With cannabis in every newspaper here in the UK, in the United States they are also in the midst of a cannabis debate. But one which comes from a different angle, and with not a single mention of "brain damage" or "psychosis" to be seen.
Mendocino county in California has long been seen as one of the most tolerant US states to have embraced the medical marijuana program. Sitting as it does on the temperate Pacific west coast of America the climate has proven ideal for the growing of cannabis both for recreational, and for medical use. This climate has seen marijuana quickly become California's most valuable cash-crop, said to be worth more financially, than other crops grown by the state's agricultural industry, such as corn, grapes and citrus fruits.
Afghani No1 from Sensi Seeds.
But things are set to change as Mendocino County tightens the laws which allow medical cannabis users to grow their own medicine.
Eight years ago, county residents approved a ballot initiative allowing pot for recreational as well as medical use. The measure allowed residents to have up to 25 plants apiece. Enough to get you a 1 year prison sentence here in the UK.
But some residents complained the 2000 vote encouraged large operators to move in. The newly passed "Measure B" repeals the 2000 law and adopts state guidelines on plant limits.
Opponents argue the measure will mainly make life more difficult for medical marijuana users.
Using marijuana for medical purposes has been legal in California since voters passed Proposition 215 in 1996, but it is banned by the federal government, which puts people in a difficult position.
The California Highway Patrol, who are tasked with dealing with the cannabis issue say "We don't care what the legislators decide. We will enforce those laws to the best of our ability, but someone needs to suggest a number of ounces of marijuana bud, and plants, a medical patient can possess, and we will Police those laws accordingly".
