Pubdate: Tue, 24 Jan 2012
Source: Lawrence Journal-World (KS)
Copyright: 2012 The Lawrence Journal-World
Contact:  http://www.ljworld.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1075
Author: Scott Rothschild

RALLY HELD IN SUPPORT OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA

TOPEKA -- About 25 people rallied Tuesday in support of a bill that 
would legalize marijuana for medical reasons.

Jason Selmon, chairman of the Kannabis Project, said he hoped the 
Legislature would vote on House Bill 2330, the Cannabis Compassion 
and Care Act.

"That's what Kansans deserve. Popular opinion is overwhelmingly in 
support for medical marijuana," Selmon said.

The measure would legalize marijuana use for people with debilitating 
conditions, such as cancer.

In addition, it would provide for the registration and operations of 
not-for-profit "compassion centers," which would have the authority 
to possess, cultivate, manufacture and dispense marijuana. Buyers 
would have to have a doctor's prescription and a license from the 
Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Sarah Smith of Lenexa said she has never used marijuana because it is 
illegal but would like to have it as an option to help with chronic 
ailments that she said are so painful she had to quit her job as a 
police officer.

Esau Freeman of Wichita said he wishes medical marijuana had been 
available for his mother, who he said died from side effects of a 
prescription drug.

"If the FDA can push a drug so dangerous ... they can pass something 
that is as safe and effective as aspirin," Freeman said.

Dennis Romero of Wichita said legalizing marijuana would reduce crime.

"Legalize it and take the bullets out of the guns of the cartels," he said.

Rep. Gail Finney, D-Wichita, who introduced the legislation said, 
"This is a first step. People want a fair and honest debate. We are 
tired of being ignored."

A reported 16 states have laws allowing for marijuana use for medical reasons.

The rally was held outside the Docking Office Building before an 
informational hearing on the bill before the House Health and Human 
Services Committee.

Committee Chairwoman Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, said she didn't 
expect the committee to vote on the proposal.

"No one on the committee has said this is a pressing issue," Landwehr said.

And Gov. Sam Brownback said he opposed efforts to legalize marijuana 
for medical use. He said the Legislature already has a full plate of issues.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom