Since 1970, marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I drug by the United States federal government. Over the years, controversy grew as people debated both the positive and negative effects of marijuana and whether this classification was accurate. Omaha drug attorney Daniel Stockmann uses his knowledge of marijuana drug laws in his daily work. In Nebraska, in part due to its proximity to Colorado, many citizens find themselves facing drug charges for using, possessing, or distributing marijuana. The debate over marijuana’s drug classification continues as people face the profound consequences of these charges.
Drug Classification System in United States
Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule I drugs are drugs with “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Ecstasy, LSD, and heroin are also in this list with cannabis. Some Schedule II drugs, which fall below Schedule I in terms of potential danger, include methamphetamine and cocaine. The drug scheduling system in the U.S. has caused a lot of controversy. Considering the effects of cannabis compared to the effects of heroin, for instance, many think it seems unreasonable to classify them in the same way and dole out similar legal consequences.
Effects of Medical and Recreational Marijuana
Recreational marijuana use is known to provide a high, which can vary in intensity depending on the marijuana strain, form, and sensitivity of the person consuming it. Regardless, these highs usually result in feelings of euphoria, relaxation, sleepiness, enhanced sensory perception, and/or increased appetite. Though this can be unpredictable at times, it’s safe to say that effects of marijuana are almost always mild.
Advocates for legalizing marijuana often mention the rather mild effects of marijuana and its medical benefits, much of which can’t be said at all for other Schedule I drugs. Medical marijuana has been shown to have beneficial effects on various ailments. It has been known to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s, provide pain relief from arthritis, and alleviate much of the symptoms of depression and anxiety, just to name a few.
Though other Schedule I drugs have been the cause of death in many circumstances, marijuana is not a lethal substance. According to statistics from a 2015 Drug War Facts report, marijuana was the cause of zero deaths. In comparison, deaths from heroin overdose totaled over 10,000. Data like this gives marijuana advocates great reason to push for its reclassification from Schedule I.
Turn to Omaha Drug Attorney Daniel Stockmann for Legal Guidance
While marijuana still remains classified a Schedule I drug, it is up to the states to determine how they will police marijuana use within their borders. In illegal states, people will continue to face severe penalties for consuming, possessing, or selling the plant. Omaha drug attorney Daniel Stockmann is a valuable resource for those in Nebraska facing any of these penalties. If you or someone you know can use expert legal advice, fill out the free case evaluation form on this page or call (402) 884-1031 today.
