The COVID-19 pandemic has produced an alarming rise in drug abuse, violent crime, and other indicators of collective trauma. Sadly, many of my constituents feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods. And they have good reason. According to NOPD, carjackings are up 47 percent between 2021 and 2022. Homicides are also up more than 51 percent […]
In an exuberant Facebook post Sunday afternoon, candidate for mayor Leilani Heno said that favors directing the NOPD to focus on violent crime. I am 100% for freeing up our limited police officers from dealing with petty offenses so that they can focus on the serious violent crimes that are simply out of control and […]
Representative Candace Newell filed legislation HB 243 to decriminalize marijuana possession and distribution in Louisiana. Newell felt motivated to write this bill, Because I have seen the disparities in how people are treated in this state. Black and brown communities are treated far more harshly than others. Newell emphasized that the legislation would have a […]
A new study shows marijuana legalization has reduced all drug smuggling across the border.
The state of Louisiana has more for-profit prisons than any other state, which unsurprisingly brings one out of every 86 adults behind bars. Yes, medical marijuana policy is inciting positive change, but this change must move more quickly. People’s lives are at stake, specifically those in marginalized groups who already face oppression! Louisiana incarceration […]
Yesterday was a big victory for medical marijuana in Louisiana. The state Board of Medical Examiners voted 8-1 to increase statewide access to medical marijuana. One of the main ways in which they’re doing this is by eliminating the patient limit. There are only a dozen or so doctors approved to prescribe cannabis in the […]
In Colorado, money put in the “Marijuana Tax Cash Fund” is going towards low income housing plans, mental health support for incarcerated individuals, and health plans in schools. These accumulated funds are going towards incredibly worthwhile programs; many of which New Orleans desperately needs.
We live in Louisiana. We live in a state where there are no laws prohibiting workplace, in school, or housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Yes, we live in Louisiana, so no, marijuana is not legalized for recreational use at this time. But! Not all hope is lost.
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