Status Update: 2022 Ballot Initiatives and Referendums appeared first on NORML.

This week's update highlights legislative advancement in California, Delaware, Louisiana, New Jersey, and more! The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/13/2022 appeared first on NORML.

A bipartisan group of 24 Senators stood up for public safety and for greater economic opportunities for legal cannabis businesses today by sending a letter to leadership in both chambers of Congress asking them to include cannabis banking reform language

The Delaware Senate approved legislation to remove criminal and civil penalties for adult possession of limited quantities of marijuana. In a 13-7-1 vote, the upper chamber voted to pass HB 371, which legalized the possession of up to one ounce of marijua

State officials must now conduct an official assessment of the signature petitions and verify their authenticity before determining whether the two measures will appear on the November ballot. The post Legalization Advocates in Missouri, South Dakota Tur

Austin voters passed the proposition by a margin of 85 percent to 15 percent. The post Texas: Austin Voters Decide in Favor of Municipal Ballot Initiative Eliminating Local Cannabis Penalties appeared first on NORML.

This week's update highlights legislative advancements in several states, including Colorado, Delaware, Louisiana, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and South Carolina.  The post State Policy Weekly Update 5/6/2022 appeared first on NORML.

Clear communication and task division were critical to handling a busy work day with ever-changing priorities. Our teamwork and adaptability made this experience all the more productive, rewarding, and enjoyable. The post Spring 2022 NORML Interns Answer

"The majority of the New Hampshire Senate is clearly out of step with the will of the voters," said NORML's State Policies Manager Jax James. "The continued failure by the Senate to advance House-passed cannabis reform legislation should not go without re

This week's update highlights legislative advancements in several states, including Kentucky, Virginia, Vermont, Tennessee, and Kansas. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/29/2022 appeared first on NORML.

"These common-sense changes will further facilitate patients' and others' access to medical cannabis products and will provide opportunities for greater inclusivity within Maine's licensed marijuana industry." The post Maine: Various Marijuana Bills Becom

The study's authors reported: "Current cannabis users in recreational and medical only cannabis states were significantly less likely to report driving within three hours of getting high in the past 30 days, compared to current users living in states with

With the 2022 legislative session having already ended, this vote effectively ends any further discussion of the legislation this year.  The post Virginia: Senate Kills Governor’s Recriminalization Amendment, Bill Addressing Synthetically Derived M

While granting clemency to nine individuals for federal marijuana offenses is the right thing to do, it is woefully inadequate when there remain over 10,000 individuals who still suffer under the weight of a federal charge on their criminal record. The po

"At a time when national politics remain acutely polarized, elected officials ought to come together in a bipartisan manner to repeal the failed policy of cannabis prohibition. It is one of the few policy reforms that voters on the right and on the left c

This week's update highlights legislative advancement in Alaska, California, Ohio, Missouri, New Hampshire, and in several other states. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/22/2022 appeared first on NORML.

For millions of Americans, April 20th is a day for celebration. And we certainly have plenty to celebrate. The post This 4/20 Help Finish the Fight Against Prohibition appeared first on NORML.

It's 4/20 week, and you are probably being flooded with marijuana-related promotions, ads, and invitations, but please take a moment to read this message and take action to help us change federal marijuana law. The post Tell the Senate: Support Keeping SA

While April 20th is synonymous with celebrating marijuana's cultural status, NORML is calling on all legalization supporters to turn this high holiday into a week of action. The post Elevate Your 4/20 with NORML appeared first on NORML.

Select retailers will begin selling marijuana and cannabis-infused products to those ages 21 and older on Thursday, April 21, Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy has announced. "I want our legal adult-use cannabis industry to be a national model," the Governor sa

This week's update highlights important advancements of legislation in Maryland, New Hampshire, and Delaware, and additional important movements in Pennsylvania, Maine, Illinois and other states. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/15/2022 appeared firs

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano called the legislation "a common sense fix. Those seeking to expunge their records should not be penalized simply because they have recently engaged in behavior that is now perfectly legal under state law." The post

The Governor has proposed an amendment in the nature of a substitute to SB 591 which would create two new misdemeanors for personal marijuana possession.  The post Virginia: Gov. Youngkin Moves to Re-criminalize Personal Possession of Marijuana appeared

