In this section you will find several articles on the topic Marijuana Legalization in the U.S.
For every article you can find the link, the reference, a brief summary and a commentary. Enjoy!
1. Some more arguments for legalazation by D. Ludwick (Arizona Central. AUG 17, 2014) Read it here
2. Colorado sees rise in number of homeless after cannabis legalised. by Josie Ensor
3. Despite support in Party, Democratic Governors Resist Legalizing Marijuana by Adam Nagourney
4. Marijuana Legalization Effort begins in California by Associated Press
5. Banks can finally get a piece of Legal Marijuana Money - sort of
by Pema Levy
6. Pivotal Point Is Seen as More States Consider Legalizing Marijuana
by Rick Lyman
7. Marijuana Legalization could be drawn out by D.C Council
by Mike DeBonis
8. U.S drug enforcement official: legalising marijuana threatens U.S institutions
by Associated Press (Washington)
9. Top campaign donor vows to try again if Florida’s medical marijuana amendment fails
by Stephen Nohlgren
For every article you can find the link, the reference, a brief summary and a commentary. Enjoy!
1. Some more arguments for legalazation by D. Ludwick (Arizona Central. AUG 17, 2014) Read it here
Ludwick, D, (2014, August 17). Some more arguments for legalization. The Arizona Central. Taken from http://www. azcentral.com. (Read on September 14, 2014).
Summary
The U.S spent $3.6 billion on law enforcement for arresting possessors of marijuana every year. Also, more than 20,200 Americans are imprisoned solely for possessing marijuana, which implies a lot of money for the penalty system. These figures support the argument that law enforcement has little effect on the usage and availability of marijuana.
Commentary
Though the text is located in a serious publication, it has a lack of support and longer explanations. It is more a editorial or opinion than an article who gives us clear and solid information. However, it gives us a hint on the some of the main pro-legalization arguments.
(The Daily Telegraph, JUL 27, 2014) Read it here
Ensor, J. (2014, July 27). Colorado sees rise in number of homeless after cannabis legalised. The Daily Telegraph. Taken from http://www. telegraph.co.uk (Read on September 10, 2014).
Summary
According to local shelters, marijuana legalization in Colorado has led to an increase on the number of homeless people. Critics warned on possible knock-on effects. Urban peak, a shelter has said theey're dealing with and increase in the number of young users between 15-24 years old. some other shelters have report an increase over 40% in the number of users. However the rate of reported crimes has fallen in 60%. According to a survey from the government, most Americans support Colorado's decision.
Commentary
This piece of news highlights a negative aspect among the consequences of legalization. However in the same article they justify this nehavior as a clearly expected consequence of the process (the author mentioned the movement of people from near cities). On the other hand, the author exposes arguments in favor and closes the text with an unbeatable argument: 61% of Americans support the legalization.
(The New York Times, ABR 5, 2014) Read it here
Nagourney, A, (2014, April 5). Despite support in party, Democratic Governors Resist Legalizing Marijuana. The New York Times. Taken from http://www. nytimes.com. (Read on September 13, 2014).
Summary
Some senators from democratic party are not following the mainstream of the party which is support legalization in other states after Colorado. Some call to prudence, some others say that we're not ready, etc. Some pro-legalization declared that "they are embarrassed or they don't care about.
Commentary
The article makes emphasis in the political aspect that can affect the progress of the bills that aim for legalization. I think is important to highlight the ups and downs of some senators opinions on the issue. This report can give us a good perspective on the future of this debate.
(The Washington Post, Sep 24, 2014) Read it here
The Associated Press (2014, September 24). Marijuana Legalization Effort Begins in California. The Washington Post. Taken from http://www. washingtonpost.com. (Read on September 16 2014).
Summary
An activist group called The Marijuana Policy Project is showing significant advances in his goal of legalizing marijuana in the state of California in 2016. They registered the paperwork to start a campaign pro-legalization that will cost between 2 and 6 USD Millions. The same group has iniciatives in Arizona, Massachusetts and Nevada. They have the experience of Colorado and they expect next presidentials will add some interest in the issue.
Commentary
The article mentions the iniciative of this group and gives us some background on the subject. However, it considers the obstacles it can face in the future regarding political power. Though it shows some figures, the argumentation is based on declarations and it quotes some commentaries from the media and declarations from the group that got Colorado legal.
by Pema Levy
(Newsweek, FEB 14, 2014) Read it here
Levy, P, (2014, Feb 14). Banks can Finally get a piece of Legal Marijuana Money-sort of. Newsweek. Taken from http://www. newsweek.com. (Read on September 20, 2014).
