Just recently, the House of Representatives voted on the MORE Act. This measure decriminalizes marijuana use at the federal level. This battle has been fought for a long time, and now we finally see an end in sight.
News of this comes months after pulling the bill prior so as not to complicate the November election. Now, we see that the vote passed 228-164, with Democrats heavily backing it and a couple of Republicans. Times are changing and while the federal government continues criminalizing weed, 36 states have legalized it.
House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler is trying to destroy the stigma that weed has and clear up some government disparities.
“For far too long, we have treated marijuana as a criminal justice problem instead of as a matter of personal choice and public health. Whatever one’s views are on the use of marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, the policy of arrests, prosecution, and incarceration at the Federal level has proven unwise and unjust. I have long believed that the criminalization of marijuana has been a mistake. The racially disparate enforcement of marijuana laws has only compounded this mistake, with serious consequences, particularly for communities of color.” – J. Nadler
While some attribute weed as a gateway drug that leads to increased traffic deaths, there is more to its use. Whether it’s recreational or medicinal, there is scientific evidence that demonstrates the opposite. We can see the argument: legalizing weed means legalizing cocaine next, or creating revenue taxes, programs, and redistributing assets. But at what cost?
Well, the arguments can be made but they’ll still lose with the American people. That is according to Republican Matt Gaetz, as he stands by the MORE Act because he wants to do more for the people. Though, he may not think that it will become a law because of the Republican majority still in the Senate.
The battling opinions between both sides still continue, with cases being made for priorities in the wrong place. Let’s not forget that there are also studies where marijuana can help with pain management and mental health issues as well. This is more than a drug battle. This is shaping up to be a stand for restorative justice, criminal justice reform, and a reformation of the cannabis policy. How do you feel about the MORE Act?
