We’ve come a long way in 2015, haven’t we? The world saw major changes to cannabis-related legislation across the globe and in states all over the USA. In February, the nation’s capital legalized recreational cannabis, and in October, Oregon opened their medical dispensaries to recreational (and record breaking) sales.
Nearly every state in the country has medical cannabis legislation on the books. Georgia, Texas, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming all passed some sort of law in favor of medical cannabis, with the first two (Georgia and Texas) establishing a system for medical cannabis. The state of Delaware, as well as dozens of cities across the country, have decriminalized small amounts of pot possession, reducing it to a civil infraction accompanied by a small fine.
For the first time ever, a standing U.S. President came out in favor of cannabis decriminalization. Barack Obama, though he still doesn’t support full legalization, called for major reform of cannabis laws and the prison privatization system, often fueled by arrests made for minor cannabis possession.
In addition, both of the leading Democratic candidates are making major cannabis reform a part of their campaigns. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has promised decriminalization, whereas Senator Bernie Sanders has called for decriminalization and for removing cannabis from the Controlled Substance scheduling entirely, with additional promises of major prison reform.
A Gallup Poll, taken in October of this year, shows that more than 58% of Americans are in favor of legalization, or at least allowances for medical use of cannabis. This is a huge increase from the 25% of the 90’s, and the 10% of the 70’s. In spite of this, and in stark contrast of the fears of many legal cannabis dissidents, teen use of cannabis has actually decreased over the last five years.
Canada elected a new Prime Minster this year, Justin Trudeau. The new PM made cannabis legalization a major part of his running platform during the election, and has ordered his cabinet to begin designing a system to implement cannabis legalization across the entire country.
Colombia has voted to legalize medical cannabis as well, though the South American country has not yet implemented a system for controlling it. In Central America, Mexico has decided to create a series of debates to discuss the issue of cannabis legalization. Both countries, ravaged by decades-long drug wars, hope that the possibility of legalization will take money and resources out of the hands of the vicious cartels that have plagued them for so long.
Last but not least, Trove Cannabis opened its doors on November 15th of this year, and is quickly becoming one of the most popular recreational cannabis stores in Bellingham, WA. With $8 grams and other specials every day, weekly events, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff, Trove has had a fantastic few months with our amazing customers. We look forward to 2016, and many years afterward. Happy New Year, Bellingham!
by Amy W. for Trove Cannabis.