Includes eliminating the requirement that patients register with the Board of Pharmacy after receiving their written certification from a registered practitioner. The post Virginia: Governor Youngkin Signs Legislation to Improve Medical Cannabis Program

This week's update highlights important legalization advancement in Maryland, medical cannabis advancement in South Carolina, and additional important movements in Delaware, Illinois and other states. The post State Policy Weekly Update 4/8/2022 appeared

"Each of the major pieces of marijuana policy reform legislation currently pending before Congress enjoy majority support from the American people. It is political malpractice for lawmakers, and those in the Senate especially, to continue to let these eff

"Far too many citizens unduly carry the undue burden and stigmatization of a past conviction for behavior that many jurisdictions, and most Americans, no longer consider to be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that offici

Voters in several states are anticipated to decide on marijuana-related ballot measures in November. Here is where those efforts stand…  The post Status Update: 2022 Ballot Initiatives and Referendums appeared first on NORML.

Last week, a new Super PAC was launched with the sole purpose of halting our progress. This shadowy dark money group has committed to spending well into the six figures on efforts to target and take out elected officials who support legalization. No doubt

"Just like voters have done elsewhere over the past decade, Marylanders will choose in favor of legalization at the ballot box and they will do so overwhelmingly." The post Maryland: Voters to Decide Legalization Question in November appeared first on NOR

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: "These common-sense regulatory changes are necessary and long overdue. The reality that nearly one-half of US adults have legal access to these multitude of cannabis products, but our nation's top scientists do

"It is long overdue that we stop punishing adults for using a substance that is objectively safer than alcohol, and that we work to address the disparate negative impacts that prohibition has inflicted on our most vulnerable individuals and marginalized c

This week's update highlights important legislative advancements in Maryland, Utah, Louisiana, Georgia, and several other states. The post State Policy Update 4/1/2022 appeared first on NORML.

Representative Lynn Williams (D- HD 135) says, "Support for the issues around Maine's medical marijuana program crosses many lines: Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Libertarians and Greens; Downeast, Southern and Northern Maine; rural and urban; twen

"A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Arment

Download the free NORML Report: Marijuana Policies in Legal States: A Comprehensive Review of Adult-use Marijuana Rules and Regulations The post New NORML Report Provides Policymakers with Guidance on ‘Best Practices' for Regulating Adult-Use Marijuana

"Rather than compelling scientists to access marijuana products of questionable quality that are manufactured by a limited number of federally licensed producers, NORML believes that federal regulators should allow investigators to access the cannabis tha

One of the most prominent pillars of NORML, going back to the earliest days of our organization, has died. The post In Memoriam – John Kenneth Zwerling appeared first on NORML.

"Despite the obvious will of the voters, Gov. Noem is intent on perpetuating the failed policies of the past. People with otherwise clean records do not deserve to have rest of their lives to be derailed because of a marijuana possession conviction." The

This week's update highlights important legislative advancements in New Hampshire and Minnesota, focuses on several upcoming hearings, and provides updates on several other important bills moving forward across the country as well as an update on Nebraska

Members of the US House of Representatives have announced that they will  hold a floor vote next week on the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act. The MORE Act, or H.R. 3617, removes marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act

"Seventy percent of voters approved this right at the ballot box and it is reassuring to see that a majority of lawmakers, and the Governor, ultimately decided to respect the voters' decision." The post South Dakota: Governor Signs Legislation Preserving

"Congressman Young was a passionate supporter of ending America's failed marijuana prohibition and implementing a legalization policy based on personal freedom and individual liberty." The post NORML Remembers Rep. Don Young, Co-Chair of the Cannabis Ca

Fifty years ago today, the first and only blue-ribbon committee on marijuana policy formally recommended that Congress repeal federal penalties criminalizing the personal possession of marijuana. The post 50 Years Ago, Congress’ Own Expert Commissio

With a vote of 59 to 34, members of the Kentucky House of Representatives have advanced House Bill 136 to the Senate for further consideration. The bill provides for the production and distribution of a limited variety of medical cannabis products to qual

This week's update highlights important legislative advancements in Illinois, Utah, South Dakota, and Kentucky, focuses on upcoming hearings, and provides updates on several other important bills moving forward across the country. The post State Policy Up

"The attitudes and priorities of federal prosecutors have shifted in the era of state-level marijuana legalization." The post Sentencing Commission: Far Fewer Federal Offenders Charged with Marijuana-Related Crimes in 2021 appeared first on NORML.

