Colorado is a state that is sort of leading the pack in trying to make the legalization of medical marijuana work. But it’s more important to not only make the medical marijuana business work in Colorado; it’s important to expand the legalization throughout the country.
Last week, advocates for legalization met in the nation’s capital and encouraged that the federal government stop dismissing the positives of expanding the legal use of medical marijuana. Representatives from the National Cannabis Association and other advocates presented multiple reasons why the medical marijuana industry would help the U.S.
According to sources, supporters of the industry emphasized during the Washington, D.C. meeting that the cannabis business is that – a professional industry. During this time of economic hardship in the country, opening up the doors to a new and profitable industry is in the best financial interest of the U.S. and its workers. There is money to be made and jobs to be created.
Allegedly, however, the federal government has had a difficult time wrapping its brain around the concept that the medical marijuana business is a reputable industry. The Washington Times claims that some dispensaries have been faced with pushback from the IRS.
As a response to such struggles, the director of the NCIA says, “It’s time for the federal government to take this industry seriously.” Not only would doing so mean financial benefits and employment gains for the country, but it would mean that more sick people could get the help they need to improve their quality of life.
Source
The Washington Times: “In the heart of D.C., pot industry pleads its case,” Josh Brown, 30 Mar. 2011