Summary
The huge income pot selling produced in the first day of legalization in Colorado provoqued a major concern in the bank field. The market is increasing and the sellers don't have access to bank accounts. The United States Treasury and the Justice Department published a series of guidelines to handle the money from pot selling. It the beginning, the activity was illegal, but now banks can manage money related with recreational drugs without any risk whatsoever. However, it takes a lot of paperwork in order to control the producers and be sure there's nothing illegal involved.
Commentary
It is very important to highlight new policies in marijuana legalization, for one of reasons for legalization was the economical benefits obtained from taxes. For that reason, the money from selling pot will be legal and can have a positive influence in local economy. This kind of strategies are mandatory in this crucial moment of adaptation to a new way of handling recreational drugs in the U.S.
by Rick Lyman
(The New York Times, FEB 26, 2014) Read it here
Lyman, R, (2014, Feb 26). Pivotal Point Is Seen as More States Consider Legalizing Marijuana. The New York Times. Taken from http://www. nytimes.com. (Read on October 07, 2014).
Summary
After a year of legalization in Colorado and Washington, half of the states are considering legalization for mediacal or recreational use. Although the Department of The State has support the mecanisms to set business between banks and the market, some opponents said that it is too soon to encourage this measures. At least 14 states have advanced this year on laws regarding medical use, including the district of Columbia. And other 17 have passed bills. Benefits from taxes has became in the selling point to some states with financial problems. 61% of Americans support legalization, however the number decreases when it comes to people over 60 years old. As to senaors, 60% democrats and 54% of independents are going pro.
Commentary
The article reflect how the taxes issue has became of a particular interest for some states. It can be an important factor when some senators start to push the bills. The figures they show are in favor of legalization, and they mentioned that even some conservative southern states are considering legalization. The scope is still positive for those who claim marijuana should be legalized.
by Mike DeBonis
(The Washington Post, OCT 12, 2014) Read it here
DeBonis, M, (2014, Oct 12). Marijuana legalization could be drawn out by D.C Council. The Washington Post. Taken from http://www.washingtonpost.com. (Read on October 14, 2014).
Summary
D.C voters are likely to support marijuana possession in the district, but according to the organizaers of the ballot iniciative, who have the power to modify or stop the iniciative the efforts are going to be addressed to lead again towards medicinal use only. The council is trying to delay the decision while they come up with the regulatory framework. Some activists on the other hand, feel that the delays are affecting the will of voters. There is also another concern from both sides: the gap between the moment the inciative becomes a law and the moment the council pass a regulatory bill. Finally the congress will review the process next month and depends on Obama's time in the office.
Commentary
This article shows how is the current situation in D.C is going through its final moments. Although the support is evident, there are some voices who call to peruse the bill, set everything can go wrong before its final release. In this case, the text highlights the role of the council as regulatory office and reports directly some of their represntative voices. I think it is easy to read, very clear and uses a suitable language.
by Associated Press (Washington)
(The Guardian, MAR 04, 2014) Read it here
Washington Associated Press, (2014, Mar 04). U.S drug enforcement official:legalising marijuana threatens U.S institutions. The Guardian. Taken from http://www.theguardian.com. (Read on October 11, 2014).
Summary
Congress is reminding not to abandond scientific concerns on the use of marijuana. They call not to put the voters will over the scientific facts on safety. Some of them consider the government is taking care of this issue in an irresponsable way. Moreover, despite some states law, some congress men say federal law is very clear: marijuana is among the most dangerous drugs, is illegal and has no medicinal value. The DEA is also concerned about the way the federal law is facing the process in the congress. However, the scope is still positive, more and more bills are being passed (Oregon, Alaska).
Commentary
The article is showing the position of part of the congress and their concerns on how the legalization process is being handled by the federal government. In the first paragraph it seems to be clear but as the lines pass by the arguments in favor or legalization are weak and not properly supported. I think it is very informative but in some moments disorganized.by Stephen Nohlgren
(Miami Herald, NOV 02, 2014) Read it here
Nohlgren, S, (2014,Nov 02). Top campaign donor vows to try again if Florida's medical marijuana amendment fails. The Miami Herald. Taken from http://www.miamiherald.com. (Read on November 02, 2014).
