August 09, 2009

This Blog Has Moved

Sorry for the inconvenience but this blog has moved to our home page at: www.potforfreedom.com

please be sure to resubscribe to the blog when you get there.Thanks!!

July 19, 2009

Video Blog Shutdown - Updating Site

Our video blog is down as I have decided to make that wordpress account my home page however at this moment I'm having technical problems and cant seem to get anything to work right. I will post an update as soon as the site changes take effect. I will still have a video page once the site is reconstructed. Thanks for all your support and understanding!

 

In the name of cannabis liberation,

Keary Prophet

July 03, 2009

Industrial Hemp: Bill Passes Oregon Legislature, Heads for Governor's Desk

The Oregon House Monday passed SB 676 by a veto-proof margin of 46-11. The measure would allow for the production, possession, and commercialization of industrial hemp and its products. The measure passed the state Senate on June 19 an equally veto-proof 27-2 margin.

http://stopthedrugwar.org/files/hempplants.jpg
hemp plants
 
 
 
During the House debate, hemp supporter Rep. Jules Bailey (D-Portland) used visual aids to demonstrate the diversity of hemp products, waving around bags of hemp tortilla chips and non-dairy hemp milk. He also held up a t-shirt emblazoned with the words "Senate Bill 676 is about rope, not dope."

"I am glad that Oregon has joined the list of states that have agreed that American farmers should have the right to reintroduce industrial hemp as an agricultural crop," said bill sponsor Sen. Floyd Prozanski (D-South Lane and North Douglas Counties). "By passing SB 676 with strong bipartisan support, the Oregon legislature has taken a proactive position to allow its farmers the right to grow industrial hemp, to provide American manufacturers with domestically-grown hemp, and to profit from that effort."

The industry association Vote Hemp said it was confident Gov. Ted Kulongowski (D) would sign the bill. If he does, or if a veto is overridden, Oregon will become the ninth state to authorize industrial hemp production under state law. It remains forbidden by federal law.

"The time has come for the federal government to act and allow farmers to once again grow hemp, so American companies will no longer need to import it and American farmers will no longer be denied a profitable new crop," said Vote Hemp president Eric Steenstra. "Under current federal policy, industrial hemp can be imported, but it cannot be grown by American farmers. Hemp is a versatile, environmentally-friendly crop that has not been grown in the US for over fifty years because of a misguided and politicized interpretation of the nation's drug laws by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). While a new bill in Congress, H.R. 1866, is a welcome step, the hemp industry is hopeful that President Obama's administration will recognize hemp's myriad benefits to farmers, businesses and the environment," he added.

"We are looking forward to the opportunity to invest in hemp processing and production locally," says Hans Fastre, chief executive officer of Living Harvest, one of the numerous hemp product companies based in Oregon. "This bill represents another step towards heightening the hemp industry's profile within mainstream America and making hemp products more accessible to businesses and consumers."

If the bill becomes law, Oregon will become the second state to approve industrial hemp this year. Maine did so last month. Four other states, Montana, New Mexico, Vermont and North Dakota passed resolutions or memorials urging Congress to allow states to regulate hemp farming this year.

The states that have okayed hemp production are Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, Vermont and West Virginia. North Dakota has even issued licensed to would-be hemp farmers for the past two years, but the federal prohibition has prevented any hemp planting.

 

Other Great Articles like this can be found at the Drug War Chronicle:

Phillip S. Smith, Editor
David Borden, Executive Director

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June 11, 2009

Oklahoma City home of new Law Enforcement Against Prohibition Billboard

June 2009

Dear Supporter,

Not a Member Yet?
Anyone Can Join!



Forward this Message to a Friend!

Law Enforcement Against Prohibition's first-ever ad campaign kicked off with a billboard in Omaha, Nebraska last July, and on June 4, 2009 our second billboard was unveiled in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 

The billboard reads "Drug Abuse is Bad.  The Drug War is Worse." and will travel around Oklahoma City for the next year.  With this effort, LEAP aims to call to attention the urgent need for a more ethical and effective drug policy. 

Below are just a few of the issues our speakers addressed in May.  We hope you'll share "Dispatches from the Front Line…" with a friend.

-LEAP Staff     

June 06, 2009

Drug War Chronicle, Issue #588

 

Drug War Chronicle - world’s leading drug policy newsletter

Issue #588 – 6/5/09


Phillip S. Smith, Editor
David Borden, Executive Director

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Vote Hemp Report: 2009 Hemp Bills Successful!

VH Report header
The Vote Hemp Report Volume IV, Number 3
June 5, 2009

Dear Keary,

Last week, Maine's House passed LD 1159 without objection and the Senate later passed it by a vote of 25 to 10. The bill was Passed To Be Enacted by the House and Senate this week. LD 1159 would establish a licensing regime for farming industrial hemp. Maine previously passed a study bill and has defined industrial hemp in the law.

The State of Oregon is also on the verge of passing industrial hemp legislation. If the Oregon bill succeeds it would join fifteen others that have passed hemp bills.

As many of you know, since 1937, this highly versatile crop (uses include food, fuel, building material, textile, and energy to name a few) has been linked — via the Marijuana Tax Act — to the recreational and medicinal strains of the same species: Cannabis sativa L. But make no mistake, they are genetically distinct and nothing like the other.

The battle has been long. The last legal hemp crop grown in the U.S. was harvested 50 years ago. In 1970, with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act, farming hemp in the U.S. was effectively outlawed. And since then, the courts have offered no relief claiming only Congress can change the status quo.

Nonetheless, with the hemp renaissance's onset in the 80s — and the 90s when states began introducing hemp legislation — grassroots efforts have led to a growing hemp ground swell headed straight towards D.C.

As farmers find themselves mired in the effects of the Great Recession, common sense dictates legal barriers be removed to allow U.S. farmers to add this cash crop to their increasingly limited options as have virtually all other industrialized nations.

Earlier this month, our new drug czar, Gil Kerlikowske, told the Wall Street Journal that the War on Drugs was on its way out. Using this logic, the end of the ludicrous U.S. ban on hemp farming is a no brainer.

