Medical societies in Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut and New York came out strongly against the legalization of marijuana for nonmedical use.
Legalization efforts have not advanced in Delaware, but are nearing approval in New Jersey.
“States that are rushing towards legalization of recreational marijuana are ignoring how profit-driven corporations hooked generations of Americans on cigarettes and opioids, killing millions and straining public resources,” the medical society presidents stated.
They continued, “We are in full agreement that calls for a rescheduling of marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule II classification. As a Schedule II drug, government funding can be sought for necessary research that clearly defines the positive and negative elements of marijuana use. When we have the science, we can make qualified and quantified decisions about legalization.”
“To date, ten states have legalized recreational marijuana. Let’s stop the tide now,” the presidents added.
States have typically legalized marijuana through the voter referendum process. Delaware does not have the process in law-making Polls have shown a majority of voters in Delaware and other states favor legalization.
In addition to the medical community, marijuana legalization has been opposed by AAA Mid-Atlantic and elements of law enforcement.
Delaware earlier decriminalized possession of a small amount of marijuana.