A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices. The post New Jersey: Regulators Begin

The new rules stipulate, "No person currently employed by St. Louis County or applying for employment by St. Louis County shall be required to undergo pre-employment or random drug testing for the presence of marijuana metabolites (THC) as a condition or

Last week, Delaware's House of Representatives missed another chance to legalize cannabis for adults 21 and older. HB 305 needed to clear a legislative hurdle requiring a three–fifths super majority, or 25 votes. The final tally on March 10th was 23-14-

This week's update highlights important legalization advancements in Delaware and in Pennsylvania as well as updates on several other important bills moving forward  across the country. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/11/2022 appeared first on NORM

"Permitting limited home cultivation provides patients with the ability to have reliable, affordable, and consistent access to the medicine they rely on. Lawmakers were wise to think twice before taking these rights away." The post South Dakota: Lawmake

Despite a majority of lawmakers who participated in the vote deciding in favor of the measure, it failed to garner the required 3/5 supermajority to advance to the Senate. The post Delaware: House Members Fail to Advance Legalization Legislation appeared

Show that you are "all in" on legalization from the Atlantic to the Pacific and we will send you a LEGALIZE AMERICA sticker. The post Let’s Legalize America! appeared first on NORML.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has taken a progressive step forward with respect to their policies regarding athletes' personal cannabis use by relaxing their cannabis testing policies. The post NCAA Relaxes Drug Testing Policies for

"It is encouraging to see the Court take the position that medical cannabis ought to be tax exempt in a manner like other medications. Patients, many of whom may be on disability or a fixed income, should not been seen by lawmakers as a source of tax rev

Sixty-eight percent of Americans say that Congress should pass legislation so that marijuana businesses can "access banking services and products in states" where it is legal. The post Poll: Nearly 70 Percent of Americans Want Congress to Allow Licensed C

This week's update highlights the latest drama and intrigue in South Dakota, and also includes updates on several other bills advancing across the country – some of which await their Governor's signature. The post State Policy Weekly Update 3/4/2022 app

Despite being the first state in the nation to approve adult-use marijuana possession and sales, Coloradoans – including registered patients – still lack any workplace protections. The post Cannabis Consumers Continue to Face Employment Discrimination

"The White House's outdated, exclusionary policy is inconsistent with the rapidly changing legal landscape around cannabis in the U.S. and globally, and unnecessarily limits access to capital that small cannabis businesses desperately need." The post Whi

"A robust, above-ground retail marijuana market is necessary in order to disrupt the unregulated marketplace and to assure that consumers have adequate access to lab-tested, high quality products at competitive prices." The post New Mexico: Adult-Use Mari

"Lawmakers in South Dakota continue to put their own self-interests ahead of those of their constituents -- the majority of whom wish to see the criminalization of cannabis replaced with a system of legalization and regulation. Lawmakers' failure to advan

"This is an extraordinary disappointment for Virginians who were loudly calling for access to retail sales to begin earlier than 2024, and ultimately a real failure by the legislature to provide for public and consumer safety." The post Virginia: Republic

Here is NORML's weekly update on state legislative activity in Alaska, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, Delaware, and Georgia. The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/25/2022 appeared first on NORML

Legislative proposals that seek to legalize the adult-use cannabis market have advanced in several states in recent days. The post Adult-Use Legislative Efforts Advance in Delaware, Maryland, and South Dakota appeared first on NORML.