Sadly, most elected officials inside the beltway have bought into the "hemp is marijuana" paradigm and have become afraid of their own shadows on this issue. Rep. Ron Paul repeatedly introduces hemp legislation only to be denied a committee hearing in the House.

Gratefully, state legislatures have been willing to step in and lead the way. The tipping point appears near. All that's needed now is for the Obama Administration to take simple measures leaving it to the states to determine their own fate regarding industrial hemp. Yes, the ban on U.S. hemp farming draws near — thanks in no small part to federalism. Please make a donation today to our General Fund to help us continue our work and bring hemp farming back to its rightful place in America.

Sincerely,

Patrick Goggin
Vote Hemp Director

Table of Contents
Current Action Alerts Maine Montana New Mexico North Dakota Oregon Vermont

Maine
Maine State Capitol

Maine had a hemp farming bill introduced on 3/25/09.

An Act Relating to Industrial Hemp. This bill allows a person to grow industrial hemp if that person holds a license issued by the Commissioner of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources and the hemp is grown under a federal permit in compliance with the conditions of that permit.

In the House: The Bill was Read the Second Time and Passed To Be Engrossed as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-356), Sent for concurrence and Ordered Sent Forthwith on 5/27/09.

In the Senate: Roll Call #122, Vote 25 Yeas - 10 Nays. Read A Second Time And Passed To Be Engrossed As Amended By Committee Amendment "A" (H-356) in concurrence on 6/1/09.

Last House Action - Passed To Be Enacted. Sent for concurrence. Ordered Sent Forthwith on 6/3/09. Last Senate Action - Under suspension of the Rules Passed To Be Enacted in concurrence on 6/3/09.


Montana
Montana Capitol

Montana had a resolution, SJ 20, introduced on 2/7/09.

Resolution urging Congress to legalize industrial hemp. Introduced, first reading and referred to Senate Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation Committee on 2/7/09. Committee hearing held on 2/17/09. Third reading and passed the Senate by a vote of 48 to 1 on 2/23/09. Transmitted to the House on 2/23/09. Referred to House Agriculture Committee on 2/24/09. Committee hearing held on 3/17/2009. Third reading and passed the House by a vote of 89 to 11 on 4/02/09. Signed by Senate President on 4/3/09. Signed by House Speaker on 4/6/09. Filed with the Secretary of State on 4/6/09.

Montana residents, please write to Rep. Denny Rehberg and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.


New Mexico
New Mexico Capitol

HM 47 is a memorial requesting the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to investigate the feasibility of state incentives for commercialization of industrial hemp and that Congress be requested to acknowledge the difference between marijuana and industrial hemp and to clearly legalize the commercial production of industrial hemp. Companion bill to SM 30. Introduced 2/19/09. Passed the House by a vote of 44-23 on the 32nd Legislative Day. Signed on the 33rd Legislative Day.

SM 30 is a memorial requesting the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to investigate the feasibility of state incentives for commercialization of industrial hemp and that Congress be requested to acknowledge the difference between marijuana and industrial hemp and to clearly legalize the commercial production of industrial hemp. Companion bill to HM 47. Introduced 2/16/09. Passed the Senate by a vote of 25-12 and Signed on the 47nd Legislative Day

Residents of New Mexico, please write to Your Representatives and ask them to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.


North Dakota
North Dakota Capitol

There were two new bills, HB 1549 and HCR 3026, in North Dakota this year. One is a bill to amend and re-enact section 4-41-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to industrial hemp. The other is a concurrent resolution urging the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to allow North Dakota to regulate industrial hemp farming.

A bill for an Act to amend and reenact section 4-41-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to industrial hemp. Introduced on 1/19/09. House: Second reading, passed, yeas 88 nays 4 on 2/6/09. Senate: Second reading, passed as amended, yeas 40 nays 1 on 3/6/09. House: Second reading passed, yeas 89 nays 3, Senate amendment Concurred on 4/16/09. Signed by Governor on 4/24/09. Filed with Secretary of State on 4/29/09.

HCR 3026, a concurrent resolution urging the DEA to allow North Dakota to regulate industrial hemp farming without requiring federal applications, licenses or fees. Introduced in the House on 1/29/09. Referred to the House Agriculture Committee. Adopted by the House on 2/19/09. Adopted by the Senate on 3/24/09. Returned to the House on 3/25/09. Signed by the Senate President on 4/1/09. Filed with the Secretary of State on 4/7/09.

North Dakotans, please write to Rep. Earl Pomeroy and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.


Oregon
Oregon Capitol

Oregon had a hemp farming bill, SB 676, introduced on 3/3/09.

Permits production and possession of industrial hemp and trade in industrial hemp commodities and products. Introduction and first reading. Referred to President's desk on 3/3/09. Referred to Senate Environment and Natural Resources committee on 3/9/09. Public Hearing held on 3/26/09. Click here to listen to the Public Hearing for SB 676 (mp3 audio 54:40, 49 MB). Work Session held on 4/14/09 and 4/21/09. Recommendation: Do Pass with amendments (Printed A-Eng), Referred to Ways and Means by order of the President and Assigned to Subcommittee On Natural Resources on 5/5/09. Public Hearing held on 5/13/09.


Vermont
VErmont State House

Vermont had a resolution, JRS 26, introduced on 3/27/09.

A joint resolution in support of Act 212 of 2008. The General Assembly urges Congress to Recognize industrial hemp as a valuable agricultural commodity and that the United States Drug Enforcement Administration allow the states to regulate industrial hemp farming without federal applications, licenses or fees. Senate: Read first time & placed on action calendar per Rule 51 on 3/27/09. Adopted on the part of the Senate on 4/14/09. House: Rules Suspended and Taken up for Immediate Consideration, Read second time, proposed amendment agreed to, the resolution was read the third time and passed in concurrence with proposal of amendment on 5/4/09. Senate: House proposal of amendment concurred in on 5/6/09.

Residents of Vermont, please write to Rep. Peter Welch and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.


