Marijuana Law, Policy, and Authority

Abstract

This is the introductory Chapter from my textbook, Marijuana Law, Policy, and Authority. This-first-of its kind textbook is designed to guide instructors, students, and practitioners alike through the competing approaches to regulating marijuana, the policies behind those approaches, and the power of various federal, state, and local government actors to pursue them. The introductory Chapter explains why marijuana law and policy has become such a fascinating and worthwhile area of study, even for people who never intend to work/practice in this field. It also provides more details about the content and features of the book and how it can be used in the classroom or as a desk reference.

Keywords: Cannabis; Marijuana; Marihuana; Policy; Legalization; Prohibition; Legalize; Prohibit; Federalism; Localism; Drug; Controlled Substance; Reform; Casebook; Textbook