Drug Czar-Marijuana Legalization "Non-Starter" for Obama
by Gil Kerlikowske, Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy
The Department of Justice earlier this week issued guidelines for Federal prosecutors regarding laws authorizing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. This prompted a flurry of news reports, analysis and commentary, some arguing that the guidelines could be read as the Federal government's tacit approval of “medical” marijuana. Advocates of marijuana legalization tried to cast the guidelines as a victory, portraying them as a step toward full legalization. Neither of these analyses is correct.
Marijuana legalization, for any purpose, remains a non-starter in the Obama Administration. It is not something that the President and I discuss; it isn't even on the agenda. Attorney General Holder issued very clear guidelines to U.S. Attorneys about the appropriate use of Federal resources. He did not open the door to legalization.
Regarding state ballot initiatives concerning “medical” marijuana, I believe that medical questions are best decided not by popular vote, but by science. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which studies and approves all medicines in the United States, has made very clear that the raw marijuana plant is not medicine, and any state considering medical marijuana should look very carefully at what has happened in California.
Legalization is being sold as being a cure to ending violence in Mexico, as a cure to state budget problems, as a cure to health problems. The American public should be skeptical of anyone selling one solution as a cure for every single problem. Legalized, regulated drugs are not a panacea—pharmaceutical drugs in this country are tightly regulated and government controlled, yet we know they cause untold damage to those who abuse them.
To test the idea of legalizing and taxing marijuana, we only need to look at already legal drugs—alcohol and tobacco. We know that the taxes collected on these substances pale in comparison to the social and health care costs related to their widespread use.
In a little over three months, my office will deliver to President Obama a National Drug Control Strategy that will strike a balance between public health and public safety, recognizing that reducing demand through a community-wide approach is critical to our success. Legalization would only thwart our efforts and increase the economic and social costs that result from greater drug acceptance and use.
Drug Czar-Marijuana Legalization "Non-Starter" for Obama
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You're in the wrong
Unfortunately Gil, you and the administration then are still attempting to thwart the will of the people, which every year gains support for legalization.
Law Enforcement wants to keep it illegal under the guise of protecting children , but fortunately nobody with an IQ above their shoe size is buying this rhetoric any more.
Keeping marijuana illegal is no longer just an act of political self defense or even misplaced well meaning. It is nothing but pure cowardice plain and simple.
- Victoryspeaker
October 28, 2009 2:13PM
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No More Police State
Dear Mr. Drug "Czar",
As your name implies, the Drug War is something straight out of the Stalinist Soviet Union. The very existence of your office means that our Constitutional rights have been compromised.
Leave the American People alone! The DEA is nothing but a collection of jack-booted thugs, putting minorities and seriously ill patients in prison.
Your office, sir, is a disgrace to America. I served my country, I put my life on the line for this country, and what do YOU do? Arrest, convict and hijack the lives of innocent Americans , Americans that don't want to drink your poisonous licquor and beer. You also enrich teh cartels and destabilize governments all with the very same policies. You represent a dangerous and outdated policy that has to go.
Regardless of what you think, America WILL legalize cannabis , state by state if necessary. You will be defeated, and Americans WILL be able to control their own bodies, whether or not YOU like it.
- dp63
October 28, 2009 2:46PM
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You are not an American
What pales in comparison to the taxes we retain from Alcohol/Tobacco sales are the ridiculous expenses of the marijuana prohibition's enforcement and incarceration costs in addition to the forgone tax revenues we could have from taxing Marijuana.
Given an honest look at both sides of the prohibition debate, only a fool would conclude a need to harm other-wise law -abiding citizens for possessing this plant that has negative properties not even as damaging as the big two legal recreational drugs you cite in your article.
I conclude, given your erroneous stance on the matter, that for some other reason unknown to the general public, you have some agenda to constrict the freedom of Americans and/or support that constriction therein. Since Americans stand for upholding civic freedoms, and you so staunchly stand in the way of it, you must not be an American.
So what the hell are you?
Did you know that "legalization" is not the same thing as "Advocation?". I'm just sayin...
- WesDay
October 28, 2009 2:57PM
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Bring it down a little
Wes, I definitely appreciate your passion and agree that freedom is a core American ideal, in general and in this particular instance, but saying this guy is un-American is a bit much IMHO. I think it is fair to say that his position is un-American based on the facts on the ground and American ideals, but let's be careful not to throw ad hominems. This is addressed to many other commenters as well. I think a far more simple explanation is a political one. That is, even if a majority supports a particular viewpoint, the level of political activeness of the minority can still lead to politicians going with the minority. We do need to continue pushing this issue, and I believe we will succeed, but not by labeling people as un-American and ascribing motives. Certainly there are forces like the pharmaceutical industry trying to preserve the status quo, but unless you can clearly link an individual to such an industry or group, let's stick with the merits of our argument.
- ToddG
October 29, 2009 10:40AM
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Money is the Agenda
When you consider that over 1/2 the ONDCP budget is justified by keeping marijuana illegal ,the agenda may be no more than a bureaucrat tryig to hold on to his part of the budget. We are speaking billions of dollars and many agencies that are paid because marijuana is illegal. What happens to the drug testing industry if marijuana legalized?
Companies will have to purchase the "under the influence" tester for sensitive type jobs instead of possible usage within 6 weeks.
It will be one of the largest shifts in wealth without anyone stealing money from anyone ever.
- Clay
October 29, 2009 4:57PM
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Possibilities?
I can't say for sure what would happen, but I could suggest some reasons for why those people shouldn't be so worried. There would be a shake-up, but a reorganization could still lead to those people keeping their jobs , though maybe not with the same tasks. For one thing the drug would still be a drug and it would be regulated. It would still be illegal for children & teens and there would still be a campaign against drug use by minors. Also there are other drugs that could use greater attention. As for the testing industry, even if marijuana becomes legal that doesn't mean companies can't demand a drug-free work-force. Depending on the legislation that deals with legalization, you could have a rather small impact on jobs and workers . I'm not sure how that would work with the federal or state governments though.
