California's Humboldt State University launches marijuana institute

California's Humboldt State University announced recently it would form a new institute that combines experts from the fields of economics, psychology, sociology, politics, geography, social work and public policy to help better inform the nation's ongoing debate on marijuana reform.

The school, which is accredited and funded by taxpayer dollars, said it would begin offering lectures on marijuana policies as soon as Tuesday evening. At least 11 faculty members are also onboard, according to the institute's website.

Humboldt's Institute for Interdisciplinary Marijuana Research is thought to be the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Students will also be able to take classes at the institute and earn credits toward their degree. However, the school will not be teaching cultivation techniques.

The institute says it aims to supply the public and policy-makers with scientific facts about marijuana, economic wisdom on the effects of regulation, and accurate, informed policy analysis for voters considering ballot-based reforms. Along the way, the institute hopes to position itself as a "clearinghouse of marijuana related research."

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