Drug War Chronicle #784 - May 16, 2013
The IRS War on Medical Marijuana Providers [FEATURE]
The IRS's use of an obscure provision to deny standard exemptions to medical marijuana dispensaries is causing pain to patients and providiers, and inspiring some creative thinking among law professors.
Harm Reduction Makes Strides in North Carolina [FEATURE]
After several years of laying the groundwork, North Carolina harm reductionists have successfully shepherded one bill through the legislature already this year. Another one sailed through the House this week.
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NYC Marijuana Arrests Declining, But Still Sky High
New York City arrested around 50,000 people for small-time marijuana possession a couple of years ago. This year, the number looks to be around 30,000, thanks to changes in policy and heightened public scrutiny.
VT Marijuana Decriminalization Heads to Governor
Vermont is about to become the 17th state to either decriminalize or legalize marijuana.
Medical Marijuana Update
The feds stay on the attack in California, and fallout from last week's state Supreme Court decision allowing local dispensary bans mounts. There's news from other states as well.
Colorado Legislature Passes Sentencing Reform
Colorado has taken another step down the path of drug sentencing reform with the passage of Senate Bill 250. The governor is expected to sign it into law.
China, Southeast Asia Vow More Better Drug War
China and Southeast Asian nations have renewed their vows in the fight against illegal drug use and the drug trade. The UNODC officiated.
Republic of Georgia Could Legalize Marijuana
Legal cannabis in the Caucausus? It could happen if some politicians in Georgia have their way.
East Bay Cops Shoot, Kill Fleeing Drug Suspect
There has been a questionable drug war killing in California's East Bay. An unarmed drug suspect was shot and killed as he fled police, who claimed they feared for their safety.
This Week's Corrupt Cops Stories
If it weren't for crooked cops in the Land of Lincoln, this space would be blank this week. Instead, we have an Illinois corrupt cops twofer.
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