- ToddG
October 29, 2009 5:22PM
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baseless accusations
Whenever someone argues that marijuana should not be legalized, all sorts of ulterior economic motives are mentioned. Why not accept that some people believe marijuana use is not good for society and causes problems in people's lives? Maybe people don't want to see an increase in underage drug use or have their kids addicted to marijuana before they are 16 or don't want more people driving on the road stoned or don't want all the other side effects of another smoked substance foisted on them? You may disagree with them, but please don't assume motives as if no one could possibly sincerely believe marijuana causes harm.
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:01PM
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Baseless?
The problem is that those who claim they want to keep marijuana illegal because they "don't want to see an increase in underage drug use or have their kids addicted to marijuana before they are 16 or don't want more people driving on the road stoned" are careful to ignore the overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
For example, youth use rates are lower in Holland and went down in states that liberalized cannabis posssession laws.(1) Cannabis consuming drivers were shown to be safer behind the wheel than "sober" participants (2)
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decriminalization_of_non-medical_cannabis_in_the_United_States
1a. http://www.cga.ct.gov/lrc/drugpolicy/drugpolicyrpt2.htm #SecD7
2. http://www.cannabisculture.com/articles/1775.html
Such omission of exculpatory evidence extends to courtrooms in hundreds of thousands of cases across the country, despite the existence of long standing felony penalties for the suppression of exculpatory evidence at trial.
Who sincerely believes marijuana causes harm? Those whose paychecks or social standing requires blind adherence to policies unsupportable by fact or case law ? Those who ignore the history and comparative safety and efficacy of cannabis vs. legal poisons?
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 5:30PM
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Sorry
Will all due respect sir the Majority of Americans don't want your policy. It is a crime against democracy to arrest and jail people against the will of the people and that's exactly what you guys are doing in regards to Pot. Even if support for Legalization of Marijuana was at 51% that 1% means that the very Laws you are enforcing are NOT JUSTIFIED regardless of ignorant opinions. You guys are all really bad people with no respect for democracy. Due to the consequences of breaking Laws one would think undeniable evidence of a concensous on the issue would be a must. Marijuana does not hold a candle to the destructive powers of alcohol and tobacco and almost everyone knows that. Please stop these crimes against democracy and the war against AT LEAST 20 MILLION Americans. Don't you watch the News!! the gig is up.
- todd432
October 28, 2009 3:09PM
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Gils Voice of Reason
In society today adults have to make millions of important decisions, a lot of which can have a drastic effect on their lives, even death. We are responsible for our choices, and we suffer and prosper from our choices, its what makes each individual who they ultimately become. This is called freedom of choice, ownership of ones self. We are legally allowed to make these choices everyday, including many that can be instantly fatal such as riding recreational dirt bikes for the thrill of it, even though it could cost us our lives, its our choice to make.
By trying to force people into not consuming a natural plant we are effectively causing more harm than if we were to let each adult make their own choices and except the consequences for those choices. The harm prohibition has brought to not just our own country, but the vast majority of the world is on a remarkably large scale, and threatens our national security. By choosing to prohibit this substance, we have chosen to ignore it and to let it be controlled by the black market. This in turn has enriched criminal enterprises to the point they have the financial power to compete with their own governments on a military bases as seen in Mexico. This is a national security threat. Marijuana is less harmful than alcohol , and the majority of citizens know this, this in turn creates disrespect for law enforcement thereby furthering the deterioration of our community as a whole. It is inhumane to lock a person in a cage and take away their belongings they worked for when they did nothing to harm any other individual or society as a whole. Current marijuana laws are a civil rights nightmare waiting to happen, and only makes marijuana readily available to anyone of any age. The laws are obviously bad, expensive and unyielding in accomplishments. We spend billions each year to try and stop marijuana consumption, and yet the DEA admits they would be surprised if they are even getting 1% of the drugs being transported. That’s a bad investment, and the majorities do not agree with it, and there is no justification for making marijuana illegal in the first place.
Prohibition is bad for our kids as they have complete access to it as long as its being controlled by the black market, what we need is control and regulation to minimize the exposure of drugs to young children . As long as it is illegal or decriminalized there will be a black market selling it at a marked up value because of risk, and all the harm will continue.
By legalizing marijuana we are effectively controlling its distribution, and can much better regulate its use by age limits.
Simply put, it’s a real no brainer and it will eventually happen, so if it’s not working now, and has the potential to be better why would we stay put?
Let’s not continue to turn regular tax paying citizens into tax burdens for the rest of us,
there comes a time when you have to realize a bad investment is a bad investment.
Please help us do the right thing, listen to the people of California who have bravely stood up for a positive change in our society, drugs may not bee good for us, but prohibition has proven far worse.
- Guest Guest
October 28, 2009 3:12PM
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Mixed message
In one breath you are calling marijuana a natural plant that we should be able to consume and in the next you say kids should not consume it. If it is so harmless and natural, why is it not good for kids? Making it legal just sends a big green light to kids so consumption will be even higher.
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:05PM
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Is that true?
If you sincerely believe it to be true that making cannabis legal "sends a big green light to kids so consumption will be even higher", then how do you explain the fact of lower youth use rates in places with liberalized cannabis laws?
http://www.ucsc.edu/currents/03-04/05-03/drug_study.html
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 5:35PM
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clearing things up
Yes, marijuana is a natural plant we should be able to consume as mature adults who understand the consequences. Just like many natural things such as sex , it is best we teach our kids all the truths and possible pleasures and dangers that can result when experimenting with such things before letting them engage. Its a parents job to properly prepare their kids for the real world.
Marijuana is not harmless and I never said such a thing, it is however safer then alcohol and tobacco and should not be treated any differently as this sends a mixed message and further creates confusion when it comes to people understanding the truths about marijuana, and as we have seen it can result in innocent people spending their lives in a cage for no reason. Instead of being so worried about people using a plant to relax you should worry about the cruel and inhumane conditions in which regular every day people are being subjected to, it seems a bit more important doesn't it?
- Guest Guest
November 5, 2009 11:24AM
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Pretty Strange Scientific Method
If legalization is not in your vocabulary — if it's a non-starter, that's not even discussed, and is not on the agenda — then how can you know that it's the wrong option?
The drug czar is like some cartoon scientist shouting at the top of his lungs "Don't show me any data. I already know the answer."
Now Gil, if you already had a system that was perfect — one that eliminated all the harms from drug abuse without causing any others — then you might be able to justify some kind of cocky self-righteous "I don't care about your ideas" viewpoint.