The cannabis industry created an average of 280 new jobs per day in 2021. That represents a 33 percent year-over-year increase, and it marks the fifth year in a row of annual jobs growth greater than 27 percent. The post Report: Legal Marijuana Industry E

It took a decade of legislative politics and nearly three million voters changing the New Jersey state constitution to end cannabis prohibition in the Garden State. The post One Year Ago Today, New Jersey Ended Mass Arrests for Cannabis Possession appeare

Here is NORML's weekly update on state legislative activity in Maryland, Vermont, Utah, South Dakota, Alabama, Ohio, Washington, Nebraska, Colorado, Maine, Hawaii, California, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Wyoming, New Hampshire, and Arizona. The po

The legislation authorizes already licensed hemp growers to obtain temporary conditional licenses to commercially cultivate and process cannabis for the state's forthcoming adult-use market. The post New York: Lawmakers Advance Legislation to Expedite Adu

Senate Bill 391 advances to the House of Delegates on a historic bipartisan 21-18 vote. The post Virginia: Senate Approves Adult-use Cannabis Retail Sales in Bipartisan Vote appeared first on NORML.

"Every single day that Harrisburg delays there are Pennsylvanians charged with marijuana possession and paraphernalia offenses." The post Lawmakers, Cops Consider Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization in Pennsylvania appeared first on NORML.

As more states transition from marijuana criminalization to a regulated retail marketplace, struggles over the structure of retail sales markets have become a foremost concern. Inabilities in establishing and enacting clear and timely regulations regardin

Here is NORML's weekly update on state legislative activity in Wisconsin, Washington, Tennessee, South Dakota, South Carolina, New York, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Iowa, Illinois, Hawaii, and Colorado. The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/11/2022 appeared

"Today, we are without any kind of home-grow rights. If we were able to produce our own cannabis, our own cannabis oils, and yes even our own vape products, we could guarantee our own safety."  The post Pennsylvania: Patients Respond to Recall of Medical

By a vote of nearly 2 to 1, members of the South Carolina State Senate advanced medical cannabis access legislation, the bipartisan Compassionate Care Act. It will now go to the State House of Representatives. The post South Carolina: State Senate Advanc

Senator Schumer said: "In the coming weeks, we're ramping up our outreach and we expect to introduce final legislation. Our goal is to do it in April. Then we begin the nationwide push, spearheaded by New York, to get the federal law done. As the majority

"We are hopeful that Oklahomans will have the opportunity this fall to decide in favor of ending the failed policy of marijuana criminalization.If so, we are confident that they, like voters in other states have already done, will decide in favor of legal

Here is NORML's weekly update on state legislative activity in Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Mississippi, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ohio. The post State Policy Weekly Update 2/4/2022 a

This vote marks the sixth time that members of the House have advanced SAFE Banking to the Upper Chamber either as an amendment or as a stand-alone piece of legislation. The post House Advances SAFE Banking Act as Part of the America COMPETES Act appeared

"This legislation is consistent with the laws of a growing number of jurisdictions that recognize that off-hours cannabis use poses no legitimate threat to either workplace safety or productivity. Tens of millions of Americans consume cannabis responsibly

NORML has long opined that patients must have access to cannabis flowers, stating: "Orally administered non-herbal forms of cannabis possess delayed onset and their effects are far less predictable than those of herbal cannabis. The post Minnesota: Patien

State lawmakers have rejected a series of legislative proposals that sought to curtail how and where patients could access and use medical cannabis. The post South Dakota: Lawmakers Reject Legislative Efforts to Restrict Medical Cannabis Access appeared f

"Marijuana access is long overdue for Mississippi's patients," NORML's State Policies Manager Jax James said. "The overwhelming majority of voters decided in favor of this policy change over a year ago, and for the past 14 months the will of the people ha

"We are ready and eager to work with Ohio legislators over the next four months to legalize the adult use of marijuana in Ohio," CTRMLA spokesman Tom Haren said in a press release. "We are also fully prepared to collect additional signatures and take this

Here is NORML's weekly update on pending state legislation in Washington, Virginia, Utah, Tennessee, South Dakota, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kansas, Illinois, Hawaii, and Delaware. The post State Policy Weekly Update 1/28/2022 appeared first on

The bill now goes to the desk of Republican Gov. Tate Reeves, who has repeatedly threatened to veto the measure. However, the Act has ample support from lawmakers to override a veto. The post Mississippi: Lawmakers Advance Medical Cannabis Access Bill to

This vote is the latest of many actions taken by lawmakers to undue voters' actions on Election Day, when they approved a pair of ballot initiatives legalizing marijuana for both medical and adult-use purposes. The post South Dakota: House Lawmakers Move

"A patient's treatment options should not be limited by the government, but rather should be determined in confidence between a patient and their doctor. Doctors should be fully empowered to decide what treatment options are best -- free from political in

Here is NORML's weekly update on pending state legislation with helpful links to action alerts. The post 1/21/22 – State Policy Update appeared first on NORML.

