Medicinal Marijuana Policies

Medicinal Marijuana Policies

Evaluate the current policies related to medicinal marijuana

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Medicinal Marijuana Policies

The policies surrounding medicinal marijuana vary significantly between Kenya and the United States, reflecting differing legal frameworks and societal attitudes.

Kenya:

In Kenya, cannabis, locally known as bhang, is illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. This legislation prohibits the possession, cultivation, and use of cannabis, with offenders facing substantial legal penalties. Despite this, there is an ongoing debate about the potential legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes. Notably, medical practitioners and registered pharmacists are legally permitted to possess medical cannabis for patient use, and patients with a valid prescription are allowed to possess it. However, the medical community often contends that medical cannabis remains effectively inaccessible due to regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles. This discrepancy highlights the need for clearer guidelines and reforms to facilitate the practical application of medicinal cannabis in Kenya.

United States:

In contrast, the United States exhibits a complex legal landscape regarding medicinal marijuana, characterized by a dichotomy between federal and state laws. Federally, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, rendering its use illegal under federal law. Despite this, as of March 2023, medicinal marijuana is legal in 39 states, four out of five permanently inhabited U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. These jurisdictions have enacted laws permitting the use of cannabis for medical purposes, each with specific regulations governing its prescription, distribution, and consumption. The federal prohibition poses challenges, including restrictions on research and banking services for cannabis-related businesses. However, legislative efforts, such as the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act signed into law in December 2022, aim to facilitate research into the medical benefits of cannabis, signaling a potential shift in federal policy.

Comparative Analysis:

The primary distinction between Kenya and