But you're the guy in the bottom of a pit trying to dig your way out while disdainfully and insultingly rejecting the rope ladder that's been lowered to you.
- DrugWarRant
October 28, 2009 3:29PM
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Gil and Obama's hands are tied
By law , they can not even so much as discuss legalization, it comes with the position in which they fill.
Now I may be wrong, but based on Mr. Gil's facial expressions during the California DEA raids press conference in which he stated that legalization wasn't in his or Mr. Obama's vocabulary, it sure seemed like he was forced to say those things against his will, he did not look like a man that believed in his own words that day, and it seemed intentional. Now this new release really sounds like they are making one thing clear, and that is that they as in their administration is not promoting legalization and that they will not be the ones to "start" it, because they cant by law. It sure seems like they are inviting the rest of the world to "start" the process, especially the states. If this theory is true, then it would make sense that they didn't change federal medical marijuana laws, they only made it known that they no longer have the resources to enforce those laws. This accomplishes them opening the door for "others" to start the legalization talks without their administration being subject to breaking their own laws. I truly believe they do not want to have a showdown with any state on the matter of legalization, and with CA pushing for legalization by way of a public vote , its inevitably going to happen at some point, so the Feds are getting their ducks in a row as to not stand in our way. I truly think that even the Feds are seeing this as an unavoidable situation. The most recent polls show its right on their doorstep.
Not holding my breath, but it seems possible.
Anyone else seeing anything similar?
- Guest Guest
October 28, 2009 4:10PM
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Drug Czar Say's No to Legal Cannabis
As pointed out by a guest it is illegal for our federal gov't and its employees to legally discuss or say anything positive about marijuana in any way. Until marijuana is removed from Schedule I it will remain that way. The State of Iowa will probably legalize medical marijuana in 2010 by removing it from Schedule I and then notifying the DEA that Marijuana does not fit the definition for Schedule I. This is the only way to protect states MMJ patients from federal interference. If Iowa successfully legalizes MMJ and removes it from state Schedule I, I see many other states doing what we are doing here in Iowa. The Iowa Board Of Pharmacy has already stated on www.politics.com that they will recommend to the Iowa Legislature to legalize MMJ (Medical Marijuana)for Iowa in 2010, remove it from Schedule I then notify the DEA of the removal of marijuana from schedule and demand that the DEA do the same on the federal level. By law the DEA should have removed marijuana from federal Schedule I in 1996 when California legalized MMJ. It will take a lawsuit to get this done but we have the perfect man for the job here in Iowa, his name is Carl Olsen. If we succeed in Iowa, by law, the DEA will have no choice. So Gil is forced to say these lies because of marijuana being in Schedule I. When that changes so will everything else.
- eltone
October 28, 2009 5:01PM
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Oh poor Gil
Give us that crap that he has to say what he says. No one says he has to say anything. He didn't have to go out of his way to write this article, did he?
His office and his job violate the Constitution, and my rights as an American. Your too. Do us all a favor and quit taking up for our oppressors, ok?
- dp63
October 28, 2009 9:04PM
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Prohibition was great.
It solved all the pesky problems caused by demon rum. Oh wait, it did no such thing. Prohibition filled the pockets of violent gangsters, just like weed, coke, meth, and everything else that is banned.
The negative effects of prohibition can be seen everywhere. Why must this failed policy continue?
- MilitiaJim October 28, 2009 5:53PM
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Follow the logic, Gil
Ok, so the tax revenue from tobacco and alcohol pales in comparison to their associated costs. That's a good argument and I bet if someone quantified the societal stuff and added it all up, I bet you'd be right. I mean, cigarettes have the cancer warnings right on the package. And we all know that alcohol poisoning can kill on any given night. Yet, the inherent thing that isn't mentioned, but we both agree on, is that cigarettes and alcohol need to remain legal .
Surely you have the power to outlaw both of these dangerous substances, but you don't, because you know the costs of prohibiting either cigarettes or alcohol would be fantastically huge in comparison to the tax revenue minus societal costs gap you were referring to in your article. We already saw the result of alcohol prohibition in the early 20th century. And we see it now with marijuana prohibition.
So why not have legal regulated markets for marijuana. Why are you incapable of applying the same logic with alcohol and cigarettes to a less harmful drug? Everyone know it's less harmful than the aforementioned two and even less habit forming than coffee according to numerous scientific peer reviewed journals.
I'm probably just wasting my time, however, because the hypocrisy of your position on alcohol/cigarettes/marijuana indicates you understand and ignore common sense because you have other motivations. For example, the Office of National Drug Control Policy would have a significantly smaller budget if marijuana was re-legalized. That's just a fact.
It's a little bit of an awkward position for you, huh? Imagine
- dave56713 October 28, 2009 6:01PM
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Prohibition does not work
He can talk about all the harm that legal drugs have caused while he still can't admit that marijuana has never killed anyone.
We are still at war with this idiot,and his boss.
The sad part about his statement that marijuana legalization is not a fix-all for many of today's problems and a health issue too,when it actually is.
When we legalize,1/2 his budget is in jeopardy,and 70% of the cartels cash flow ends when we harvest our own. Can he come up with a policy that will reduce that much cashf low from the US?
- Clay
October 28, 2009 6:35PM
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Legalizing will dry up supply
The law is clearly wrong, but it may be a second term thing for Obama. Imagine what Fox would do to this? There would be guns on the street (oh sorry, you in US already have that!). Do you reckon the dealers want it? Do you think dealers would not kill anybody to protect their business? The rednecks who get all riled up by Fox who now are upset over health care , imagine how Fox would play on their fears.
The only reason why drug use is widespread is because it is illegal . Because it is illegal, there are major profits to be made, and many of those who are addicted cannot afford it, so they have to sell in order to be able to use it, so they find new markets like schools .
Take away the profit incentive, and who in their right mind would go to Bolivia, to Asia, to run drugs ?
Clearly from watching The Wire, many people's lives are consumed by drugs, by the business, the culture, and many communities destroyed. Imagine if in The Wire drugs were sold at a shop, or hospital? Maybe the gangs would find something else, maybe police and jail resources could be invested in more useful inclusive projects?