Summary
Florida's amendment in medical marijuana requieres 60% voters. Congressman Morgan hopes to get this number but in the case it fails he won't stop the fight. He said it's worthy to spend a great amount of money and effort considering the high number of supporters. Morgan colected signtures in 5 months and he's planing to colect more next year in a period of a year. Opponents on the other hand, declared that the qualifying conditions of the enmendment are loose and it places no restrictions on the location of seed pot shops. The supreme court said that there is narrow protection covering the act of recommending marijuana by doctors, however those whoc commit fraud could be santiocned.
Commentary
The article is very concise and shows a chornological order that helps to read and find the ideas organized. The scope of the article also put an emphasis on the specific role of politicians defending legalization. In this case, they paraphrase a senator and I think it is the best way to let us know the purposes or activists behind this goal. I enoyed and it is very useful fot those interested in the issue.10. Legislator wants NM to legalize marijuana
by James Monteleone
(Albuquerque Journal, JAN 03, 2014) Read it here
Monteleone, J, (2014,Jan 03). Legislator wants NM to legalize marijuana. The Albuquerque Journal. Taken from http://www.abqjournal.com. (Read on November 03, 2014).
Summary
Democrat Senator Gerald Ortiz thinks New Mexico should follow the iniciatives of legalization developed in Colorado and Washington. Ergo, he will present an amendment despite the opposition of Governor Martinez who is trying to stop him. They say Ortiz will face opposition in the congress and the house. He is trying to give the people the opportunity to decide, and also find the taxes positive to fund soial welfare programs in NM. Representatives said that the amendment will face a difficult situation in the legislature and his opponents say that the taxes increasing is a lame excuse and it is better to wait and see what happens in Colorado.
Commentary
I find this piece of news interesting due to the fact New Mexico is a state that had been at the edge of the issue while the attention was on Colorado and some states in the North. The information is based on several voices of authority and it makes evident the main concerns by pro-legalization politicians: the fact that prejudices on consumers end by affecting the justice and fairness of the decisions in central government. The article is easy to read, puts on the scene a new state and it is easy to read. In spite of the formal discourse in this kind of texts, the article includes an idiomatic expression "to give the cold shoulder."11. Pot proponents look to California after victories
by Associated Press
(St. Louis Post-Dispatch, NOV 05, 2014) Read it here
Monteleone, J, (2014,Jan 03). Legislator wants NM to legalize marijuana. The Albuquerque Journal. Taken from http://www.abqjournal.com. (Read on November 03, 2014).
Summary
Marijuana advocates are heading to California. They aim to ballot the iniciative in 2016 while presidentials. Opponents on the other hand, are looking for serious money to support them. After the victory in Colorado, some activist tried in 2010 the poll in California but they failed. Thus, they decided to wait until presidentials this time. Althoug they could be affected by federal laws.
Commentary
This article put California on the horizon. I think it really ilustrates the iniciative in this state, it also does a good comparison and reference with other states. I found some parts difficult to read and the style is very formal. It is short and has a intermediate vocabulary level though. At the end it mentions some figures on taxes which gives it more solid authority.12. Marijuana legalization measure passes easily in D.C.
by Andrea Noble
(The Washington Times, NOV 04, 2014) Read it here
Noble, A, (2014,Nov 04). Marijuana Legalization measure passes easily in D.C. The Washington Times. Taken from http://www.washingtontimes.com. (Read on November 07, 2014).
Summary
Marijuana legalization passed at the polls on Tuesday, November 4. 64.6% of voters supported the iniciative. Most of them did it because it will bring benefits to crime and discrimation measures. Iniciative 71 would make it legal to posses 2 ounces of pot and to grow up to six plants in a home. Oregon passed a measure the same day for one ounce possesion. Washington did set the scenario for buy and sale, this issue is still under authorities study, and in other states as Oregon they are setting taxes policies. As all states that have passed similar measures, they are under central government oversight.
Commentary
This article put California on the horizon. I think it really ilustrates the iniciative in this state, it also does a good comparison and reference with other states. I found some parts difficult to read and the style is very formal. It is short and has a intermediate vocabulary level though. At the end it mentions some figures on taxes which gives it more solid authority.13. Next up for pot legalization: Calif., Vermont, Ariz.?
by Trevor Hughes
(USA Today, NOV 05, 2014) Read it here
Hughes, T, (2014,Nov 05). Next up for pot legalization: Calif., Vermont, Ariz.? USA Today. Taken from http://www.usatoday.com. (Read on November 07, 2014).
