Cannabis Legalization

Access to legal cannabis stores is associated with a reduction in opioid-related deaths in the United States, particularly those linked to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, finds a study published by The BMJ.

It is estimated that an increase from one to two cannabis dispensaries in a county was associated with an estimated 17% reduction in all opioid-related mortality rates. An increase from two to three dispensaries was associated with a further 8.5% reduction in all opioid related mortality rates. Their findings are based on data for 812 counties within the 23 US states that allowed legal cannabis dispensaries to operate by the end of 2017.

Marijuana for medicinal use is now permitted to be grown at home in Argentina following a decree issued by President Alberto Fernández. In addition pharmacies will be allowed to sell cannabis-derived oils, creams and other products, and it orders public and private insurance systems to cover these medications for patients who obtain a prescription.

In 2019 Canada has revealed a program to grant Canadians an easy way to be granted a pardon if they have a criminal record for simple possession of cannabis.

Since the creation of the program, 458 people have applied for a pardon at the Parole Board of Canada (PBC). Out of these applications, 194 have been returned because of ineligibility or incomplete files. 257 have been granted and two have been discontinued. Five cases are still in the process.

In 2018 Canada has passed the Cannabis Act legalized and regulated the possession, distribution, consumption and cultivation of marijuana for recreational used.

The city of Los Angeles writes in their guidelines that "cannabis dispensaries, or any related and/or ancillary healthcare services" are still allowed to open during the coronavirus lockdown and forced closure of businesses.