Legalise drugs then Taliban has no money , Burma has no money, cartels in Sth America have no money, terrorists have no money, legalizing drugs would eradicate more blights than other other single measure.
I recommend Catherine Austin-Fitts's talk on this subject from 3-4 yeas ago where she showed that legalising drugs would bust Wall St. Along with the major hit to GDP legalisation would bring - towns are dependent on prisons for income etc - the economic side is perhaps one aspect that pro drug people need to understand.
My two bobs worth!
- Markob
October 28, 2009 6:41PM
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ridiculous argument
The argument that drug use is widespread because it is illegal cannot be supported by the evidence. Illegal drug use is a fraction of legal tobacco and alcohol use which supports the idea that legal substances are more used. Drugs are illegal because they are harmful; they are not harmful because illegal. They have been linked to crime , violence, health hazards, addiction, driving accidents, psychological problems, learning problems, etc. So making them legal will make the problem go away? You have the exact thinking that the drug czar is criticizing here.
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:11PM
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No.
The historical record is clear cannabis was prohibited on racial grounds and other persuasive yet demonstrably false claims that were made to Congress by Harry Anslinger.
Furthermore, legal alternatives to marijuana present far more harmful effects and have much clearer links to crime , violence and health hazards. Making them illegal would decrease access to treatment and increase those very problems, just as the historical precedent of alcohol prohibition proved.
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 5:44PM
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Look carefully at California
Americans talk too much. We get into heated debates, become polarized, and disrespect each other in the bargain. Usually the truth is not entirely with either side.
The great thing is we can soon stop talking and see how it plays out in real life. If California turns into the disaster for GK, it will be a disaster for the rest of us as well.
There are real problems out there, serious issues like the cartels, gangs, and hard drug addiction . These are the matters GK has to wrestle with and we all should wish him well as he faces these challenges.
If California proves us right, I suspect GK will be as pleased as anybody.
- imvho
October 29, 2009 7:10AM
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California medical marijuana disaster
I don't know what you mean when you say California. City officials are seeing the problems with the proliferation of medical marijuana dispensaries which are not operating according to state guidelines and where most patients are not ill with serious diseases. Kids are selling their medical marijuana to high school students . College kids are open about getting cards so they can get high. If the state cannot regulate dispensaries, how could we regulate legal marijuana ?
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:15PM
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Every beta test has some bugs...
Health care issues are complex. Medical marijuana is no exception.
As one would expect with any new system, there are some glitches. As you point out:
1. Some dispensaries are not operating according to the regulations .
2. Some patients are illegally transferring medicine to unauthorized individuals.
3. Some patients who should not be getting prescriptions are obtaining them.
These problems are not limited to mm, they exist throughout the prescription medicine system. You have no doubt seen the public service ads warning parents to lock up their vicodin, amphetamines, and other drugs desired by high schoolers.
Recent reports have indicated the demand and use of prescription drugs by high schoolers exceeds that of alcohol and marijuana.
The regulation process has to be refined, and not just for marijuana. As far as the dispensaries go, progress is being made, and the feds are helping out as well. The crooks need to be shut down.
California needs to get this right for everybody's sake. The world is watching!
- imvho
November 4, 2009 4:12PM
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So?
And what has been the result? Have deaths from car accidents increased? How about the homicide rate, or the prevalence of schizophrenia? The answer remains, NO!
We can regulate marijuana the same way we regulate salt, spinach or tomatoes, because it is safer, period.
Salt kills:
http://tinyurl.com/saltkills
Spinach kills:
http://tinyurl.com/yahrewf
Tomatoes kill:
http://tinyurl.com/ybjsl3y
Marijuana does not kill:
http://tinyurl.com/deathsfrommarijuana
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 5:59PM
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Woodstock Supports Legalization
Valid medicinal value, it’s a victimless crime , the War on Drugs WAY too costly, too many arrests for simple possession, tax it and use the money to pay for health insurance and to reduce the deficit . Need I say more?
Woodstock Universe supports legalization for a variety of reasons. Check them out and vote in our poll "Should marijuana be legalized?" at http://woodstockuniverse.com
Current poll results: 96% for legalization and 4% opposed.
Add your vote. Poll runs through October.
Peace, love, music, one world,
RFWoodstock
- RFWoodstock
October 29, 2009 10:05AM
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Another Point of View
Gil,
Perhaps my first post was too harsh. I'd like to think someone in your position is intelligent and open minded, so how about this:
-On what grounds did the Federal Government make marijuana illegal in the first place?
It was made illegal, almost on a whim, and when people want some accountability it becomes a "no-go" because it would, let's be honest, cost two industries you SEEM to care about more than American civil rights: Law Enforcement and the privatized prison industry.
You like cops, want more cops and therefore, if they have one thing less to prosecute we'll need less cops.
I know all about your family issues, but a wise man wouldn't blame the drugs : he'd hold people directly accountable for their actions, intoxicated or not. A wise man would realize that, for every pothead driving behind the wheel there's a dozen others at home minding their own business.
A wise man would realize that, by continuing prohibition you make it so that people who will smoke pot anyway (regardless of how personally distasteful you or any other politician finds it), have to deal with black market individuals.
Let me put that differently: the only place an otherwise law abiding citizen can GET pot is from a drug dealer.
What happens if your child is caught with a joint? Suddenly they lose out on a chance to go to college just because they tried marijuana? Nonsense.
To quote the protestors who started the storm that ended Alcohol prohibition: WE WANT POT, BUT WE ALSO WANT JOBS!
You will lose this war , it's inevitable.
- Victoryspeaker
October 29, 2009 12:20PM
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Also, in addition
Check out this link: http://www.411mania.com/politics/columns/109235/411-Politics-Fact-or-Fiction :-Week-132-–-The-War-on-Drugs-Edition:-Volume-I.htm
Madcap Unlimited shreds EVERY SINGLE ARGUMENT in favor of keeping marijuana illegal .
- Victoryspeaker
October 29, 2009 12:22PM
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Let's put the drug gangs out of business
I'm sick of the idea that criminal drug dealers might try to get my kids involved in drugs just to make a buck. Let's put the drug gangs out of business. Let's allow individuals to grow a little marijuana for personal use. Limit the size of the growing area or the number of plants, and put a small user-fee on it to cover administrative costs, something like a fishing license. Maybe high enough that there will be a little something left over for education or fixing the roads.