We have a chance to push a major marijuana legalization bill through the House of Representatives, but time is quickly running out. The post We Need You to Help Pass the MORE Act appeared first on NORML.

Despite the Governor's threat to veto, Mississippi lawmakers have advanced the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act, which legalizes medical marijuana access in the Magnolia State. The post The Fight Continues for Medical Marijuana Access in Mississippi appe

Here is NORML's weekly update on pending state legislation in Wisconsin, West Virginia, South Carolina, Mississippi, Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, Florida, Delaware, Alaska. The post State Policy Update (1/14/2022) appeared first on NORML.

Despite over 60 percent of Texas voters supporting marijuana legalization, advocates continue to face an uphill battle in the legislature. In response, activists in Texas are now expanding their efforts to focusing on implementing reforms at the local lev

Update: Ballot Initiative and Referendum Efforts. View a map of signing locations. Learn about volunteer opportunities.  The post Update: Ballot Initiative and Referendum Efforts appeared first on NORML.

The updated purchasing rule, which increases the quantity of cannabis flower a customer can buy per transaction from one ounce to two ounces, took effect on January 1. The post Oregon: New Rules Increase the Amount of Cannabis Adults Can Purchase Per Tran

Updates on filed and moving legislation over the last week. The post State Policy Update (1/7/2022) appeared first on NORML.

"I look forward to working closely with Congress and our allies to continue the efforts to end prohibition, repair the harms it has caused, and enact new policies centered on science, safety, and justice," Fox said. The post Longtime Cannabis Policy Exper

"Tens of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigmatization of a past conviction for behavior that is no longer considered to be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that officials continue to take action in o

Legislation permitting licensed retailers to sell marijuana products to those ages 21 or older took effect on Saturday, January 1. The post Montana: Era of Adult-Use Marijuana Sales Begins appeared first on NORML.

New state and local laws amending marijuana policies will take effect on the first day of the new year. The post Several States to Usher In the New Year with Cannabis Liberalization Laws appeared first on NORML.

Following the validation of 132,887 signatures by state officials, lawmakers will have up to four months to consider the legalization measure. If lawmakers fail to act on the proposal, organizers will then need to collect an additional 132,887 signatures

Let's make 2022 a huge year for legalization. I'll match all donations up to $20,000, double your impact! The post Rick Steves: Let’s Win in 2022 appeared first on NORML.

"Virginians 21 and older ought to have access at the already-operational dispensaries sooner rather than later, and they have been very clear in their demands to move earlier the date of sales," said Jenn Michelle Pedini, NORML's Development Director and

Baltimore's mayor, Brandon M. Scott, said: "[O]utdated and costly pre-employment drug and alcohol screenings only served to block qualified and passionate residents from obtaining employment with the City. ... I am grateful that we are making this change

Please take time today to let us know how we are doing and to let us know what you think we should be doing to end America's war on marijuana consumers. The post Tell Us What You Think – Take the NORML Survey appeared first on NORML.

Specifically, the data identified a 38 percent year-over-year reduction in self-reported marijuana use among eight graders, a 38 percent decline among 10th graders, and a 13 percent decrease among 12th graders. The post Government-Funded Study Shows Unpr

Under the newly signed law, the possession of personal use quantities of cannabis by adults will no longer be subject to civil penalties. Furthermore, police may no longer cite the odor of cannabis as justification for engaging in a warrantless search. Th

Only 23 medical cannabis facilities are currently operating in the state. Under the state's medical marijuana law, patients are not permitted to home-cultivate cannabis. The post New Jersey: Regulators Approve Provisional Licenses for 30 New Medical Mari

"We reviewed letters over 18 months sent to violating companies by the FDA. Cannabidiol-related substances led the spectrum of products with unsubstantiated claims to treat COVID-19 infection." The post CBD Products Commonly Flagged by FDA for Making Un

