Arizona Medical Marijuana Policy Project

[Valley Native]

Originally Posted by cmist

Good thread! Since AZ is a "red" state, Im surprised and refreshed to see some progressive NORML thinking people!!! I get very frustrated thinking about the double standard of giving alcohol a rubber stamp of approval while marijuana is demonized.

It makes absolutely no sense... especially thinking about the income that could be generated, as well as taking some control away from drug smugglers.

A person that is out of control is truly going to be out of control with whatever substance they can get their hands on, legal or not, and its not the drug itself thats the issue.

Wanted to jump in and agree and add my support - CHEERS!!! PEACE!!!!

Arizona is a "red state" mainly because of the strong fiscal conservativism here. On most social issues, we're more Libertarian or laissez faire. Consider the fact that Arizona was the first and only state where voters rejected a ban on same sex marriage in 2006. Granted, one reason that failed was it was too restrictive ... but still, it should stand as an example that this is not the Bible Belt.

We would have already had legalized medical marijuana here if it wasn't for the idiots in the Legislature striking it down. As I said before, when these measures are put on the ballots, the final decision is left to the registered voters ... not a band of self righteous politicians or judges. In the upcoming election, should medicinal marijuana be approved by the voters, anybody in the government who attempts to overturn it (or any other initiative for that matter) should be immediately removed from office!

[cmist]

Originally Posted by Valley Native

Arizona is a "red state" mainly because of the strong fiscal conservativism here. On most social issues, we're more Libertarian or laissez faire. Consider the fact that Arizona was the first and only state where voters rejected a ban on same sex marriage in 2006. Granted, one reason that failed was it was too restrictive ... but still, it should stand as an example that this is not the Bible Belt.

We would have already had legalized medical marijuana here if it wasn't for the idiots in the Legislature striking it down. As I said before, when these measures are put on the ballots, the final decision is left to the registered voters ... not a band of self righteous politicians or judges. In the upcoming election, should medicinal marijuana be approved by the voters, anybody in the government who attempts to overturn it (or any other initiative for that matter) should be immediately removed from office!

I agree with you 100%. This isnt as "red" as a bible belt state but political decisions tend to be more in line with "red" politics as opposed to "blue". And even if the people do vote in a more liberal fashion, its overridden by the conservative powers that be.

(This has happened on a few issues, but should be reserved for another thread.)

I cant understand for the life of me why there is a vote at all, if in the end, the vote can be disregarded!

[KarmaPhx]

Marijuana was legalized for medical use in 1996, but a loophole made it illegal for doctors to prescribe it.

The law passed before, why not again? This new law would fix the loopholes in the previous laws, and allow medical use for those who need it.

I am a strongly oppose of giving a medical card to just anyone who claims they need it, I hope they have better regulations than California.

[roundball]

Originally Posted by KarmaPhx

Marijuana was legalized for medical use in 1996, but a loophole made it illegal for doctors to prescribe it.

From my understanding, the loophole was they originally used the word "prescribe" when they should of used "recommend" in the language of the '96 initiative.

[KarmaPhx]

Originally Posted by roundball

From my understanding, the loophole was they originally used the word "prescribe" when they should of used "recommend" in the language of the '96 initiative.

I believe you're right, I haven't researched the exact wording, but in CA it's a recommendation, not a prescription, so that would make sense.

[roundball]

Either way, the legislature should have fixed it to be within the "intent" of the initiative that was passed by the voters.

[garisonthebull]

Medical Marijuana can do justice for many sufferers of various ailments. I hope for the truly sick they can be afforded whatever resource reduces their suffrage.

Personal opinion for those of you posting jokes about pot use or talk of this assisting the "Stoners" and all, you are not helping those for whom this bill was intended. Keep it professional this is a good thread with good purpose. Please either state why you support it or why you disagree but don't make it a "Getting High" crusade to be sure this is a serious matter for seriously ill people.

[FunkyPioneer]

Originally Posted by roundball

From my understanding, the loophole was they originally used the word "prescribe" when they should of used "recommend" in the language of the '96 initiative.

Actually because Arizona liscences Natropathic Doctors and allows them to perscribe medications as well as have hospital rights etc; It is completely possible for a natropathic doctor to write a perscription for anything such as echinechea for a cold or MJ for terminal patients. (my pop used to be on the medical board) Although I am pretty sure you won't find one willing to risk it with out changes in the laws.