Marijuana Consumption Overwhelms Traditional Cigarette Use
In a recent shift, the consumption of marijuana seems to be exceeding the rate of traditional cigarette smoking. This change ensues in parallel with numerous national and international news related to cannabis.
Developments in the US Cannabis Environment
The Medical Marijuana Oversight Committee of South Dakota purportedly focuses on finding solutions to problems within its jurisdiction, as stated by the committee’s chairperson. Meanwhile, proposed alterations to marijuana handler permit education course obligations are under consideration in Alaska. Delaware has even initiated vending machines aimed at reducing harm from drug use.
To ensure adequate allocation of cannabis tax earnings, Maryland regulators have initiated a public survey. Concurrently, the Virginia Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council is preparing for a meeting on Monday with an undisclosed agenda.
In Oakland, California the City Council’s vote has exempted marijuana from a possible total ban on residential smoking and vaping in multi-unit housing.
Global Viewpoints on Marijuana Consumption and Laws
Globally, the perception towards cannabis consumption is transforming, evidenced by revisions in marijuana laws. The cabinet of the Czech Republic has approved a proposal to legalize the cultivation and possession of minor quantities of marijuana. In sync with this, the country’s Pirate Party intends to legitimize larger quantities of this plant.
Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, has publicly stated that he has never used cannabis. In Germany, the commissioner for addiction and drug issues participated in a conference on marijuana and youth, pushing the conversation on this previously controversial topic. His tweet stated, “legalizing cannabis for adults in April 2024 was not a sprint – it was a marathon.”
Health Associations of Marijuana
A growing body of evidence supports the medicinal implications of marijuana. A recent evaluation concluded that “medical cannabis can be considered an option for carefully chosen patients with chronic pain syndromes when alternative treatment doesn’t provide satisfactory results, and when possible advantages outweigh the risks.”
In the view of Tom Angell, a seasoned advocate for cannabis law reform and editor of Marijuana Moment, this signifies an escalating trend moving from traditional cigarettes towards marijuana. His role in the non-profit Marijuana Majority and his past work for Marijuana.com and MassRoots give weight to his expertise in the field. His contributions have significantly influenced the progression of marijuana reform. This synopsis paints a picture of a continuously evolving marijuana environment, with legal, health, and societal aspects to ponder.