Congress Could End Federal Ban On Medical Marijuana
They say that politics make for strange bedfellows, but none stranger than liberal Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank and arch Texas libertarian Rep. Ron Paul. It is being reported that these two lawmakers from opposite ends of the political spectrum will introduce a bipartisan bill today that would end the federal government's ban on Medical Marijuana.
The move comes at a time when 16 states have some form of legalized medical marijuana services, with many others, including New York, quickly moving towards the same conclusion. This has caused conflict between the states that wish to allow their citizens access to cannabis for medicinal purposes, and the federal ban on the plant. The result has been a confusing and often contradictory set of standards when it comes to the creation and enforcement of medical marijuana laws.
The bill seeks to "limit the federal government’s role in marijuana enforcement to cross-border or inter-state smuggling, allowing people to legally grow, use or sell marijuana in states where it is legal,” according to the Marijuana Policy Project.
Of course, the introduction of a bill in Congress is a long way from it becoming law. But those who wish to be heard in this ever growing public policy discussion should contact their elected officials. You can do so easily via the MPP website.
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Thursday, 23 June 2011