One possibility:$100 per year for a permit to cultivate a dozen plants.
It's a win-win.
- Concerned Parent
October 29, 2009 12:32PM
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get rid of the greed
If the drug marijuana was decriminalized.Then the greed factor would be a mute point,and the fear of violence would lessen.The billions of dollars spent on a war on drugs .We could have one great health care system.The war on drugs.We haven't even won the war on poverty .The DEA causes family separations,death,and the money to be made by the drug dealers is enormous,but to decriminalize would get rid of the dealers,and get some of the non violent drug offenders out of prison.So we can put real criminals in jail.
- bogus
October 29, 2009 3:54PM
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Concerned parent
Your child will just as likely be able to get medical marijuana from a supposedly law -abiding patient or from his best friend who got it from his dad. I'm sure all those small growers will willingly apply for these user fees, just like those who employ illegal aliens would do the same. A user fee for a few plants would be impossible to police .
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:20PM
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Again, what's your point?
Impossible to police . So, is it true that you think refusing legal access makes it easier to police? On what basis do you come to this conclusion, please?
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 6:02PM
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Thank you Kerlikowske!
Some of us who live in California are very grateful for this!
The fact is, Californian's have been scammed into " medical marijuana " and we are demanding that it is stopped!
Oakland's Oaksterdam University and the marijuana dispensary attached are using drug money to fund a 2010 ballot initiative to legalize marijuana. We sincerely hope that the Federal Government will step in and shut them down!
Make no mistake, law abiding citizen's have a constitutional right against marijuana legalization. We are sick and tired of the far left attempting to dictate policy to the entire state, and we will not be silenced!
- Activist1
October 29, 2009 4:31PM
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Amen
I join you in thanking our new drug czar , and hope he will have all success in meeting the considerable challenges of this job.
Drug cartels, gangs, and hard drug addiction are serious threats to society . I'm sure all of us on both sides of the marijuana issue want these problems solved and support GK on this front.
Law abiding citizens have a right to decide for themselves on every issue of their lives, smoking , drinking, and recreational drug use included.
You are welcome to your own choices, please extend the same courtesy to the rest of us.
- imvho
October 29, 2009 11:57PM
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imvho
I hear the same excuse from legalizers across the board, "it's my body, I can do what I want with it."... Well, I'm sorry to break this to you, but drug use affects everyone not just the user.
What would you like me to tell my neighbor who had all of his work tools stolen recently?
Would you like me to tell him that he's just dead wrong, the thieves pesonal drug use had nothing to do with him stealing the tools?
Give me a break.
- Activist1
October 30, 2009 10:23AM
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Your point is well taken...
Criminal conduct must be punished, and where we can, prevented. You are making a strong case for prevention, and this is a worthy concern.
Your passion is understandable, and I have no doubt, it would be even greater if your friend or loved one had been injured or killed by someone who abused a substance, even a legal one such as alcohol .
With all due respect, and I mean it sincerely, the percentage of those who abuse a substance such as alcohol or marijuana , is very low compared to those who are responsible. It is not the substance perse but rather the character of the individual that matters here.
An individual is responsible for his own actions. "I was drunk" is never a legal defense for criminal conduct. And the thief of your neighbor's tools most probably would have stolen them regardless of his preference for marijuana.
Allowing the federal government to make our personal choices for us is a form of tyranny. Whether we are conservative, independent, or liberal, Americans should not permit these encroachments.
I hope we can all move toward a society where crime is prevented or reduced and person liberties are protected. And this begins with the kind of dialog we are now having.
- imvho
October 30, 2009 1:39PM
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Really?
And exactly what HARM has come to you or your community through the medical marijuana system? Have they mugged you? Intimidated you? Theft? Burgurlary? Or is it that you are too narrow-minded to try and understand a position different than your own? By the way, you have NO right to make marijuana illegal . FYI, Marijuana is a PLANT, it was created by GOD and his opinion outweighs YOURS. It is a plant that has every right to exist, and we as people have every right to use it.
You're nothing but a biggoted witch-hunter. I bet you are against Civil Rights too, aren't you? Against interracial marriage too? You just want your Pure, White Male Christian Amerikka, don't you? You disgust me.
- dp63
October 30, 2009 9:44AM
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Explain your logic, Activist1
Linda, answer me this, which do you think is more harmful to your body, marijuana or alcohol ?
If you think marijuana is more harmful, you're wrong. We know this. It's been proven, many times. In the short and long term, and in excess and small amounts.
If you think alcohol is more harmful, you're right. So why do you advocate sending a less harmful drug into the black market?
- dave56713 October 30, 2009 12:18PM
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What are you going to do?
Mr. Drug Czar,
What are you going to do when California legalizes marijuana ? Are you going to declare war on the entire state?
How do you address the studies done by Dr. Tashkin who PROVED marijuana does not cause cancer or COPD? In fact, he results show a slight protective effect? What about THAT science ? The government comissioned that study, that's YOUR science at work. Why don't you admit THAT?
In fact, why don't you exlplain to ALL of us just how the DEA is supported by the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights? Can you explain how arrestiing a young person and then taking away their ability to get a school loan helps anyone?
How can military -equipped police forces who break into houses, shoot family pets and murder 92 year old women be justified in America?
So, tell us again why the hell the DEA exists? When did we become the Bad Guys?
- dp63
October 30, 2009 9:39AM
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Legalizarion will thwart the will of law abiding citizens
What legalizers fail to comprehend is that we have a constitutional right against legalization.
Legalization will not stop drug cartels. a cartels fortune doesn't come from just marijuana , they also traffick in cocaine , meth, stolen goods, guns , and people. marijuana is only a small portion of their empire.
Legalization will not solve the budget crisis.
For every $1.00 raised in taxes , we would spend $8.00 in societal costs, such as crime , healthcare , lost productivity, etc..
...and just for the record, all these screen names are not different people commenting. They are a small group using multiple names. I see this happen on website after website.
One Message, One Voice, No Use.
- Activist1
October 30, 2009 10:16AM
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Constitutional Right!?
Bizarre. We have a constitutional right to liberty. The federal law lacks merit.
