Stop California's Unscientific and Unnecessary Drugged Driving Law
Cal NORML Opposes Zero-Tolerance DUI Bill
March 20, 2012 - A bill to establish a "zero-tolerance" DUI standard for marijuana has been introduced to the legislature by Assemblywoman Norma Torres (D-Pomona). The bill, AB 2552, would make the presence in blood or urine of any non-zero amount of cannabinoids (the distinctive ingredients of marijuana) presumptive evidence of driving under the influence. Included would be not only synthetic cannabinoids but also non-psychoactive metabolites, which can reside in the system for weeks after last use.
Read CalNORML's letter to the Assembly Public Safety Committee on AB2552
California posted an impressive 11% decline in fatal auto accidents in 2010. This continues a strong downward trend that started in 2006. Fatalities are down 35% since then. The entire West Coast has experienced similar declines. Colorado also did well, posting a 6.5% in fatal accidents in 2010. As in California, this represents the lowest number of accidents since statistics began in 1994.
Driving, Worker Safety Not Affected by Legalization
July 27, 2010 - A a careful review of the scientific evidence shows that fears about marijuana’s impact on road safety are unwarranted. There is no good scientific evidence that drug testing improves workplace safety.
"Drug Test Results and Accident Risks" from Cal NORML Guide to Interpreting Drug Test Results (April 2009)
New Studies Confirm: Marijuana a Lesser Driving Hazard than Alcohol - Drug urine tests unjustified.
Review of accident studies shows marijuana not a major public highway safety hazard, refuting need for "zero-tolerance" DUI laws and bans on public use. Nonetheless, study shows marijuana use is linked to increased injury risk, confirming California NORML's advice to users.
Expert review of drug tests and per se "driving under the influence" limits.
