Quinnipiac Poll Suggests Medical Cannabis is a “No Brainer” in NY
? Ryan Allway ?? May 23rd, 2014
? Cannabis Laws & Regulations
The majority of voters in New York believe that medical cannabis should be decriminalized, according to the latest Quinnipiac University poll released on May 23, 2014. Between May 14th and 19th, the university surveyed 1,129 New York State voters with a margin of error of +/- 2.9% via live phone calls. The researchers reached some interesting conclusions that could warrant a significant shift in policy.
New York State represents one of the most compelling demographics for legalization, with 83% support for medical marijuana and 15% opposed. About 62% of respondents were also in favor of having a medical marijuana dispensary in the town or city where they lived. These dispensaries have previously been a hot button issue with many concerned about potential rising crime rates in the vicinity.
Compared to alcohol, 60% of respondents indicated the marijuana is less harmful to personal health versus just 15% saying marijuana was more harmful. More than half of respondents also indicated the alcohol is more harmful to society, with 26% saying marijuana is more harmful and 14% calling them equal. These comparisons suggest a more relaxed sentiment for both medical and recreational marijuana.
New York’s Senate Health Committee voted earlier this week to approve the Compassionate Care Act to legalize medical marijuana in the state after passing the Assembly four times previously. Interestingly, voters are split on how well Governor Andrew Cuomo is handling marijuana policy, with 35% approving, 34% disapproving, and 33% having no opinion either way.
So far, 21 U.S. states and Washington D.C. have legalized medical marijuana with support from more than 60 U.S. and international health organizations supporting immediate access to medical marijuana under a physician’s supervision. With broad support in states like New York, these figures could significantly expand over the coming years and ultimately drive a cohesive nationwide policy.
