It’s easy to get caught up in a roller coaster of elation and despair, writes NORML president Chris Fowlie, but we need to focus on the only poll that counts: the Referendum itself.
The government is working on setting up New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis framework. Now is the final moment for all of us to have a say in what that will look like.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has asked the Chief Science Advisor to gather a panel of experts and run an information campaign, to finally dispel the cannabis misinformation spread by the likes of Family First and the Hawkesby-Hoskings propaganda machine.
Public consultation on the medical cannabis scheme is OPEN NOW UNTIL 7 AUGUST: https://www.health.govt.nz/publication/medicinal-cannabis-scheme-consultation
Controversy over edibles shows a smart approach is needed for the cannabis referendum and for medicinal cannabis
The first NZ medicinal cannabis patient research survey was launched on J-Day this year, drawing immediate attention with over 1300 people accessing it in the first two weeks. The survey, which is online only, is sponsored by medicinal cannabis patient advocacy organisation MCANZ, and aims to have 2000 people complete the survey questionnaire by July 31st, when participation closes.
The Government is considering making changes to New Zealand’s drug driver testing and enforcement regime. Read NORML’s submission to NZTA’s discussion document here.
Turns out the sources cited by legalisation opponents in New Zealand are the same as anti-cannabis campaigners in the USA – and lack credibility.
According to two polls this week, the cannabis referendum is in serious trouble. But they also provide clues for how to win. A model based on social equity, social enterprises and social clubs could be what it takes to win the cannabis referendum.
A promised referendum on recreational cannabis next year has raised questions on what a legal, regulated cannabis market might look like. The SMC asked experts to discuss how potential legislative changes might change the drugs market and impact everyday Kiwis.
Claims that cannabis use is associated with lower cognitive functioning are largely based upon the findings of a single longitudinal study. The “true effect [of cannabis exposure] could be zero.”
New Zealand’s oldest cannabis reform group has welcomed details of the Government’s cannabis referendum, but cautioned the devil is in the details.
NORML New Zealand Inc supports the intention of this Bill, especially the provision mandating police discretion and directing a health-based approach. Our main concern is about granting a wide power for any Minister of Health to prohibit more substances or even “articles” and we recommend changing this. We also recommend directing police discretion and a healthcare-based approach before arrest, rather than at prosecution.
This year, 2019, J Day is on “Star Wars Day”, May the Forth (get it?). NORML and friends are organising free events around New Zealand.
These ten fixes can all be done this year though regulations or updates to policy, with no law change needed. I want New Zealand to be a world leader in medicinal cannabis, and for patients to have legal access by Christmas this year. Let’s do it!
Join us in Wellington this 9-10 November for the Cannabis Referendum Conference and NORML AGM double-header! Cannabis Referendum Conference Friday, 9 November 2018 from 08:30-18:00 James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor… Read more »
Rally and Art Installation calling for a Moratorium on Medicinal Cannabis Patients and their supporters until the Laws are altered. Decorate your terracotta pots commemorating patients denied safe access to… Read more »
With three bills before Parliament this year, medicinal cannabis advocates are calling for cross-party support for sensible solutions. Changes to the Government’s medicinal cannabis bill don’t go far enough, while the National… Read more »
The Government’s medicinal cannabis bill is back before parliament today – with MPs being urged to do what’s best for patients, not politics. Responding to reports the National Party intends to withdraw… Read more »
Cannabis campaigners have welcomed news today the Government is considering bringing forward the binding referendum on legalising cannabis to next year, 2019, rather than during the 2020 general election. “Bring… Read more »