Current Action Alerts
Take Action

Nationwide: Click here to write your Congressional representative and ask him/her to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866, the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009. If he/she is a co-sponsor already, you will be able to thank them.

The following states have passed resolutions or memorials urging Congress to allow states to regulate hemp farming. Please use the links below to write to your Congressional representative if you are from these states.

Montana: Click here to write to Rep. Denny Rehberg and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.

New Mexico: Click here to write to Your Representatives and ask them to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.

North Dakota: Click here to write to Rep. Earl Pomeroy and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.

Vermont: Click here to write to Rep. Peter Welch and ask him to become a co-sponsor of HR 1866.

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June 05, 2009

Stop extradition of Tulsa man William Joseph Foster

----------------- Bulletin Message -----------------
From: Ed Rosenthal
To:
Date: Jun 4, 2009 2:57 PM
Subject: PLEASE HELP, WRITE THE GOV OF CA AND OK


PLEASE PASS THIS ON, THE LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN WAS SUCCESSFUL WITH THE SONOMA COUNTY DA!!! LETS FINISH THIS!!!

Shortly after Christmas in 1995, police entered a middle class home looking for a meth lab, the warrant was based upon the words of a “reliable” informant. They found no meth, but even more shocking-- they found a marijuana garden so large that it could supply all of Tulsa, and perhaps the whole region.

While people in medical marijuana states such as California might not consider a five foot by five foot garden a threat to the security of the state. In Oklahoma the prosecution and the courts take this crime very seriously. After all, you have to consider the children. What if he started wholesaling his crop in counties all over the state? When you shoot marijuana you only need a little bit to change your mental state, so the yield of that garden, probably 25 pounds or more, could annihilate the youth of a whole town such as Tulsa.

But the people of Oklahoma are not just self righteous but they are prone to justice. So the 93 years that the jury recommended for Will Foster must have been considered from a spiritual point of view and fostered by their fundamentalist ministers. Funny thing about that sentence, the Oklahoma Supreme Court regarded it as cruel and unusual punishment and found that its length was unconstitutional. Will Foster wasn’t that much of a criminal; he could be reformed in only 20 years.

I could go on and give you the whole story again but you’ve read it, you’ve listened to it, and you helped get the California charges dropped through the Facebook, Myspace, Twitter and Blogspot letter campaign. You know what its all about.

The news on the case is that the California charges were dropped and he wasn’t found guilty. Withdrawing the charges, California has moved forward Will’s extradition to Oklahoma. The governors of both states, Gov. Brad Henry of Oklahoma and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California have signed the extradition warrant, it has been served, and if the situation does not change in the next 25 days, Will will be escorted back to Oklahoma in chains.

This case is unique in circumstance but it is really quite ordinary, a person who used marijuana as medicine is busted, harassed and jailed- it happens every day. Somehow though, this case is a little more important because it is symbolic. The people of California probably don’t want Will extradited, they believe it is unfair as well as being an unnecessary financial burden on a state nearing bankruptcy, but the justice factory churns on spewing our broken citizens.

We need some cogs in this wheel. Will needs your help. Check back on my blog www.edrosenthal.blogspot.com to stay informed on how you can help. Email me at asked420@gmail.com You can also join me on Facebook.com for more information, search asked420@gmail.com


HOW YOU CAN HELP:



Please send the following letter to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry. Instructions are provided below.


To Email Gov. Schwarzenegger: click the following link http://gov.ca.gov/interact , choose “need help” - Type in your first and last name along with your email. Choose “Pardon Request” as your subject and click submit, this should bring you to the form where you can copy and paste the letter.

To Email Gov. Brad Henry: click the following link http://www.ok.gov/governor/message.php and fill out the required information. Under Okalahoma counties choose “Tulsa”, When choosing your affiliation we recommend you choose Political Advocate.
-------


Regarding:
William Joseph Foster, D.O.B. 9-12-1958
Oklahoma Incident # 687031 – 12-29-1995
Oklahoma Case # CF-96-49
Oklahoma Docket # 751133

California DOC #252721

Dear Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger,

I am writing to you out of extreme concern regarding the extradition of William Foster.

Tulsa Police originally arrested William Foster in December of 1995. He suffers from degenerative arthritis, and although he knew it was illegal, he chose to treat his condition with medical marijuana rather than costly and harmful pharmaceuticals. He was convicted after his 5’x 5’ marijuana garden was raided and sentenced to 93 years in prison. After media attention (Dateline NBC, 20/20 ABC, Frontline, BBC and more) to the cruel and unusual sentencing of Will, a first time non-violent offender, Foster was re-sentenced to 20 years.

In 2001, after serving 4 ½ years of his 20 year sentence, he was released and as a condition of his parole was told to leave the state. He moved to Santa Rosa, California –with permission from Oklahoma- and kept monthly contact with his parole officer.

Due to administrative complications, Oklahoma issued a warrant for Foster and he was taken into custody in 2008. Oklahoma has now issued an extradition warrant for Foster, claiming he is a fugitive of justice, which was signed by both Governor Brad Henry and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I am writing you to request that you pardon Will Foster and cancel the extradition. It is in the interest of justice and the taxpayers of both states that Foster’s extradition be canceled. Limited resources would be more wisely spent containing violent offenders rather than extending the incarceration and prosecution of a non-violent crime.

Top Anti-Drug Researcher Changes His Mind, Says Legalize Marijuana

 From: Stop the Drug War http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle_blog/2009/jun/03/top_anti_drug_researcher_changes

 

For 30 years, Donald Tashkin has studied the effects of marijuana on lung function. His work has been funded by the vehemently anti-marijuana National Institute on Drug Abuse, which has long sought to demonstrate that marijuana causes lung cancer. After 3 decades of anti-drug research, here's what Tashkin has to say about marijuana laws:

"Early on, when our research appeared as if there would be a negative impact on lung health, I was opposed to legalization because I thought it would lead to increased use and that would lead to increased health effects," Tashkin says. "But at this point, I'd be in favor of legalization. I wouldn't encourage anybody to smoke any substances. But I don't think it should be stigmatized as an illegal substance. Tobacco smoking causes far more harm. And in terms of an intoxicant, alcohol causes far more harm." [McClatchy]

We've been told a thousand times that marijuana destroys your lungs, that it's 5 times worse than cigarettes, and on and on. Yet here is Donald Tashkin, literally the top expert in the world when it comes to marijuana and lung health, telling us it's time to legalize marijuana. His views are shaped not by ideology, but rather by the 30 years he spent studying the issue. He didn't expect the science to come out in favor of marijuana, but that's what happened and he's willing to admit it.