I want to purchase my medical-grade cannabis wherever I can walk in and buy whiskey and cigars TODAY.
Keeping cannabis illegal while tobacco and alcohol are dispensed freely is *MURDEROUSLY STUPID*.
"Make the most of the Indian Hemp seed, and sow it everywhere".
- rsteeb
October 30, 2009 10:45AM
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Hey Dipshit Activist1
"Legalizers"? "Constitutional rights against legalization"? Is that YOU, Mr. JOHN ENGLISH? Sounds like your diatribe and illogic.
For the record, Mr. Locksmith, the Constitution (of the United States anyway) affords you NO SUCH THING. You might actually go and read it. They actually AMENDED the Constitution (of the United States) to make alchohol illegal , then RE-AMENDED it to re-legalize it.
I don't know which Constitution YOU are referring to, maybe the Constitution of Nazi Germany, I don't know. But in THIS country we have supossedly GUARANTEED FREEDOMS which our wonderful government has decided to IGNORE.
As far as YOU go, "Activist1", why don't you just jump in the lake?
- dp63
October 30, 2009 3:22PM
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Nice work
You managed to take a perfectly legitimate argument and package it with petty namecalling and rudeness.
Activist1 may be passionate, she may disagree with you, but she doesn't deserve to be disrespected.
Seriously, dude, you have some good things to say. Try treating people decently and you might be surprised how much better it works.. and feels.
- imvho
October 30, 2009 9:45PM
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Legitimate??
While I agree name calling is nonproductive, there's little evidence that there is any legitimacy to the concept of a "constitutional right against legalization ". Indeed, the law is clear we have unalienable rights to liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Furthermore, there's ample proof in the Congressional Record that perjury was and continues to remain the method by which prohibitionists convince our lawmakers to suppress access to cannabis under color of law .
- Historicus
November 4, 2009 6:09PM
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Absolutely
I agree that dp63 has a legitimate argument, I simply regret the way he packaged it.
As far as rights go, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" pretty much says it all. These rights are "self-evident truths" and "endowed by our Creator". We should no more need to "legalize" marijuana than we need to "legalize" apples.
I'm no angel, but it seems to me the main point of these discussions is to get people to change their minds, or at least begin listening to some of what we say. So how to you win someone over if you are busy dissing them?
I'm just sayin'...
- imvho
November 4, 2009 10:16PM
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What if...?
What if the entire basis for making marijuana a Class I prohibited substance was false? What if its responsible use is no more harmful than that of cigarettes or alcoholic beverages? What if the entire campaign against it were based on prejudice, misinformation and outright lies about its effects? What happens to your "constitutional right against legalization " then?
I challenge you to do as I have done and read some of the material put out by legalization activists. You may find some disturbing information. One good place to begin is Jack Herer's "The Emperor Wears No Clothes", available at http://www.onlinepot.org/grow/jackherer.htm . (I am not acquainted with Mr. Herer, nor am I a marijuana user myself.)
- jochanaan
November 4, 2009 12:34PM
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Wrong
First of all, this is my first post on this thread, though I readily admit that I have commented often about this subject. So let's just be clear: you are going on record saying that I made every pro- legalization comment on this thread? I am happy to report that you are wrong.
Marijuana is more than a "small portion" of their empire (which is fueled, completely, by prohibition). The Washington Post reported "60% of the cartels' revenue - $8.6 billion out of $13.8 billion in 2006 - came from U.S. marijuana sales, according to the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy."
As for the budget crisis, people are already smoking marijuana, so the societal costs, be there any, are already being absorbed. Since we're already paying for it, then why don't we collect a tax on it? That argument doesn't hold water either.
Look... we've heard all of these objections before, and they just don't pass the sniff test. That doesn't mean you won't win again. Racism, ignorance, and the socialist mentality run deep in America... in my estimation, these are your allies.
- Chris
November 4, 2009 4:43PM
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From the right
I'm sorry but I just can't bite my tongue any longer. In spite of your accusations, not all of us who support legalizations are from the "far left". I am not now, nor have I ever been a Democrat, although I have voted for one or two. I was previously a Republican, but now am a self-labeled independent conservative. I do not smoke marijuana and have no interest in it. But I have known plenty of otherwise law -abiding, gainfully employed, fully-functional acquaintances who did. If they had been caught they would have been prosecuted and possibly jailed at great expense to myself and other taxpayers...for what? They have been doing this for years and never hurt anyone.
You have no proof that your neighbors tool theft was drug related. They could have stolen the tools to buy video games or food for their kids for all you know, so stop making wild, unfounded accusations. And if you can't then please don't pretend to be a conservative because we are for less government , not more.
- jesuissb
November 5, 2009 12:24AM
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Be an angel of grace
People who use cannabis should give to their communities if they want respect. Start organizing and helping your communities out in these tough times.
Organize a free senior car wash or something else but give freely and soon they will see you are not a contagious disease but an angel of grace.
Let genius weigh in on the issue of cannabis...
The illegality of cannabis is outrageous, an impediment to full utilization of a drug which helps produce the serenity and insight, sensitivity and fellowship so desperately needed in this increasingly mad and dangerous world."
- Carl Sagan quote on Marijuana
“The prestige of government has undoubtedly been lowered considerably by the prohibition law . For nothing is more destructive of respect for the government and the law of the land than passing laws which cannot be enforced. It is an open secret that the dangerous increase of crime in this country is closely connected with this.” - Albert Einstein quote on Cannabis
Let the conservative view weigh in on the issue of cannabis…
"Even if one takes every reefer madness allegation of the prohibitionists at face value, marijuana prohibition has done far more harm to far more people than marijuana ever could."
- William F. Buckley Jr. quote on Marijuana
"When a private enterprise fails, it is closed down; when a government enterprise fails, it is expanded. Isn’t that exactly what’s been happening with drugs ?"
- Milton Friedman quote on Marijuana
If everyone in the world who enjoys cannabis disappeared like that movie "A day without a Mexican" maybe the rest of the world would finally get an idea of our importance and stop their discrimination !
A day will come when referring to us as pot heads will be considered politically incorrect…that much I am certain of.
- RealityChk
November 1, 2009 2:56PM
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Discrimination?
