By now you are probably keenly aware that, no matter what the states may enact concerning the legalization or decriminalization of marijuana, the federal government can (if it wanted to) swoop in and shut it all down…as well as throw a lot of people in jail. However, even the federal government’s seeming immovable (and irrational) resolve to do nothing with respect to medical cannabis is starting to show some signs of giving way.
“Charlotte’s Web Bill”
Most notably, a House bill named “Charlotte’s Web Medical Hemp Act of 2014” was recently introduced to craft an exception to the definition of “marijuana” under the Controlled Substances Act. Allegedly as a product of bipartisan cooperation, this bill would have the effect of legalizing not THC, but rather its sister compound “cannabidiol,” or “CBD,” which is believe to hold potent medical promise without the psychoactive effects of THC. Consequently, this bill, even if it passes, does nothing as far as the legalization of marijuana to the extent any cannabis strain possesses significant levels of THC.
And while many may (rightly) think that this bill does not go far enough, take note that even this attempted concession from the feds was only after taking fire due to the undeniably heart-wrenching story of Charlotte Figi, a 7-year-old Colorado girl suffering from a rare and debilitating form of epilepsy that her parents could only rein in via treatment with a strain of marijuana that possesses very high levels of CBD, with virtually no THC. The creators of the strain have since named it “Charlotte’s Web” in homage to Figi’s admirable legal struggle to properly treat her affliction.
Too Little, Too Slowly?
As encouraging as this bill may be for some, it remains to be seen what comes of it and how it may be compromised during the process of adoption, if it passes at all. Like any other bill, this one must run the gauntlet – it must get through various House committees even before it can be considered on the floor.
Indeed, the fact that we are still at this juncture with respect to CBD under the Controlled Substances Act is a testament to just how slowly the feds are coming around. To date, no less than 11 states have legalized CBD for some type of medical application or research, and a total of 23 states have enacted much broader legislation. Can they all be that progressive compared to the feds? Whatever the reason, the problem with foot dragging is that many people inevitably suffer much longer than they should have to before getting access to CBD-treatment.
