Cannabis law reform continues with major advances across the US
Cannabis law reform has had a lot of progress over the past week, with major advances in the Mid-Atlantic and other regions across the United States. Both Maryland and Delaware legislatures passed legislation to legalize and regulate retail sales of adult-use marijuana, marking a turning point in the history of cannabis policy in the area.
Laura Sharer, executive director of Delaware NORML, praised the passage of HB 1 and HB 2, stating that legislators' commitment to implementing cannabis policy that is focused on advancing public health and social justice. In another victory for cannabis advocates, the Kentucky General Assembly sent a medical cannabis access bill to the Governor, who signed it into law. Kentucky is joining 37 other states in the enactment of comprehensive medical marijuana access.
Matthew Bratcher, executive director of Kentucky NORML, called the development an incredible victory, saying that while there is still work to be done, it represents a historic step for the state.
Washington lawmakers have introduced legislation that would prohibit employers from administering pre-employment drug tests for marijuana, which is a result of the wave of cannabis reform. Washington will become the eighth state to end workplace discrimination against cannabis consumers, once signed into law by the Governor.
The Governor of Utah has signed legislation that allows them to establish a Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research within the University of Utah. This center will conduct clinical trials on the use of medical cannabis in various patient populations.
These achievements are the result of the relentless advocacy of thousands of grassroots supporters across the country who are ensuring their voices are heard in state capitals. There is still more work to be done in the fight for cannabis reform, and these victories are worth celebrating. Financial support for organizations like NORML and their affiliates is essential to secure the resources necessary for future progress.