Prominent advocate for cannabis reform intensifies push for legalization

Mick Palmer, a former senior police officer in Australia, is advocating for the regulation of cannabis and believes that it will be freely and legally available within five years. He has joined the board of the Pennington Institute, a prominent supporter of cannabis legalization, and is pushing for Victoria to be a testing ground for this campaign. Research released by the Institute shows that 54% of Victorians want more relaxed drug laws, while only 21% believe the current laws are effective. Palmer argues that the current system is not working, and there is significant public support for new legislation.

Palmer, who has been a police officer for 33 years and is now a barrister, emphasizes the ineffectiveness of the current cannabis laws. He suggests that continuing to arrest cannabis users is not the answer and calls for a better approach. Palmer draws a parallel to the past enforcement of laws against Aboriginal people drinking in the Northern Territory, labeling such laws as ineffective and harmful. He believes that regulating and legalizing cannabis is the way forward and is advocating for this change.

A bill sponsored by the Greens to legalize cannabis is already before the federal parliament, and there is openness from Victoria’s mental health minister for community consultation on the issue. Palmer sees Victoria as a potential location for a trial of regulated cannabis. He stresses that remaining stagnant on this issue is a failure and highlights the need for progress. Palmer envisions a carefully regulated system for cannabis access, with age restrictions in place to prevent access for children under a certain age.

In a podcast interview on Neil Mitchell Asks Why?, Palmer discusses the potential regulations for cannabis access, which may include age restrictions and the need for prescriptive advice for young users. He is joined by Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg, an adolescent psychologist who has voiced concerns about the risks of cannabis use. Palmer acknowledges the need for careful regulation to safeguard against potential harms associated with cannabis. He believes that a new approach to cannabis laws is necessary and that the time for change is overdue.

Palmer’s advocacy for cannabis regulation and legalization marks a significant shift in the ongoing debate around drug laws in Australia. His experience as a senior police officer lends credibility to his arguments for reform, and his involvement with the Pennington Institute signals a growing movement in support of changing cannabis legislation. The release of research showing public support for relaxed drug laws in Victoria further strengthens the case for reform. With increasing momentum behind the push for cannabis regulation, it is likely that the issue will continue to be a topic of conversation and debate in the coming years.