Here's the study that really turned things around:

UCLA's Tashkin studied heavy marijuana smokers to determine whether the use led to increased risk of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. He hypothesized that there would be a definitive link between cancer and marijuana smoking, but the results proved otherwise.

"What we found instead was no association and even a suggestion of some protective effect," says Tashkin, whose research was the largest case-control study ever conducted.

Prejudice against marijuana and smoking in general runs so deep for many people that it just seems inconceivable that marijuana could actually reduce the risk of lung cancer. But that's what the data shows and it not only demolishes a major tenet of popular anti-pot propaganda, but also points towards a potentially groundbreaking opportunity to develop cancer cures through marijuana research.

Over and over again, all the bad things we've been told about marijuana are revealed to be not only false, but often the precise opposite of the truth. So the next time someone tells you that marijuana is worse for your lungs than cigarettes, you might want to mention that the world's leading expert on that subject happens to be a supporter of legalization.

June 03, 2009

LEAP Billboard Unveiled in OK This Week- Volunteers Needed

Dear Supporter,

Law Enforcement Against Prohibition’s first-ever ad campaign kicked off with a billboard in Omaha, NE last July, and this week LEAP’s second billboard will be unveiled in Oklahoma City.  The billboard will read “Drug Abuse is Bad.  The Drug War is Worse.” 

As a LEAP member, we need your help.  If you have access to a video camera and are available to record the billboard being put up, please email Kristin.daley@leap.cc .  The billboard will go up sometime between tomorrow, June 3 and Friday, June 5.  We will have a better idea of the exact time when we hear from the billboard company later today, so it may be fairly short notice. 

With the unveiling of the new billboard, LEAP aims to call attention to the urgent need for a more effective and ethical drug policy.  The current state of the U.S. economy makes ending prohibition all the more pivotal.  Every year that the “war on drugs” continues costs U.S. taxpayers billions, despite the fact that 76% of all Americans believe it is a failure.

Again, if you are able to help, please let us know.  As always, thank you for your support of LEAP.

May 22, 2009

Drug War Chronicle - Issue #586 – 5/22/09

Drug War Chronicle - Issue #586 – 5/22/09


Phillip S. Smith, Editor
David Borden, Executive Director

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California medical marijuana grower, spiritualist, and activist Eddy Lepp was sentenced Monday to a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence on federal marijuana cultivation charges in a case where he grew more than 20,000 pot plants in plain view of a state highway in Northern California's Lake County. US District Court Judge Marilyn Patel also sentenced him to five years probation. He must report to federal authorities by July 6.

http://stopthedrugwar.org/files/eddylepp2.jpg
Eddy Lepp (courtesy cannabisculture.com)
Lepp contended that the plants were a medical marijuana grow for members of the Multi Denominational Ministry of Cannabis and Rastafari and legal under California law. But during his trial, he was not allowed to introduce medical marijuana or religious defenses. He was found guilty of conspiracy to possess marijuana with the intent to distribute more than 1,000 pot plants and of cultivating more than 1,000 plants, which carries a maximum life sentence.

According to California NORML (CANORML) and the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat, there were gasps and sobs from Lepp supporters in the courtroom as Patel passed sentence. The sentence was "extreme," Patel conceded, but said her hands were tied by federal law.

In a nod toward the current turmoil over the status of federal prosecutions of medical marijuana providers, Judge Patel said Lepp could apply for a rehearing if the laws changed. Lepp and his attorneys plan to appeal the verdict and the sentence.

Lepp attorney Michael Hall told Patel the sentence was "incredible."

"Incredible is what the law requires," Patel responded, adding that legalizing marijuana appeared to be Lepp's driving passion. "Maybe you want to be a martyr for the cause," she said.

Sentencing Lepp, a 56-year-old veteran in ill health, to prison is a travesty and a waste, said supporters. "This case sadly illustrates the senselessness of federal marijuana laws," said CANORML's Dale Geiringer. "The last thing this country needs is more medical marijuana prisoners. Hopefully, we can change the law and get Eddy out of jail before he completes his sentence."

"Locking up Eddy Lepp serves no purpose and is a huge waste of life and scarce prison space," said Aaron Smith, California policy director of the Marijuana Policy Project. "The community would be a lot better served if we taxed and regulated California's $14 billion marijuana industry rather than continuing to incarcerate nonviolent people like Eddy, who are clearly of no danger to society."

Medical Marijuana - Oklahoma Compassionate Care Campaign

From: Oklahoma Compassionate Care Campaign

 

A look at proposed legislation for legalized medical marijuana in Oklahoma available here.


Please Help the Oklahoma Compassionate Care Campaign Raise Funds! Go here.


FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Federal law prohibits any use of marijuana, but Maine, Vermont, Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, New Mexico, Michigan and Rhode Island allow it to be grown and used for medicinal purposes.

Legal medical marijuana is not available in Oklahoma. Sick Oklahomans need your help to allow them to seek medical marijuana treatment. It has been found to aid those suffering from chronic pain, glaucoma, neurologic disorders, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, AIDS-wasting syndrome, and nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.

Doctors and patients in 12 states can freely decide if marijuana is the best medicine. Unfortunately in Oklahoma, citizens who need marijuana are treated like common criminals. They are locked up in our very overcrowded prisons and then we have to pay for their medical care. Our law provides no defense based on a medical necessity, even when a person cannot afford drug store medicines.


DPRNOK Needs Your Support!

We are seeking endorsements from Oklahoma doctors, patients, and prominent organizations.

