Posted inLaw Reform Press releases

Regulate natural cannabis to reduce synthetic cannabis

Demand for synthetic cannabis would plummet if natural cannabis were legally and safely available here as in Colorado, where laws have today been enacted to ensure the world's first legal marijuana market for adults will be a robust and comprehensive regulatory system. "Our parliament is grappling with regulations controlling the sale of synthetic cannabis and party pills," said NORML spokesperson Chris Fowlie, "but there is no market for these…
Posted inPress releases Research

Is Your Mayor in the Marijuana Majority?

by Erik Altieri & Chris Fowlie On TV3's The Vote, New Zealanders voted 70-28 to decriminalise cannabis. While the show and poll are memorable for the overwhelming support shown for alternatives to prohibition, it was clear the opposing team were out of touch and none more so than Timaru's mayor Janie Annear. Now, you can join NORML and our friends at the Marijuana Majority in our efforts to build…
Posted inAbout cannabis For Media & Students Research

Study: Regular Cannabis Use Associated With Reduced Risk Factors For Type 2 Diabetes

Smoking cannabis could reduce the risk of diabetes by controlling blood sugar Marijuana users had 16% lower fasting insulin levels than non-users They were also less likely to be insulin resistant and had smaller waists Previous research has found cannabis smokers are less likely to be obese   Study: Regular Cannabis Use Associated With Reduced Risk Factors For Type 2 Diabetes by Paul Armentano, US NORML Deputy Director Subjects…
Posted inAbout cannabis For Media & Students Research

Study: No association between cannabis smoke and risk of lung cancer

A re-analysis of New Zealand data has confirmed cannabis is the safer choice, with pot smokers having no increased risk of lung cancer compared to non-smokers. Previous results were widely reported as showing an elevated risk of lung cancer. "That risk has disappeared now tobacco smokers have been removed", said Chris Fowlie, spokesperson for the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML NZ Inc). "A recent study…