Something totally awesome (and possibly historic) happened two days ago in Canada.
Judge Donald J. Taliano of the Ontario Superior Court has found that “the prohibitions against the possession and production of cannabis (marijuana) contained in sections 4 and 7 respectively of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act” are “constitutionally invalid and of no force and effect.” As a result, the Canadian government has 90 days to fix the country’s medicinal marijuana laws or else the ruling comes into effect and effectively legalizes all weed use/production in the province.
If this would have happened 3 months ago, it would have been naive to hope for anything to come out of it. But since these days Canada is in the middle of an election and the parliament isn’t in session, there’s some hope – albeit not much. And even if legalization doesn’t happen, it’s still a step in the right direction. It means more progress could be made in the future. It also means the new marijuana laws could be a little more lax.
This is what Judge Taliano wrote in his decision:
The deleterious effects of the MMAR (Marihuana Medical Access Regulations) on Mr. Mernagh and other similarly situated individuals are clear. Seriously ill persons who need marihuana to treat their symptoms are forced to choose between their health and their liberty. If they choose their health, they must go to significant lengths to obtain the marihuana they need, including lengthy trips to purchase the drug, resort to the black market, and living with the constant stress that at any time they could be subject to criminal prosecution. These already sick individuals must further cope with the added stress of the stigma and social rejection of friends, family and members of the public who see them as criminals. This is not to mention the real fear of losing one’s doctor simply by inquiring about the drug and damage to the patient-doctor relationship.
Quick everyone, to Canada!
PS: Don’t forget to pack your bongs.