We need Oklahomans who could benefit from medical marijuana to tell their stories and/or even testify to legislators about those who are either sick or in pain and who want or need medical marijuana. All interviews will be kept private unless we have your permission to tell your story.

red arrow Please use this online form to tell your story, or phone (405)714-1236.
red arrow Mail to: DPRNOK, 601 S. Washington #203, Stillwater, OK 74074.
red arrow Our web site: Drug Policy Forum of Oklahoma
Please call your OK senator and representative and tell them to sponsor, or support, the Oklahoma Compassionate Care Medical Marijuana bill. Find your legislators here, or at the Oklahoma Election Board (405)521-2391, or contact your county election board.

ARE YOU A PATIENT WHO COULD BENEFIT FROM USING MARIJUANA AS A MEDICINE? ARE YOU A HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL WHO IS AWARE OF ITS THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS? PLEASE CONTACT US NOW!!



Medical marijuana is "...one of the safest therapeutically active substances known to man." by the Honorable Francis Young, Administrative Law Judge Drug Enforcement Agency - 1989
To DPFOK front page

May 03, 2009

Alva Ok, 4th annual Global Marijuana March - Flier

Alva Ok, 4th Annual Global Marijuana March
Friday, May, 8th 2009
FREE PUBLIC VIEWING of “Hemplands Conspiracy” (www.UFOTV.com)
A story of the Kentucky Hemp Farmers and the history of Industrial Hemp in America.

NWOSU Student Center Ranger Room

11:20 am - 12:40 pm

March With Us!!
From the College to the Wood County Courthouse Starts around 1:00 pm After the public viewing.

PROTEST AT: Woods County Courthouse Around 2:00 pm
on College & Flynn

Guest Speakers Will appear at both events.
Please bring your own food and drinks. Keep your trash picked up and all vehicles off the lawn. Thanks!!

PLEASE JOIN US!
And help:
Support the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009, Medical Marijuana & use by responsible adults

So We Can
Build better communities, save family farms, release the medicine and heal our sick, reduce prison over crowding,
stop arresting non violent offenders, reduce Government spending, create new job markets, 
save the economy, reverse the greenhouse effect, save our planet and give our kids a better place to live and be free.

Alva Ok, 4th Annual Global Marijuana March
Brought to you by: Keary Prophet (www.potforfreedom.com) Sponsored by: Drug Policy forum of Oklahoma (www.dpfok.org)
 & Global Marijuana March (www.globalmarijuanamarch.org)
 
GRAB A FLIER AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD:  http://www.scribd.com/doc/14789086/alva-ok-flyer-gmm-2009
FLIER in PDF FORMAT:  http://www.scribd.com/document_downloads/14789086?extension=pdf&secret_password=

April 19, 2009

DPA - Action Alert

You Can Make a Difference

Dear Supporter,

Tell President Obama it's time for a serious debate about marijuana prohibition.

Take Action Now
Email the president.

"I don’t know what this says about the online audience," joked President Obama during his first virtual town hall meeting. He was dismissing an idea submitted by tens of thousands of Americans: making marijuana legal.

This week, President Obama is visiting Mexico and seeing first hand the drug war violence that is spilling over our southern border, violence you and I know is fueled by marijuana prohibition.

Now that he’s seen what’s really happening, you have the chance to tell the president it's time for a serious discussion about the consequences of marijuana prohibition.

Thousands of people have been killed in the drug war in Mexico in the last couple of years. The drug traffickers are stockpiling machine guns and grenades and now are operating in hundreds of U.S. cities. This level of violence is the inevitable result of policies that create a lucrative black market.

You and I understand that ending marijuana prohibition would reduce violence and corruption the same way ending alcohol Prohibition did. I hope now that President Obama has seen the grisly consequences of marijuana prohibition first hand, he will no longer joke about marijuana law reform. Join me in telling him: This issue is deadly serious, and it's time to put all options on the table.

Sincerely,

Bill Piper
Director, Office of National Affairs
Drug Policy Alliance Network

April 10, 2009

Drug War Chronicle Issue #580 – 4/10/09

Phillip S. Smith, Editor
David Borden, Executive Director

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April 09, 2009

Marijuana Legalization for World Peace ( a great piece by: American Pot Smoker)

 

From: American Pot Smoker <americanpotsmoker4@gmail.com>


Subject: Marijuana Legalization for World Peace
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2009, 12:02 AM

Dear Mr. President,

 

I am writing to you in response to your Virtual Town Meeting held on March 26, 2009 at the White House.  Many questions from online members addressed the topic of marijuana legalization.  This topic, as indicated from you was one of the most voted topics from approximately 3.6 million votes, to be discussed in this online event.  From what is indicated on the website http://www.whitehouse.gov/openforquestions, 8 out of the top 10 most voted questions were related to marijuana. 

 

What was paraphrased by you was, “whether legalizing marijuana would improve the economy and job creation”.  The top question with nearly 8,000 votes was, “With over 1 out of 30 Americans controlled by the penal system, why not legalize, control, and tax marijuana to change the failed war on drugs into a money making, money saving boost to the economy? Do we really need that many victimless criminals?  Yet this question was not displayed on your presentation, or any that were related to the topic of marijuana.

 

I was completely disappointed, along with many of our fellow Americans, on your passive response.  You had answered the paraphrased question with a snicker saying, “I don’t know what this says about our online audience…the answer is NO, I don’t think this is a good strategy to improve our economy,” without articulating a reason for your position on this topic.  Subsequently, Robert Gibbs, White House Press Secretary was asked to clarify your position on the legalization of marijuana.  Mr. Gibbs indicated, “The President opposes the legalization of marijuana, and I’d say I did that with not even the slightest bit of laughter…he doesn’t think it’s the right plan for America”.  Based on previous statements from your campaign, the American People want to know if we hired the right person to carry out this agenda.

