National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) - Bias and Credibility

LEFT-CENTER BIAS

These media sources have a slight to moderate progressive/liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by using appeal to emotion or stereotypes) to favor progressive/liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information, but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.

Overall, we rate NORML as Left-Center biased based on its advocacy for marijuana legalization and reform, which aligns with progressive social policies. We also rate them as Mostly Factual in reporting due to their strong advocacy stance, which may introduce some bias in framing issues and prioritizing content.

Detailed Report

Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER
Factual Reporting: MOSTLY FACTUAL
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Organization/Foundation
Traffic/Popularity: Medium Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY

History

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, abbreviated as NORML, was established in 1970 by Keith Stroup. NORML advocates for marijuana law reform and legal access to cannabis while promoting responsible adult marijuana use. It focuses on shaping public opinion, challenging legal frameworks, and lobbying state and federal legislators. NORML is headquartered in Washington, DC, and operates a nationwide network of volunteer chapters. The current chair is Dan Viets, J.D., and notable board members include advocates for marijuana legalization, such as Bill Maher and Willie Nelson.

Read our profile on the United States government and media.

Funded by / Ownership

NORML is a nonprofit organization funded through donations, advertisements, Merch Sales, and sponsorships. The organization maintains transparency regarding its funding sources, relying on contributions to sustain its operations and advocacy efforts. It also receives support from its sister organization, The NORML Foundation, which conducts public advertising campaigns, provides legal assistance, and undertakes relevant research.

Analysis / Bias

NORML advocates for the legalization and reform of marijuana laws, focusing on the benefits of cannabis legalization and the injustices of current drug laws. Its content often highlights legislative developments, racial justice issues, and public opinion related to marijuana.

For example, in their report “Marijuana Pardons and Expungements: By the Numbers,” NORML details efforts to clear criminal records of individuals convicted of marijuana offenses. This report emphasizes the social benefits of such measures and cites various states’ efforts to automate the expungement process, leading to significant increases in expungements.

In a recent news article, “Louisiana: Governor Vetoes Bill Facilitating Expedited Pardons for First-Time Marijuana Offenders,” NORML discusses the implications of the governor’s veto and includes quotes from legal experts and advocates. This coverage aims to highlight the need for reform in marijuana laws and the negative impact of the veto on affected individuals.

Another example is the article “Maryland: Governor Issues Mass Pardons for Those With Misdemeanor Marijuana Convictions,” which reports on the governor’s decision to pardon individuals with minor marijuana offenses. The article emphasizes the positive social impact of this action and includes statements from government officials and affected individuals.

NORML frequently cites sources, such as the Washington Post ,BioMed Central (BMC), government reports, and legal documents, to support its articles and reports.

Failed Fact Checks

None in the Last 5 years. They are used as a resource by fact-checkers.

Overall, we rate NORML as Left-Center biased based on its advocacy for marijuana legalization and reform, which aligns with progressive social policies. We also rate them as Mostly Factual in reporting due to their strong advocacy stance, which may introduce some bias in framing issues and prioritizing content. (M. Huitsing 06/23/2024)

Source: https://norml.org/

Last Updated on June 23, 2024 by Media Bias Fact Check