Category: Medical Marijuana

    No, marijuana isn’t a gateway drug

    There’s more evidence that marijuana does not, in fact, lead to harder drug use.

    marijuana use might not be as dangerous as some critics of the drug fear

    A new study from Emory University researchers looked at federal surveys and states that legalized medical marijuana to evaluate the impact of legalization on marijuana and other drug use. Researchers found medical marijuana legalization led adults 21 and older to use more marijuana, but the increase did not lead people to try harder drugs.

    The study has several implications for states that are considering whether to legalize marijuana for recreational or medical purposes. For one, it suggests relaxed marijuana laws can lead to more regular marijuana use, although not among teenagers. But the study also indicates that marijuana use might not be as dangerous as some critics of the drug fear.

      Georgia U.S. Senate candidates speak out on medical marijuana

      WTVM.com reports on senate candidate’s thoughts on medical marijuana.

      We asked the question: “What are your thoughts on using marijuana for medicinal purposes in the state of Georgia?

      Candidate Derrick Grayson’s response: “An absolute yes…It should not have been a question. However, the way in which the game of politics is constantly played with the lives of people there are folks that attached other things to that bill, causing it to not pass. It’s just a shame, but those are the things that the American people are not aware of. They play games with people’s lives and they shouldn’t.”

      Candidate Jack Kingston’s answer: “I oppose it. The legislature looked at it this time and voted it down, but we’ll let the legislature make that decision.”

      Candidate Paul Broun‘s response: “Though there are valid uses of marijuana for medical purposes under the direction of a doctor being available for indicated purposes.”

      Candidate Karen Handel‘s answer: Fortunately, here in Georgia, the state is really looking at a way to make it available, especially for those young children who are suffering seizures over and over again during the day. We want to make sure we can use every tool at our disposal to make them as comfortable as possible.”

        Georgia CARE Rallies for Marijuana Legalization Athens City Hall

        Supporters for marijuana law reform rallied outside the Athens-Clarke County City Hall on Monday.

        “Marijuana is a popular issue around the country right now, and we are here to basically bring public attention to the fact that we are not criminals and people who use marijuana are no more criminal than a person who drinks wine,” said James Bell, director of the Georgia Campaign for Access Reform and Education Project.

        The rally was facilitated by the Georgia CARE Project.

        Bell said he expected up to 50 people, from different areas of Georgia and other states, to attend the event.

        One study found approximately 60 percent of likely voters support marijuana reform, Bell said.

        “Public sentiment has changed,” he said. “We believe there is support on our side, and we want to convince our lawmakers that we have got to change these laws.”