 

Firstly, I would like to tell you about more about your online audience, which includes me.  This group of people is comprised of smart, productive, insightful, and brilliant American citizens who had made the difference in your campaign, and eventual vote into becoming the 44th President of the United States of America.  We are made up of Americans that are just like you.  We are responsible Americans, who work, pay taxes, spend money, and create business in America.    We are Americans who are losing the quality of education and after school programs for our children.  We are young and aging Americans who are need of world class healthcare, but many of Us cannot afford.  We are Americans who are struggling to make a living in a bleak economy, while trying to maintain our composure.  We are Americans that are need of food, clothing, and shelter, where many of Us are losing everyday because of increasing prices and unemployment.  We are Americans who are the highest consumers of fossil fuels in the world, and are looking for clean fuel alternatives. We are Americans who are dying everyday from the war on drugs and terror that is predicated upon the protection of corporate monopolies and cartels, and perpetuated by a pathological bureaucratic system.  We are Americans who are sick and tired of being denied our “inalienable Rights endowed by (our) Creator”; the right to live “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness”.   Most of all, we are Americans who love and care about our country, and value the well being and safety for ourselves, our friends, and our families here at home, and around the world.

 

Secondly, I want address the stereotype and misconception of the supporters of marijuana and hemp.  The common stereotype is of people who are strictly recreational marijuana smokers who are lazy, incompetent, and non-contributors to society.  In actuality, this group can be characterized by the many Americans described above, and is not necessarily marijuana smokers.  Supporters of this position are passionate about having a viable solution to the many issues and challenges that your Administration faces today, vis-à-vis your plan.  This includes the US/Global financial crisis, job creation, affordable housing, education, health care, the fuel crisis, sustainability and environmental responsibility, curbing hunger and starvation worldwide, the war on drugs and terror, etc.  Why are We prohibiting ourselves from a plant that dates back use from ancient times, and can solve the underlining problems above?

 

Overall, the American People deserve a chance to engage in an open objective forum, that discusses the merits of marijuana and hemp. This panel would ideally include experts from around the world, that range from doctors, scientists, economists, sociologists, civil rights and US Constitution experts, and many other industry experts.  The American People would also like your Administration to revisit the Schaffer Commission Report, and continue to analyze these recommendations that the Nixon Administration dismissed in 1972.  Ultimately, the American People are interested in the next steps towards the legalization of marijuana and hemp in the United States of America!

 

We are looking forward for the leadership, courage, and bravery of your presidency, to lead Us into the HOPE, CHANGE, and PROGRESS that your campaign professes, into a new and promising America.  Thank you for taking the time to hear Us out, and representing Us as the Voice of America! 

 

Respectfully Yours,

 

American Pot Smoker

 

“It was the sails and ropes from the Mayflower; the paper, ink, and words from the Declaration of Independence; the will and determination of the American People that set Us free.  YES WE CAN(nibus)!”

 --- American Pot Smoker

 

“When I was a kid, I inhaled frequently.  That was the point.”

--- Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States of America

Legalized Medical Marijuana Company Now Public Stock, Really

http://www.420magazine.com


If you thought that the legalized Marijuana for medicinal purposes was a controversial, imagine how controversial it would be if a company was public in the sector of legalized Marijuana. Forget the “if” in the equation. This week, a small and formerly unknown company called Club Vivanet announced that it is the first public company to enter the legalized, medical Marijuana business. The company even changed its name to Medical Marijuana, Inc. While it does not trade on the NYSE nor on the NASDAQ, the stock does trade over-the-counter under the ticker “CVIV” and is listed as Medical Marijuana, Inc. (OTC: CVIV) on the pink sheets.


This morning the company filed a patent application for an invention that the company says “potentially satisfies various governmental and the medical Marijuana dispensaries’ needs for tax collection in the medical Marijuana industry.” This is to identify the dispensary’s tax ID number and tax rates for state and local taxes.


Medical Marijuana, Inc. is currently undergoing a 1-10 forward split and a ticker symbol change to reflect its new name in the stock market. The company is spinning off two subsidiaries on a share-for-share basis (pre 10 for 1 forward split) of the shares of Club Vivanet, Inc. (a Florida corporation) and MyNewPedia Corp (a Colorado Corporation).


The company’s description says that it is positioned to take advantage of opportunities as they appear in the emerging legal medical Marijuana industry through an enhanced payment gateway introducing verifiable levels of enhanced security. It also states that a trend is in place that clearly indicates medical Marijuana is quickly becoming a legal enterprise in need of various solutions in numerous areas.


Bruce Perlowin is serving as the company’s new Chairman and CEO. He has been referred to as the “King of Pot” in various articles and was recently interviewed on CNBC’s most popular feature called “Marijuana, Inc.” Here is a link to that video interview.

http://www.cnbc.com/id/28621704

Whether or not this one takes off is something we won’t speculate on. If you ever thought that cannabis, pot, weed, or Hemp were not going to be applied to a public company, it looks like that has changed. The Mustang Ranch, a brothel in Nevada, had tried to come public before. A brothel in Australia did manage to go public at one time. It seems that even for a legalized medical Marijuana company coming public, stranger things have happened.


Track this stock here: http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=CVIV.PK

From the Editor: When we were approached by Mr. Perlowin at Medical Marijuana, Inc. to disseminate their press release, we were truly excited and anxious to get to work with them. Having such respect for Bruce and his team, we decided to give a below cost quote to help them get started. This was our way of saying thanks and instigating a special bond between us, in hopes of building a long term relationship. We quoted Mr. Perlowin the price of 1,000 shares from his new company, in exchange for sending out the company press releases for a period of 6 months. He replied by stating the cost was too low and that he did not feel we were charging him accordingly for the work being done, so he bumped the offer up to 5,000 shares without hesitation.
He began speaking about the “Outlaw Code”, saying this was more of a fair deal, going on to say, “I'm not inclined to take advantage of anyone in any business deal - quite a refreshing change from the way public companies are run today a!
nd very different from the old days when we ran around with suitcases full of money and did deals on a hand shake.” Bruce Perlowin and his team are real life Cannabis Warriors and very dear friends who we are truly grateful to be associated with.
Not only is Bruce true to his word, he’s even printing the shares on Hemp paper!

Thank you Brother Bruce and everyone at Medical Marijuana, Inc.

