California High: The Great Marijuana Debate

Gr 10 Up—Though this documentary focuses on California, the debate on legalizing recreational marijuana is national, making this program relevant across the country. The film clarifies that until there is national legislation permitting marijuana use, all those using the substance in states that have legalized the drug are still breaking federal law. In 10 chapters, this program covers both sides of the issue: medical use, the growth of the plant in hydroponic labs and in national forests, addiction, and the upcoming 2016 ballot issue for recreational use in California. Advocates on both sides of the issue weigh in on the pros and cons of legalization, including Allen St. Pierre, director of the National Organization of the Reform of Marijuana Laws; Paul Chabot, president of Coalition for a Drug Free California; law enforcement officials; specialists on addiction and recovery; and a doctor who prescribes cannabis. Facts, such as the 15 to 20 times increase in pot's potency during the past 20 years and the fast growth of medical marijuana stores in Los Angeles, are presented along with a tour of a collective showing what can be purchased and how it is packaged.