Cannabis reclassification could help combat stigma

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – Efforts to decriminalize cannabis are underway on Capitol Hill, as the Department of Justice recently moved to re-classify the drug as a less dangerous substance.

The stigma of cannabis is an issue several advocates of the drug have fought against for decades.

One employee at Holyoke Cannabis considers the drug a plant, that helps people get through their day, relieve stress and sleep better. Jacob Berlin with Holyoke Cannabis told 22News, “It’s just a miracle plant, to be honest, and just wish there wasn’t such negative stigma surrounding it and all the stereotypes surrounding it.”

He added that dispensaries and related services contribute to the decriminalization of cannabis, by adhering to the guidelines set by the Cannabis Control Commission. A proposal was sent Thursday to the federal register, to make marijuana a ‘schedule three’ drug, rather than a schedule one. This would acknowledge the drug’s medical benefits at the federal level.

The plan does not legalize marijuana outright for recreational use.

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