Rob Griffin - Editor in Chief - 420 Magazine, Inc.


Please visit these websites for more information
http://www.bruceperlowin.com

http://www.medicalmarijuanainc.com

News Hawk- http://www.420magazine.com
Source: 24/7 Wall Street
Author: JON C.
OGG
Copyright: 2009 24/7 Wall Street
Website: http://www.420magazine.com/forums/international-cannabis-news/91794-legalized-medical-marijuana-company-now-public-stock-really-cviv.html

April 05, 2009

Press Release: Representatives Barney Frank and Ron Paul Introduce Hemp Farming Legislation


http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/579/frank_paul_industrial_hemp_bill_introduced

press release from Vote Hemp:

WASHINGTON, DC: A federal bill was introduced today that will remove restrictions on the cultivation of non-psychoactive industrial hemp. The chief sponsors of HR 1866, "The Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009," Representatives Barney Frank (D-MA) and Ron Paul (R-TX) were joined by nine other US House members split equally between Republicans and Democrats.



hemp being harvested (courtesy Wikipedia)

"It is unfortunate that the federal government has stood in the way of American farmers, including many who are struggling to make ends meet, from competing in the global industrial hemp market," said Representative Ron Paul during his introduction of the bill today before the US House. "Indeed, the founders of our nation, some of whom grew hemp, would surely find that federal restrictions on farmers growing a safe and profitable crop on their own land are inconsistent with the constitutional guarantee of a limited, restrained federal government. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to stand up for American farmers and cosponsor the Industrial Hemp Farming Act," concluded Paul.

"With so much discussion lately in the media about drug policy, it is surprising the tragedy of American hemp farming hasn't come up as a 'no-brainer' for reform," says Vote Hemp President, Eric Steenstra. "Hemp is a versatile, environmentally friendly crop that has not been grown for over 50 years because of a politicized interpretation of the nation's drug laws by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). President Obama should direct the DEA to avoid confusing industrial hemp and it's genetically distinct cousin marijuana. While the new bill in Congress is a welcome step, the hemp industry is hopeful the President Barack Obama's administration will prioritize hemp's benefits to farmers. There are jobs that would be created over night as there are numerous American companies that have no choice but to import hemp worth many millions of dollars per year," says Steenstra.

US companies that manufacture or sell products made with hemp include Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps, a California company who manufactures the number-one-selling natural soap, and FlexForm Technologies, an Indiana company whose natural fiber materials are used in over two million cars. Hemp food manufacturers such as French Meadow Bakery, Hempzels, Living Harvest, Nature's Path and Nutiva now make their products from Canadian hemp. Although hemp grows wild across the US, a vestige of centuries of hemp farming, the hemp for these products must be imported. Hemp clothing is made around the world by well-known brands such as Patagonia, Bono's Edun and Giorgio Armani.

There is strong support among key national organizations for a change in the federal government's position on hemp. The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) "supports revisions to the federal rules and regulations authorizing commercial production of industrial hemp."

Numerous individual states have expressed interest in industrial hemp as well. Sixteen states have passed pro-hemp legislation; eight (Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, Vermont and West Virginia) have removed barriers to its production or research. North Dakota has issued state licenses, two years running. The new bill will removes federal barriers and allow laws in these states regulating the growing and processing of industrial hemp to take effect.

More information about hemp legislation and the crop's many uses can be found at www.VoteHemp.com. BETA SP and DVD Video News Releases featuring footage of hemp farming in other countries are available upon request by contacting Adam Eidinger at adam@mintwood.com.

Drug War Issues: Hemp

March 28, 2009

Tell President Obama That Legalizing Marijuana Is No Laughing Matter

Take Action Tell President Obama That Legalizing Marijuana Is No Laughing Matter

Speaking at an online Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, March 26, President Barack Obama pledged "to open up the White House to the American people."

Well, to some of the American people that is.

As for those tens of millions of you who believe that cannabis should be legally regulated like alcohol -- and the tens of thousands of you who voted to make this subject the most popular question in the White House's online Presidential Town Hall -- well, your voice doesn't really matter.

Asked this morning whether he "would ... support the bill currently going through the California legislation to legalize and tax marijuana, boosting the economy and reducing drug cartel related violence," the President responded with derision.

"There was one question that was voted on that ranked fairly high and that was whether legalizing marijuana would improve the economy and job creation, and I don't know what this says about the online audience," he laughed.

"The answer is no, I don't think that [is] a good strategy."

As I wrote in the Hill.com's influential congressional blog today, Obama's cynical rebuff was short-sighted and disrespectful to a large percentage of his supporters. After all, was it not this very same "online audience" that donated heavily to Obama's Presidential campaign and ultimately carried him to the White House?

Please take a moment to tell the President that marijuana law reform is no laughing matter, and that the millions of Americans who support this issue deserve to be treated respectfully. For your convenience, a pre-written letter will be e-mailed to President Obama when you enter your contact information below.

You can also call the President during east coast business hours at:

  • Comments: 202-456-1111
  • Switchboard: 202-456-1414

If you call, please be respectful and polite. Please leave your name and where you are from. Tell the President:

"I'm one of the tens of millions of Americans who believe that cannabis should be legally regulated like alcohol.

The American public is ready and willing to engage in a serious and objective political debate regarding the merits of legalizing the use of cannabis by adults. The time for joking is over.

Please consider apologizing for your dismissive tone, and please consider treating those of us who believe that there are viable alternatives to marijuana prohibition with the respect we deserve."

Thank you for assisting NORML's federal law reform efforts.

 

Take Action

March 11, 2009

THE CANNABIS CAUCUS ~ A TWO-DAY WORLD CONFERENCE

THE CANNABIS CAUCUS
A TWO-DAY WORLD CONFERENCE
“One Mission-One Meeting”
Friday and Saturday, May 8th and 9th, 2009
Kansas City, Missouri

Impetus Summary

On May 2, 2009, the world will again unite as it has for 30 years to eradicate the false information and propaganda of the use of hemp across the world. The information has been widely known of the plants’ alternative fuel sources, medicinal usage and personal use and the time has come for those, the organizers of the world movement to heal the sick, release the medicine, save our forests
and stop the unlawful destruction of the earth.

