Back
2 MIN READ
The history of cannabis dates back thousands of years. Archaeologists found cannabis seeds inside Siberian burial mounds from 3000 B.C. Thousands of years ago, the Chinese used cannabis as a medicine. Cannabis had found its way to Colonial America as well. George Washington grew hemp at his house on Mount Vernon.
The “cult” film Reefer Madness, however, changed everything and cannabis went underground for 70 years. In 1970 the federal government designated cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance listed under the Controlled Substance Act. The Schedule I classification is meant for substances that are considered to be highly addictive and have no medical value. This classification prevents scientists from conducting research into the plant.
A marijuana revolution
Researchers are just starting to learn about the medical benefits associated with cannabis, but they have not even scratched the surface. Currently, 23 states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana and three states have legalized recreational marijuana.
This revolution, however, is not just taking place in the United States. We are seeing marijuana reform taking place all around the world.
Less than a month ago, Puerto Rico Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla signed an executive order to legalize medical marijuana. In 2014, Uruguay legalized both medical and recreational marijuana. Israel, Canada, and the Netherlands all have legal medical marijuana programs. Portugal and a number of other countries have decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Chile joins the growing list of countries
On Monday, Chile’s lower house of Congress approved a bill which will allow Chileans to grow small amounts of marijuana for medical, recreational or spiritual use. 68% of the lower house voted in favor of the bill which will now be sent to a health commission and then to the Senate for approval.
The bill would allow Chilean residents to grow up to six marijuana plants. It would also decriminalize the use and possession of marijuana.
Marijuana support driving change
Marijuana legalization may not be a top priority for the United States right now, but change is occurring all over the world. The global marijuana industry has gathered support from many high ranking officials over the last two years which has increased overall support for the reform of restrictive laws.
Progress toward this goal is hampered by political realities, such that cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I substance. It is time for change and for the authorities to recognize its medical benefits and to remove some of the restrictions that are not supported by scientific research.
All good -- no spamming here.
Comments