Latin America: INCB Calls on Peru, Bolivia to Ban Coca Chewing
The International Narcotics Control Board wants the governments of Bolivia and Peru to ban coca chewing. Not happening.
News Brief
Pain Treatment: INCB Calls for Greater Access to Opioid Medicines in Developing World
The UN's International Narcotics Control Board has called for greater access to and use of opioid pain relievers in the developing world. In a slap at proposals to license and "medicalize" the Afghan opium crop, the INCB argues that global supply isn't the problem.
Medical Marijuana: Michigan Petition Signatures Approved, Measure Headed for November Ballot Unless Legislature Approves It First
The Michigan medical marijuana initiative has been approved by the state Board of Canvassers. Now, it heads to the voters in November -- unless the legislature approves it in the next six weeks.
Hemp: Licensing Bill Passes Minnesota House, Would Require Federal Approval
Maybe the third time is the charm. After going nowhere in 1999 and 2002, hemp legislation is moving at the Minnesota state capitol. A licensing bill has passed two committee votes despite law enforcement objections.
Jamaica: Government Considering Marijuana Legalization, Official Says
A Jamaican government official said last Friday that the island nation is considering legalizing or decriminalizing marijuana as part of a drug law reform proposal. But don't hold your breath, the government said this was coming "soon" back in 2003.
Europe: Czech Supreme Court Throws Out Medical Marijuana Grow Conviction
The Czech Supreme Court has overturned the marijuana cultivation convictions of a retiree who claimed she was growing to treat her ulcers and foot pain. It doesn't mean it's legal to grow pot now, but it appears the lower courts will have to take medical necessity defenses under consideration.
Medical Marijuana: Kansas Bill Dies as Legislative Deadline Passes
The effort to pass a medical marijuana bill is dead for this year in Kansas -- killed by an obstructionist committee chair -- but organizers vow it will be back.
In Memoriam: William F. Buckley, Conservative Supporter of Drug Legalization
The dean of contemporary American conservatism, William F. Buckley, died Wednesday at age 82. His was a pioneering conservative voice in favor of drug legalization.
Pregnancy: Arizona Bill to Force Meth-Using Mothers-To-Be Into Treatment Passes Committee
A bill that would allow child protective workers to order meth-using pregnant women into drug treatment against their will was approved by a state Senate committee Monday. It now moves to the Senate floor.
Money Laundering: US Supreme Court Skeptical of Government's Broad Interpretation
The US Supreme Court heard oral arguments Monday in a case where the government is claiming that hiding money constitutes money laundering. The justices seemed skeptical.