It is unfortunate that Congress chose to not affirm the legitimacy of state-level marijuana legalization and instead chose to deny this emerging legal industry access to basic financial tools and services. The post SAFE Banking Language not Included in Fi

Under the plan, patients in the state's medical access program will be able to purchase marijuana-infused gummies or other similar chewable products beginning on August 1, 2020. The post Minnesota: Regulators Okay Patients’ Access to Cannabis-Infuse

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws is pleased to announce the addition of Jax Finkel James to its national staff. "I am excited to join the staff at NORML where I can use the passion, lessons, and skills I have learned in Texas to

Legislation would incentivize state and local governments to expunge the criminal records of tens of millions of Americans who have previously been convicted of marijuana offenses.  The post Reps. Dave Joyce and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Introduce Legisla

Since 2010, scientists have published an estimated 27,000 peer-reviewed papers specific to cannabis, with the annual number of total papers increasing every year. NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said, "It is time for politicians and others to stop

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: "These polling results once again affirm that most voters do not experience ‘buyer's remorse' following the enactment of marijuana legalization. Most Americans believe that these laws are operating in a manne

State legislators in 2021 enacted over 50 laws liberalizing marijuana policies in more than 25 states. The post NORML Issues Report Highlighting 2021 State Legislative Victories appeared first on NORML.

As we reflect back on our many hard-earned victories of 2021, it is apparent that we have much to be thankful for. The post Grateful for Major Marijuana Victories in 2021 appeared first on NORML.

"Legalization opponents cannot succeed in the court of public opinion or at the ballot box," NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said. "Thus, they are now petitioning the courts to overturn the will of the people. Whether or not one supports marijuana

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: "These conclusions reaffirm the notion that states can sensibly regulate the adult use and sale of cannabis in a manner that doesn't adversely impact public safety. Moreover, in some cases, legalization may con

Under the state's new adult-use legalization law, those with past marijuana convictions may petition for either the expungement of their records or for a re-sentencing of their conviction. The post Montana: Officials Create New Drug Court to Focus Solely

NORML Board Member and California NORML Director Dale Gieringer said that the legal cannabis market in California is already "burdened by excessive taxes and regulation. ... California needs to be reducing, not increasing cannabis taxes to make the legal

Republican Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced the States Reform Act, a comprehensive bill that repeals the federal prohibition of marijuana, expunges federal non-violent marijuana crimes, promotes local ownership in the emerging regulated industr

"While today's news comes as a welcome relief for West Virginians, it is far too little too late for the tens of thousands of patients who have suffered needlessly in the interim as politicians and regulators largely dragged their feet," NORML State Polic

Despite medical marijuana programs being passed or enacted in a supermajority of states, federal policy currently prohibits VA-affiliated doctors from even recommending medical cannabis to veterans in those states where such use is legal -- thus forcing m

In a letter addressed to Rep. Eleanor Holmes-Norton, the agency says that it will continue to enforce policies that involve the "termination of the tenancy of any household" in instances where a tenant is found to have engaged in the use of a controlled s

Republican Gov. Tate Reeves appears to have backed off a pledge to hold a special legislative session this fall to enact medical cannabis legalization. Lawmakers reached consensus on a medical marijuana bill in September, but the Governor has refused to t

House Bill 4295 removes the ban on those with previous felony and misdemeanor marijuana convictions from participating in the legal medical marijuana industry. The post Michigan: Governor Signs Measure Expanding Eligibility for Participation in Medical Ma

Today, the majority of US states regulate medical cannabis access and 18 have legalized adult use. Arguably, none of these political and cultural advancements would have been possible without the success of California's 1996 campaign and the efforts of th

"As was the case in 2020, solid majorities of U.S. adults in all major subgroups by gender, age, income and education support legalizing marijuana," Gallup pollsters determined. The post Gallup Poll: Americans’ Support for Marijuana Legalization Hol

"Virginians were expecting an opportunity to expedite retail sales and cannabusiness licensing in the 2022 General Assembly. Now, it appears that chance may have gone up in smoke, and instead a potential delay looms on the horizon." The post Virginia: Ele

Voters yesterday decided on a number of state and local ballot initiatives specific to marijuana policies. The post Voters Weigh In on a Variety of Marijuana Ballot Questions appeared first on NORML.

