Pubdate: Sun, 10 Apr 2016 Source: Des Moines Register (IA) Copyright: 2016 The Des Moines Register Contact: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/99999999/HELP/40507010 Website: http://desmoinesregister.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/123 Authors: Cam Sutton and Gary Kirke IOWA NEEDS COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CANNABIS LAW We applaud Gov. Terry Branstad for being open to the issue of medical cannabis [Branstad mulls medical cannabis expansion, April 5]. Over the past three years, thousands of Iowans have asked their lawmakers to pass this meaningful legislation to either get relief from a debilitating medical condition themselves or for a loved one. More than 90 of the state's most influential business leaders have signed a letter urging the Legislature to act. More than 4 of 5 Iowans support the passage of this legislation. And hundreds of local government leaders have lent their support to the cause. It is time for the Legislature to act. In the governor's weekly news conference on April 4, he stated that he is willing to work with the Legislature on this issue. The governor is a true statesman for taking this approach. Thank you, governor, for hearing the voices of Iowans on this issue and lending your support. It is time for Iowa to join the ranks of 23 other states who have compassion for the sick and suffering people in their states. It is time to pass a comprehensive medical cannabis law that will provide relief to thousands of Iowans. The people of Iowa are tired of waiting. - - Cam Sutton, Waukee, and Gary Kirke, West Des Moines - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom