Many major regional news outlets in the 18 states where marijuana is fully legalized are now packed with upbeat lifestyle articles extolling the virtues of a once-underground cannabis culture.
A leading California newspaper recently offered guidance on how to enjoy Disneyland while high; the Space Mountain roller coaster was a particular favorite.
The drive to decriminalize cannabis was fueled by one compelling, undeniable fact: Far too many people were crowding jails and prisons on often-minor marijuana charges or convictions.
In fact, websites for law firms specializing in DUI arrests — which now enjoy an influx of brand new, non-alcohol-related clients — carefully explain how these blurred lines may offer a way out of legal trouble.
According to one report, 80 to 90 percent of marijuana sales in California fall into a “legal gray zone.” The state legislature even authorized a $100 million plan last year to bolster “struggling” sanctioned cannabis businesses.
Although feature sections often highlight cocktail recipes and trendy bars, it’s unlikely readers will find tips about how much more fun Disneyland is after two or three whiskey sours.
Their reviewers, critics and lifestyle writers need to be seen as hip, with their fingers firmly placed on the edgiest pulse of popular culture.
Again, there are important positive aspects to the legalization of marijuana — especially in the area of criminal justice.
Joe Ferullo is an award-winning media executive, producer and journalist and former executive vice president of programming for CBS Television Distribution.