"Should President Biden wish to acknowledge the political, economic, and moral realities surrounding cannabis policy, and fulfill the promises he made on the campaign trail, this report lays out a clear roadmap for how to do so." The post New Congressiona

"When it comes to addressing questions specific to the safety and therapeutic efficacy of cannabis, this publication provides the evidence that patients and their physicians – as well as lawmakers – need to know." The post New NORML Book Summarizing H

Scientists reported: "Our results clearly demonstrate that NIDA cannabis samples are substantially genetically different from most commercially available drug-type strains and share a genetic affinity with hemp samples in several of the analyses." The

NORML is incredibly saddened to receive the news that longtime drug policy reform advocate and ally William "Bill" Piper has passed away after a long battle with a personal illness. Bill spent much of his life fighting against our draconic Drug War polici

Data provided by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health finds that marijuana use fell significantly year-over-year among those ages 12 to 17. The post Federal Survey Identifi

Goucher polling dating back to 2015 has consistently reported that the majority of Marylanders endorse cannabis legalization. The post Maryland: Most Residents Want to Legalize Marijuana for Adult Use appeared first on NORML.

Join us at CWCBExpo with a Complimentary 3-day Expo Pass just for NORML supporters, and save 20% on a Seminar Pass. The post NORML Heads to Cannabis Week in NYC appeared first on NORML.

The proposed rules, which must undergo a 60-day public comment period, permit the cultivation of up to six cannabis plants per private residence. The regulations will take effect once the public comment period has ended and the Board has finalized its lan

State officials announced: "Approximately 203,000 marijuana related charges are presently being suppressed from background searches and in process to be sealed or expunged. ... This will add to the approximately 198,000 sealing accomplished as part of the

Justices on the state's highest court have yet to render a decision regarding the fate of Constitutional Amendment A, the voter-approved initiative which sought to legalize the adult-use possession and sale of cannabis. The post South Dakota: Six Months

There has never been a more important time to be part of our cannabis justice… The post Show Your Commitment to Legalization in 2022 appeared first on NORML.

Employers will still be allowed to take action against an employee who is impaired on-the-job, but only if an employee "manifests specific articulable symptoms of impairment." The post New York: Employers Are Prohibited from Testing Most Employees for Ca

It's been weeks since the initial request, and the governor continues to stall. The post Mississippi: Governor Still Hasn’t Called a Special Session to Address Medical Marijuana appeared first on NORML.

In the newly released annual spending packages by the Senate Appropriations Committee, cannabis policy is scantly mentioned yet by omission, it could advance a critical element of reform that has long been pushed for by NORML and other allies. The post S

333,886 simple marijuana possession conviction records were previously sealed after the state enacted a measure in 2020 to decriminalize low-level marijuana possession offenses. The post Virginia: Officials Seal Over 64,000 Misdemeanor Marijuana Distribut

In a statement, Dr. Gieringer said: "Consumers are facing a bewildering array of new cannabis products, including novel agents such as Delta-8 THC. Many come from suspect, unregulated sources on the hemp market or contain new synthetic substances not fou

The House Veterans Affairs Committee (HVAC) will conduct a legislative hearing on Wednesday, October 13th, which will include consideration of the bipartisan VA Cannabis Research Act of 2021, HR 2916. The post House Veterans Affairs Committee Considers M

Join NORML Appalachia of Ohio at the State House atrium in Columbus beginning at 9am! The post Ohio: Lobby for Cannabis Reform on October 13 appeared first on NORML.

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said that study "raises more questions than it answers," but also cautioned that its findings should not yet be extrapolated to the cannabis consuming population as a whole. The post Study: Cannabis Use Disorder Dia

Regulations for home cultivation by registered medical cannabis patients still have not been established. The post New York: Regulators Approve Patients’ Access to Medical Cannabis Flower appeared first on NORML.

Brookside, Dillonvale, Laurelville, Martins Ferry, McArthur, Morristown, Mount Pleasant, Murray City, New Lexington, New Straitsville, Powhatan Point, Rayland, Tiltonsville and Yorkville. The post Ohio: Voters in These Cities Will Decide on Marij

Regulators should not be creating undue barriers of entry for those seeking to participate in the legal adult use marketplace. This new rule will encourage more inclusiveness and diversity in Washington's growing cannabis industry." The post Washington: N

These laws include revising possession penalties for minors and regulating social consumption sites. The post Nevada: New Marijuana Laws Took Effect This Month appeared first on NORML.

Patients who are registered with the state's medical cannabis access program may now legally grow cannabis for their own personal use. The post Connecticut: Medical Marijuana Home Grow Law Takes Effect appeared first on NORML.

Subcommittee members decided 6 to 4 to eliminate the ability for qualified patients to home-cultivate marijuana. Nearly 70 percent of voters decided in favor of the ballot Measure (Measure 26) last November, which allows patients to either obtain cannab

For the second time in US history legislation to repeal the failed, unscientific, and racist policy of federal marijuana prohibition has passed the powerful House Judiciary Committee.  The post Bill to Repeal Marijuana Prohibition Passes Critical House C

Members of the House Judiciary Committee just advanced the HR 3617: The Marijuana, Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act of 2021. The Act repeals the long-standing federal prohibition of marijuana by removing it from the Controlled Substan

"This is a simple, yet critical, move that will provide relief, compassion and dignity to terminally-ill Californians." The post California: Governor Signs Measure into Law Allowing Medical Cannabis Use in Hospitals appeared first on NORML.

If the Governor agrees to convene a special session, it would likely begin on Friday October 1. The post Mississippi: Lawmakers Request Special Session to Address Medical Marijuana Access appeared first on NORML.

The estimated number of persons arrested in the United States for violating marijuana laws declined precipitously in 2020, according to data released today by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. The post Marijuana Arrests Fall Precipitously Nationw

The new cases consist of both felony and misdemeanor convictions dating back three decades.  The post Los Angeles: District Attorney to Vacate Some 60,000 Marijuana Convictions appeared first on NORML.

The MORE Act, which repeals federal marijuana criminalization, is set to be voted on by members of the powerful House Judiciary Committee NEXT WEEK.  The post Bill to End Marijuana Prohibition to Receive Committee Vote In US House appeared first on NORML

Certain government positions would be excluded from the protections under this law. The post Kansas City, MO: City Council Approves Measure Eliminating Pre-Employment Marijuana Testing for Most City Workers appeared first on NORML.

NORML's Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: "For millions of patients, cannabis is a legitimate therapeutic option. More and more, our laws and regulations are recognizing this fact and evolving their policies accordingly." The post Analysis: Growing Num

Over 54,000 Connecticut residents are currently registered to possess and and access medical cannabis The post Connecticut: Qualified Patients Can Begin Home Cultivating Cannabis Next Week appeared first on NORML.

House Bill 241 allows law enforcement to refer a juvenile to counseling, treatment, or other appropriate intervention services in lieu of a monetary fine. The post Delaware: Governor Signs Measure Amending Cannabis Penalties for Minors appeared first on

NORML maintains that the NDAA is an appropriate vehicle for the SAFE banking provisions. According to the American Legion, nearly 1 in 4 veterans report consuming cannabis. Most do so because of its therapeutic effects to mitigate symptoms of a physical o

In response to the public outrage regarding the suspension of American athlete Sha'Carri Richardson for testing positive for cannabis, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has announced that it will be reevaluating its policies. The post World Anti-Doping

NORML Political Director Justin Strekal hosts a Facebook Live discussing the latest news and a frank discussion about marijuana policy reform at the federal level.  The post Live with NORML: Federal Policy Discussion 9/20/2021 appeared first on NORML.

t post about various efforts for statewide reform measures for the 2022 ballot, there has been great progress. Here's an overview with the latest updates: The post An Update on Statewide 2022 Marijuana Reform Ballot Initiative Efforts appeared first on NO

Long awaited sales of cannabis flower in Virginia began this month when medical dispensaries received the final product approvals from the state's regulatory agency. The post Virginia: Botanical Medical Cannabis Sales Begin appeared first on NORML.