Project 2025's Take On Marijuana

If the Republican presidential candidate wins the election, the Heritage Foundation will influence policy… which is its stance on cannabis.

The marijuana industry's potential for survival depends on the next election. Federal restrictions have made it difficult for mom-and-pop businesses to operate, and the lack of tax benefits that benefit other small businesses has been brutal. Biden's slow action on his promises has allowed the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to delay its decision on the postponement until December, after the election. This gives the DEA some leeway in its decision. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is taking over from Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in trying to stop the cannabis industry. He made it clear to the DEA that they should refuse any assistance for cannabis. So what does it mean for cannabis if the Republican candidate wins? The Heritage Foundation has created a plan for the future administration that has been embraced by senior leaders, including vice presidential candidate JD Vance, who wrote an opening statement. So how does your Project 2025 feel about marijuana?

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The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank founded in 1973, has consistently taken a strong stance against marijuana legalization. Their position is rooted in concerns about public health, safety and social impacts. The Heritage Foundation has not stayed current on cannabis research or public opinion, but the plan lays out a clear roadmap for a complete change in government.

The American Medical Association, AARP and the American College of Physicians are some of the organizations that believe marijuana has a legal role because it offers medical benefits. About 90% of the population believes it should be legal in some form. The Veterans Administration has changed its policies to support veterans with PTSD. The Heritage Foundation argues that marijuana is an addictive substance with significant negative effects on physical and mental health

While science and data in legal states have debunked the myths, including that it is a gateway drug for youth, the Heritage Foundation clings to old tropes. They argue that consumption leads to the use of harder and more dangerous substances. This perspective forms a crucial part of their resistance to legalization efforts.

They argue that legalization could lead to an increase in crime rates. Legal states have refuted this using data and crime rates. An additional benefit has been a decrease in alcohol consumption as people relax with gummy bears.

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The Heritage Foundation advocates for comprehensive drug policy with increased law enforcement, treatment, and prevention and education. This is consistent with the stance of House Speaker Mike Johnson.

The Heritage Foundation's stance on marijuana legalization is consistent with its broader conservative principles and emphasizes personal responsibility with a dash of government control. Their arguments continue to influence the ongoing debate over marijuana policy in the United States.