In the wave of the great marijuana debate, many states (including Michigan, Missouri, and Utah) have taken stances on legalizing the little green plant. Nevertheless, as powerhouses like California and Colorado continue to dominate the playing field, we have to ask one question: where does that leave our nation’s capital? Since the midterm election, our House has been dominated by progressive lawmakers seeking to permit recreational use, so how does Washington D.C. fit into the mix? According to re-elected Mayor Muriel E. Bowser, the drug could be legalized in the District of Columbia very soon. In fact, due to the situation in the House, the road to pot could be clearer than we thought. Let’s take a closer look at the possibility of marijuana legalization in our capital.
Trouble in Paradise
In 2014, D.C. voters approved a measure that completely legalized marijuana possession and cultivation, however, the public and government has continued to face repercussions. During that time, Republicans in the House of Representatives exercised authority over the District’s budget by preventing local regulations and taxations on the little green plant (part of an act called the “budget rider”). While medical marijuana has been legal since 1998, Washington D.C. did not set up the first dispensary until 2013.
At this time, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif) and Representative Mike Quigley (D-Ill) will supervise the committee supervising legal action in the District and will create plans to dissolve the “budget rider” next year. According to Mayor Bowser, as long as people can possess marijuana, the government should open the doors for a legal market.
Too Soon?
Recently, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) has explained how the current predicament in Washington D.C. is an unsolvable problem and completely approves recreational cannabis. Likewise, he believes the “budget rider” is preventing additional actions on part of the council. According to Mendelson, the first step is to confer with his lawyers. Only one question remains: how soon can this action be taken? Interestingly, D.C. City Council member David Grosso has developed an ordinance to distribute licenses to retail marijuana stores.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
