You Have An Opportunity, Now What?

Recognition of medical marijuana use, and / or legalization of recreational marijuana

Hypothesis: Given the recent changes in regulation for medical and recreational uses of marijuana, users are entitled to a discrete event for usage. Currently, no provisions have been made for users to enjoy a discrete experience while indulging lawfully in public. The lack of acceptance of the changes in law, as well as the expedience with which some would contend the laws have changed, have not allowed the full embracing of this change, and thus, a slow incorporation into societal norms has occurred.

After conversations with more than five people, I have concluded there to be a present and immediate need for the ability of cannabis users to indulge in their activity discretely while in public. The cross section of those interviewed included both users, and nonusers, those who agree with recent changes in regulation, and those who do not. The issue that almost everyone agreed on is that users did not want to be labeled as selfish to air quality in ways cigarette smokers have been branded. This was noted as a primary reason social acceptance has lagged for the tobacco industry in many circles.  Not everyone agreed, however. There was a cross section who believed users should not be made to take into consideration someone else’s comfort when they have been given the legal rights to indulge. Separate of those outliers, most users preferred discretion when in public places. Public places included public streets, and other areas of high congestion. The preference was for anonymity and discretion was noted as paramount. Not introducing or forcing their interests/ lifestyles on others appeared primary. Those with this new problem include safety officials, users, nonusers, pets and others. How to not infringe on the rights of others all while satisfying legal rights are the concerns.