This article was originally published on the Marijuana Patients Organization site on May 27, 2015.
Public safety is the chief aim of our public servants and a necessary component to government. From the amount of alcohol in our blood to where we can store booze while traveling, laws may vary from state-to-state, but their message is clear. Sensible and effective public relations campaigns have slowed the number of drunk drivers on our roads, made drivers more aware of the law, and contributed to saving lives.
Ask any gun owner where they are allowed to carry their guns while driving a vehicle. Most will know the answer and most conform to it. The laws regarding guns and driving are spelled out and the message is communicated openly and honestly with law makers, law enforcers and the general pubic.
While there may be clear guidance for handgun and alcohol transport, cannabis and driving are unclear. Some states prefer vagueness in cannabis driving laws and create hazy laws that aim to harm rather than protect the public.
Most law enforcement, be it State or local cops, have banded together in their effort to slow the re-legalization of marijuana. This bias shared by law enforcers has created an environment where the public is left in the dark on laws and best practices while transporting medical and legal pot.
Many drivers are discriminately targeted and arrested based on attitudes of local law enforcement. No real directive or policy has been issued, no fair warning. This grey area leaves open two major issues; unequal enforcement of the law and decreased public safety on our roadways.
If marijuana and driving are so reckless as opponents may have you believe then why are we not sinking money into PR efforts. We requested comment from the Michigan State Police over two weeks ago regarding the vagueness of marijuana transport laws, to date we have heard nothing.
Common inquiries to the MPO are related to driving with marijuana, and varying interpretations of State and local laws. “There is little to no law enforcement training regarding driving with medical marijuana” stated Greg Smith, a lawyer specializing in automobile insurance litigation.
[blockquote type=”left”]Let’s demand clarity in driving laws, for the safety of patients. Medical marijuana patients should not have to risk their freedoms for driving with a legal substance. Clear and honest communication with the public builds trust and safer communities.[/blockquote]
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