Smokers tried to cry discrimination when second hand smoke ordinances were being passed. You don't see alcoholics saying that they are discriminated against. Alcoholism is a disease and wrecks people's lives. Potheads implies substance abuse and it is a social problem, not a persecuted minority.
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:41PM
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Hijacking this forum!
Since there are more cannabis supporters in this forum I hope they are not accused of hijacking it again like when President Obama's people accused them after the online Town Hall meeting last March 09...Remember what he said regarding the number one question? He said he did not know what it says about the online community and laughed them and their number one question off.
- RealityChk
November 1, 2009 3:07PM
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Question for Gil -
Dear Mr. Kerlikowske, In your statement:
"To test the idea of legalizing and taxing marijuana , we only need to look at already legal drugs — alcohol and tobacco . We know that the taxes collected on these substances pale in comparison to the social and health care costs related to their widespread use."
Can you name any health or social problems caused by marijuana in a regulated taxed atmosphere? As of now, there is no law regulating marijuana except it's being illegal . This causes health problems - stress, paranoia, fear of being busted. I can think of a lot more severe problems from tobacco - cancer and emphesyma. Alcohol - Drunk driving accidents, violence, and the worst. Can you name anything as serious with the use of marijuana? Other than getting overweight and fat? I can't either. Even better would be marijuana consumed in regulation! Then it will be done with even greater respect and care than it is now. The people have spoken! We want our WEED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- kinesis
November 2, 2009 10:54PM
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Drug Czar is wrong
As an MD, PhD toxicologist, I have better credentials in this area than the drug czar or for that matter anybody who ever worked or the US government in this area.
In fact, I briefly toyed applying for the drug czar job before realizing that liberarian beliefs and my favorable attitude toward the second amendment completely exclude me from any high administrative job.
Besides, which, the last thing the government wants in the drug czar's job is somebody who actually knows something about drugs and drug abuse. Mr. Kerlikowske has just proved my assessment right...
- sesquiculus
November 4, 2009 1:15PM
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Same Old Rhetoric
Mr. Gil K. would be out of a job if things changed, so no wonder he is opposed to progress.
Support Medical Cannabis Access
Florida Voters: Download Florida petition at:
http://www.pufmm.org/petition.php
In California: vote YES on Legalizing Marijuana at:
www.yes390.org
Support Leap.cc - Police Against Prohibition
Support MPP.org - MJ Lobby in Wash, DC
- scottportraits1
November 4, 2009 1:35PM
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wrong
The Drug Czar would still have to deal with other illegal drugs if cannabis were legalized, so he wouldn't be out of a job. A stoner society is not my idea of progress. We already have enough substance abuse with alcohol and tobacco , and we don't need another smoked substance that young people get hooked on and destroy their futures. Marijuana provides no tangible benefit to society that can't be provided by a healthier alternative.
- Lynn9
November 4, 2009 2:29PM
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Maijuana, drug war, drug czar nonsense
The Drug War In a Nutshell
Valerie Davis, the 42-year-old woman killed this week in a cops-chase-drug-suspect scenario, would be alive today if drugs were legalized, controlled and regulated. And the drug suspect, now a murder suspect, would have been doing something else for a living, if drugs were legalized. (“Drugs suspects fleeing cops ram into car; woman killed,” Chicago Sun-Times, 11/4/09) Also a drug agent’s bullet fired in the excitement of the chase would not have risked killing innocent bystanders in the Washington Park neighborhood. In sum, drug agents escalated a drug-prohibition violation into the death of an innocent motorist that could have been anyone of us.
If drugs were legalized, some of the drug agents involved in this botched drug-enforcement operation could get a job making something and constructively contributing to American society and gross domestic product. Instead a woman is dead, needlessly, and some drug buyers will be momentarily inconvenienced as they switch drug dealers. A drug suspect will likely go to prison for murder. The taxpayers will get the bill, and Valerie’s relatives get to cry.
Truly – wasteful, counter-productive, deadly, expensive and futile folly. But that’s the drug war in a nutshell.
James E. Gierach
Law Enforcement Against Prohibition Speaker
www.leap.cc
- James E
November 4, 2009 1:54PM
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Individual Rights
"In a little over three months, my office will deliver to President Obama a National Drug Control Strategy that will strike a balance between public health and public safety ..."
Striking that balance is superfluous when public health and public safety are SECONDARY to INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS.
To this Czar, every other Czar, and all US citizens who support tyranny-by-majority...F YOU!
And Todd...he, and prohibition laws are UN-AMERICAN. I hold up our founding document as evidence. The prosecution rests.
- paladin713
November 4, 2009 2:09PM
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The FDA is not a credible agency.
The FDA is a compromised institution and is not the beacon of purity and knowledge that Gil Kerlikowske believes or would have us believe. The Food and Drug Administration is the same agency that allow hundreds of pharmaceutical drugs that have collected a hefty death toll over these past few decades. Yet the one drug that does not have a single recorded death ever, cannabis , is outlawed. Given these circumstances and the fact that every scientific study proving the medical benefits of cannabis have been instantly dismissed, it's clear that we are not dealing with innocent people within the FDA. We are dealing with immoral bureaucrats who do not mind ignoring science when it enforces their personal viewpoint or gives their bank account a healthy boost.
I believe if the FDA had a legitimate reason to give for cannabis not being medically viable, Kerlikowske would have relayed it to the public so that we would understand. Clearly, as this was not done, they have no legitimate reason in determining its reported uselessness (again, we must all simply choose to ignore the reality that several scientific studies and millions of first-hand patient experiences have already occurred). As consequence, a nation of 300 million are forced to be denied a helpful medical solution based on a dishonest review process.
So, why must the FDA draw the line at non-toxic medical solutions?
Who is the FDA truly working for? Who is the FDA working against? Is the FDA truly benefiting the country's well-being or are they a part of the cancer slowly eating it away?
- the13thzen
November 4, 2009 2:16PM
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Gil NOBODY is above the law
Adherence to “The rule of Law” is what makes a country civilised and the natural word meaning of the text is what the law means.
The Government has formally and officially declared the “War on Drugs”. This war is an internal armed conflict as the Government is waging it's war against it's own citizens and within our shores. The Government fills the role of the “occupying power” An end to hostilities has NOT been declared and arms have not been laid down. The war continues as do the human rights atrocities.