Summary
After Colorado, Washington and Oregon, the hot state that has passed measure is California. It is speacially interesting because it will be the first southern state to do it. Main distrit city councils are considering taxes regulation in these states. Opponents said that federal government should enforce federal drug laws. The majority of advocates agree in a fresh and new fight that is getting stronger, considering presidentials in 2016. The results of last polls showed a positive future for pro-legalization.
Commentary
This article ilustrates the good time advocates are facing this week. It does a brief summary on the last political advances in legalization as well as the voices of some opponents. However it makes emphasis on the voices of advocates and activist around this iniciative. It is short but effective. Also. it increases the interest on further states looking forward legalization.14. Melissa Mark-Viverito backs legalization of marijuana
by Erin Durkin
(Daily News, NOV 13, 2014) Read it here
Durkin, E, (2014,Nov 13). Melissa Mark-Viverito backs legalization of marijuana. Daily News. Taken from http://www.nydailynews.com. (Read on November 15, 2014).
Summary
Council Melissa Mark-Viverito supports marijuana legalization. She thinks we should legalize the drug, looking how is being done in other states. she considers the iniciative very appropiate, considering the experience of Colorado and Washington. New york tried to decriminalize possesion of small amounts but it didn´t pass. Last summer, a bill for medical use has been passed though. Major DiBlasio on the other hand is opposed to this position and warned the locals with the possible effects the legalization could have on youngsters' lives.
Commentary
This
article shows how the issue has become mainstream and any declaration about it is a matter of importance. In this case, the declaration came from a high authority from the state of New York, which could have a great influence on the current debate. I think is valuable to follow the track of every movement in the discussion. Moreover, the article mentioned the opponents as well, trying to be objective.15.Marijuana sales take a hit in Colorado; September marks first dip since drug was legalized for recreation
by Marc Weinreich
(Daily News, NOV 13, 2014) Read it here
Durkin, E, (2014,Nov 13). Melissa Mark-Viverito backs legalization of marijuana. Daily News. Taken from http://www.nydailynews.com. (Read on November 15, 2014).
Summary
Pot sales in Denver has dropped in September. According to industry experts, it is due to the decreasing in tourism during the summer. However, they expect a new pick in the winter, when a lot of snowboarders and skiers visit the rockies. There's no reason to think this a loss of interest. The state has generated 7.7 millions in taxes in August and that number dropped to 7.2 in September. The rockies is the area that sells 90% of all pot.
Commentary
The article is very brief but it draws an important aspect of the issue: taxes incomes from pot selling. There's a great expectation on the resources coming from the industry as it was one of the strongest arguments in favor. All indicates that the industry is rolling and showing a positive projection. 16. Marley Natural: Official Bob Marley marijuana coming
by Ann Oldenburg
(Detroit Free Press, NOV 18, 2014) Read it here
Oldenburg, A, (2014,Nov 18). Marley Natural: Official Bob Marley marijuana coming. Detroit Free Press. Taken from http://www.freep.com. (Read on November 18, 2014).
Summary
A new premium cannabis brand is going to use legendary reggae artist Bob Marley as its face to the world. The firm is being called "the first global brand of marijuana." The products include vaporizers and creams. The Marley Family and the managers said that it is going to be serious business and is going to be blessed for Marley was a reckless pro-legalization artist.
Commentary
This piece of news tells us the mainstream issue cannabis has become lately in the U.S. This attitude towards marketing is an evidence of the long time necessity for legalization since many years ago. After few months of legalization in Colorado and Washington, many companies and entrepeneurs have developed strong and organised iniciatives for building an important industry around pot. 17.Adults-only marijuana law reform is needed
by
(The Kansas City Star, JUN 03, 2014) Read it here
Stevens, H, (2014,Jun 03). Adults-only marijuana law reform is needed. The Kansas City Star. Taken from http://www.kansascity.com. (Read on November 19, 2014).
Summary
Marijuana law reform would save tax dollars and unclog the courts. In Colorado crime rates have dropped. The incomes from pot legalization includes tourism and academic mobility. Some states have already reform possesions penalty and it has showed a positive impact in legal processes. However lgalizing has social costs such as access to minors, stoned-driving and abuse.
Commentary
The article begins itemizing the benefits and the some arguments pro-legalization but it reminds us that marijuana is not harmless as many discourses claim. For that reason, the author calls to peruse the issue and take into account all the risk legalization could bring. I think the author identifies some weaknesses in advocates discourse and set the alarm to a more concious approach on law reform. 
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