We spent time in a couple of classes discussing the consequences of the marijuana legislation passed in a couple states in November and what the national government might do about it since marijuana is still illegal according to national law. I suggested, based on what I've read elsewhere, that Obama might be waiting to see what direction public opinion is moving on the issue, and how quickly, in order to determine whether he should continue to enforce national laws against the states.
There may be a shift underway in attitudes about the law. That will help determine whether the feds should yield to the states, which is the thing to do in a democracy.
On that note, the Texas Tribune reports the Texas Legislature may make a minor move in the direction of liberalizing marijuana policy by allowing a bill that simply allows doctors to discuss marijuana as a possible medicinal option with their patients, and allow that discussion to be taken as a defense if the patient is arrested for possession.
The bill has been introduced previously, but has never made it out of committee. It just might this session. That's a baby step if that's all that happens, but its something.
Bills to follow:
- HB 594
- HB 184
Texans is far less supportive of legalizing marijuana than the country as a whole, unless the respondents are asked if they favor legalizing and taxing it.
