In some ways, 2012 has been a year of dramatic, exciting change in drug policy, as the edifice of global drug prohibition appears to crumble before our eyes. In other ways it's still business as usual in the drug war. Here, we look at the biggest drug policy stories of the year.
Dispensary wars continue in California, a package of restrictive bills passes in Michigan, and DC's long-awaited dispensaries are a step closer to opening.
Lots of action -- good, bad, and ugly -- in California this week, plus a Washington appeals court ruling that appears to clear the way for dispensaries.
Yes, it's true: Medical marijuana dispensaries really are coming in Arizona and New Jersey, and clinics to Massachusetts. Meanwhile, Harborside wins in state court, and Mendocino County ponders a federal subpoena. There's more news, too.
A Montana medical marijuana grower is looking at an 80-year mandatory minimum federal prison sentence after standing on principle and refusing onerous plea bargains. Now, Chris Williams' supporters are rallying.