ABSTRACT
Chapter 2: The Landscape of Cannabis Policy provides an overview of how marijuana has been defined in legal and scientific realms. The chapter explains the layers of local, state, federal, and international policies that comprise drug laws, and summarizes the major shifts in federal policies over the 20th century. A summary of the introduction of current state medical marijuana programs in 47 states, and the federal government's responses is provided. Explanations walk through timelines of legislation, attempts at rescheduling, professional medical opinion, scientific discovery, and public opinion. The chapter ends with an introduction to important structural aspects of Colorado’s law, regulations, and program.