On May 8th & 9th , 2009 in Kansas City, Missouri, this “Cannabis Caucus: A World Conference” is being convened in the Heartland to:

  • Address in ONE meeting the need for greater legislative intervention on the part of the world’s people
  • Form a world strategy to start the process of de-criminalizing hemp
  • Create a marketplace for the products and services of cannabis to expose an uninformed public of its historic development in agriculture as it pertains to the vast fortunes built on its cultivation
  • Provide a speaker's forum of international proponents of hemp
  • And lastly, convening on behalf of the world’s people a spiritual based approach to peace by healing the planet; inviting all of the world, regardless of beliefs to understand that we are one with the earth and should protect its interest along with ours.

This outline of activities is designed as a road map to perpetuate a yearly legislative gathering of world supporters of Hemp and Cannabis, to build a greater awareness of the plant and begin to move de-criminalization legislation, cultivation rights for the small farmers
by lobbying those states in America that do not currently support the efforts of this world movement.

There is a very short time frame to present this conference as it should occur approximately one week after the world meetings. This timing is important as the world meetings will have one week to “pack up” so to speak and make the pilgrimage to the Midwest where Hemp gained world prominence in agriculture. Using this historic information on the plant, an ‘exclusive” invitation to the decision makers to further the agenda of the movement, utilize international speakers and organize a sound, documented political strategy is a bold, economically sound venture into the betterment of man’s ills. Thus this conference will take on a form of its own; enabling the organizers to advance at an accelerated pace. Time is of the essence.

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.’ - Jimi Hendrix

THE CANNABIS CAUCUS: A WORLD CONFERENCE
"ONE MISSION-ONE MEETING"


Friday, May 8th
Conference Participants Arrive in Kansas City
Hotel and Conference Registration (from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm)
Exhibit Hall Opens for Vendors (6:00 am to 10:00 pm - See Exhibit Rules and Regulations)

Saturday, May 9th
(Registration participants only)

9AM - 10AM
Session I Jordon Baldwin

10AM-10:30AM
Break

10:30AM -11:30AM
Session II Anita Dixon

11:30AM - 12:00PM
Break

12:00PM -1:30PM
Lunch Jack Herer

1:30PM - 2:30PM
Session III Crag Lee

2:30PM - 3:00PM
Break

3:00PM - 4:00PM
Session IV Dan Veits

Conference Registration fee: $175.00 USD

6:00PM -8:00PM
Legislatures Invitational

Free and Open to the Public

The public is welcome to join the international participants in the Cannabis Caucus to an invitational speakers gathering consisting of local, state, national and international decision makers, agricultural and scientific supporters of HEMP and Cannabis for medicinal purposes. Invitations will have been sent to Congressional and Senatorial seats, state and local governing bodies to come
speak on the subject. All that do not show will be entered into the roll to lobby in Congress the following year. An international petition to save the planet will be circulated and sent to Congress and the United Nations.

Command Center Open Until Midnight (Close Out)

Exhibit Hall Open Until 8:00 pm (Close Out)

Saturday Night Entertainment
Buses Leave for the Kansas City Jazz All Nighter!

12th Street and Vine Goin’ To Kansas City Plaza Pictures
Clubs on 18th & Vine
Mutual Musicians Foundation
American Jazz Museum’s Blue Room
Drums and Jazz Street Scene

Sunday, May 10th, 2009

WAKE UP WORLD!
Prayer Breakfast for the Earth
8:00 to 10:00 am
POD Cast to the World ($25 per person)

This prayer breakfast will bring together cultural, religious and secular spiritualists who believe that bringing the spirit light to our world will begin the healing of our earth, our people’s finances
and release the sick from pain.
Check Out for participants is 11:00 am, Sunday, May 10, 2009

Entertainment

Reggae Mothers Day Massive

Featuring hottest local reggae bands

Venue: TBA
Special VIP Guest appearance: TBA
77Jefferson
Livitation Station
SeedLove
Irietions
Yeshimabet
(wyaem)
SahjKaya
Jahration
and more!!!!!!

Dedicated to Cedella Marley, Mother of Bob Marley,
The Matriarch that brought forth these precious seeds that speak reggae to the world and all the other mothers that love, protect, and teach.

2009 Industrial Hemp Bill - Please Write to Your Congressional Representatives

VH Alert header



   
Please Write to Your Congressional Representatives
Ask Them to Sponsor the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009!
Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009

Washington, DC March 11, 2009

We are pleased to announce that the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009 will be introduced soon. Yesterday, the offices of Rep. Ron Paul and Rep. Barney Frank sent out a Dear Colleague letter to members of Congress inviting them to be original co-sponsors of the Act, which does not yet have a bill number.

Please click here to write your Congressional representatives and ask them to consider becoming an original co-sponsor of the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009.

The legislation, which has been introduced twice in past years, would allow American farmers to once again grow hemp to the extent allowed under state laws, repealing a provision in federal law that makes the U.S. the only industrialized nation where farmers are prohibited from competing in the booming industrial hemp market. The legislation is identical to HR 1009 introduced in the 110th Congress.

The Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009 would finally allow North Dakota, and the other states that have passed pro-hemp legislation or resolutions (Arkansas, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia), considered pro-hemp legislation or resolutions (Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wisconsin), or where farm groups have advocated for a return to industrial hemp farming (Ohio and Pennsylvania), to choose whether or not to let farmers grow industrial hemp.

Please click here to write your Congressional representatives today!


U.S. Capitol in Winter

About Vote Hemp

Vote Hemp is a national, single-issue, non-profit organization dedicated to the acceptance of and a free market for low-THC industrial hemp and to changes in current law to allow U.S. farmers to once again grow the crop.

Support Vote Hemp

Vote Hemp depends on donations from people like you to support our work. Please consider making a donation to Vote Hemp today.

Vote Hemp, Inc.
Tom Murphy
National Outreach Coordinator
phone: 207-542-4998