That law expired in 1987, and since then, marijuana has been illegal under all circumstances. California currently has the most liberal laws regarding medical marijuana usage. Proposition 215, which was passed by voters in 1996, allows marijuana to be used in some instances. However, patients smoking marijuana must have a note from their physician detailing their circumstances. Immediate effects of marijuana are changes in perception of speed, time and distance.
Users also experience prolonged reaction time and impaired judgment.
A common misconception is that smoking marijuana does not harm the lungs. Cannabis dependence is marked by increased chemical tolerance, chronic lethargy and psychiatric difficulties such as anxiety and mood disorders, Strobbe said. Users who break off use of marijuana experience withdrawal symptoms, which range from changes in mood to sleep disturbances. One can't generate long term memory. These negative effects go beyond remembering trivial information, to severely affecting learning and everyday functioning.