This action brings into play the Geneva Conventions.
To intentionally withhold lifesaving and effective pain relieving medication from sick and injured civilians in a theatre of internal armed conflict when that medicine has been requested and is within your power to provide or to seize by force and destroy said medicines from those civilians is a WAR CRIME.
It is variously called Murder, cruel treatment, torture ,and outrages upon personal dignity.
If the common law concept of Informed Consent in medical treatment and the Right to Bodily Integrity are to have any meaning in fact then it is the place of the individual to decide what they consider to be effective medicine in the treatment of their ailments. It is not the role of Government, the courts, the public service or the medical profession to dictate the medical choices of the citizen. The Government do have a right to make recommendations and provide “Guidelines” for quality control, safe use practices and regulations for distribution of any substance such as they currently do for alcohol and many pharmaceuticals but they have no right to declare a substance of no medical value and prohibited, especially when that substance is a naturally occurring plant that has been shown in scientific studies to be a safe and effective medicine and which has been used for thousands of years without one known fatality due to toxicity, Science not ideology should guide Government policy on health .
The citizen alone has the right to decide what is the appropriate medical treatment or medicine for their condition having investigated all the treatments on offer(in existence) and is free to decide for or against any treatment regardless if that decision may even result in death.
Cannabis is a proven life saving medicine and very effective pain relieving agent for certain types of intractable pain that does not respond to current pharmaceuticals. It is also far safer and less addictive than all other known pain medications. Under the current drug laws “the patient” is not authorised to have possession of their own medicine at any time for any reason. This makes a farce of the Common law rights mentioned above and infringes on personal dignity in an outrageous manner and renders the drug laws as ambiguous at best.
For the Government to refuse to allow supply of this medicine to those who choose it as medicine for their ailments and to prosecute as criminals those who have made the informed decision to control their own medical treatments through consumption of Cannabis is for the Government to have over stepped their jurisdiction and has lead to the deaths of many citizens through treatable curable diseases such as Cancer and Epilepsy and untold suffering amongst those whom the medical profession cannot help with “Authorised treatments and medicines”. Not to mention those directly "Murdered" by law enforcement officers. The front line soldiers in the war on drugs .
To undertake this action in a theatre of internal armed conflict makes it a war crime and charges must be laid against those responsible for the breaches of human rights.
These war crimes MUST be prosecuted to the full extent of the law as nobody is above the law or so we are told.
- lightning
November 4, 2009 4:37PM
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How Wrong Can Some People Be?
I still cannot understand why people who know the least speak the loudest! Everyone who says anything negative about marijuana has absolutely no clue as to what they are talking about. It really is a life enhancing plant that has incredible medical uses and will lower crime rates, lower our nation's deficit , provide relief to people who are suffering, help Americans reach their goals and dreams, among so many other positive benefits . There is no need to worry about " kids being addicted to marijuana at 16". Where has everyone who says ignorant things like this been? This is not China!
People need to get a grip on the horrible devastating effects of alcohol and tobacco , and realize that marijuana doesn't resemble either of them. It's also the fault of those ridiculous commercials that show kids that are high thinking they are invincible and blowing their heads off. What does that really sound like? I feeling of invincibility? ALCOHOL! How many people are in a drunk tank because "they are stoned and need to sober up".
For some people, this is a mind enhancing, skill enhancing, pain relieving plant that helps them take control of the problems in their life. This plant is God's gift to mankind, only to be labeled as "the devil's drug".
What about methamphetamines? Meth is tearing up America, poising people lungs and minds, druggies doing anything they can to manufacture the drug they got addicted to the very first time they tried it! Marijuana has been proven to not be addictive at all!
I have been smoking marijuana for 10 years, and I can honestly say that it was the greatest thing I have ever done for myself. The misconceptions that are thrown in marijuana's direction are partly because of "stoner movies" where the individuals shown are so stupid and messy, but I can assure that I do not resemble them in any way. I am ex- military , have been to 6 different countries and 38 states in the U.S., and am currently attending ITT Technical Institute for a degree in Information Systems Administration. Does that resemble a lazy, sloppy, stupid stoner like in the movies? Do movies closely resemble reality at all?
I will get back to why people who know so little talk so much about subjects they should not. IGNORANCE. The world is flat and the sky is fucking falling. These people need to use their own experience and stop talking about marijuana being a "psych-active bane on America". They have absolutely no clue.
Imagine being able to smoke a small amount of very low tar plant that allows to undertake any challenge and conquer, understand anything you put your mind to, do anything with your body that you cannot do otherwise (like a back flip), without side effects like cocaine , or violent tendencies (feelings of wanting to rob, steal, fight, murder ), or any possibility of your heart exploding. Let me tell you what marijuana makes a person feel. I feel a need to take vitamins, exercise , take care of my responsibilities, forgive people who have done wrong to me (A very difficult thing for me to do), maintain the upkeep of my belongings, get in touch with people who are important to me, plan for the future, learn new things, have an adventure and enjoy my life.
If this sounds criminal and destructive to America then I don't know what is happening in this country. People are not supposed to be depressed, hate their lives, worry about being attacked in their own neighborhoods, worry about developing a disease (tobacco), worry about what they might do while they are impaired (alcohol).
Look at the numbers in California about the potential amount of revenue that can be generated from marijuana sales in a controlled legal way. All marijuana will be of the same source, strength and value, all manufactured by the U.S. Government (which they already do). Do people honestly think that illegal grow operations will increase as "criminals" try to line their pockets with extra effort and risk? NO. Has anyone ever met a violent marijuana user (whose mind wasn't damaged by hardcore drugs ). NO. Hopefully someone will read this and understand that I am a very analytical and skeptical person who has learned all of these things from experience. They are also backed by my religious beliefs which state "God created all living things with a purpose". The purpose of marijuana is to heal people of pain, bad feelings, worry, and a lack of motivation that doesn't result in feeling intoxicated (such as alcohol, which is a depressant). Imagine applying this wonderful solution on a nation wide scale!
I am sure more people who do not know what they are talking about will continue to take someone else's word for how "dangerous" and "damaging" marijuana is to individuals and on a nation wide scale. Just be sure to remind them that the world is flat and you can fall off of it. :D
- straightroadtosuccess
November 4, 2009 5:50PM
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