A bill that removes many restrictions on who can be prescribed medical marijuana is nearing final legislative passage. New Iberia Senator Fred Mills says the treatment has helped many, including former Governor Kathleen Blanco. Mills says Blanco’s daughter said the medical cannabis gave her mom a few more good days before she died.
“She said she’s eating, she’s up and around, we playing cards tonight and we got mom back for a little while,” said Mills.
On a 28-to-six vote, the Senate approved the measure that would allow a state-licensed doctor to recommend the treatment for any debilitating health conditions. Mills assured the Senate this was not an effort to legalize recreational marijuana.
“This is a separate issue totally, it’s strictly a medicinal issue,” said Mills.
Under current law, cannabis can only be used to treat a specific list of diseases or disorders that includes cancer, seizures, Parkinson’s, and PTSD. Mills says this legislation removes those restrictions.
“If you have a debilitating disease you should have an opportunity to be able to get medical marijuana in Lousiana from a physician who will be able to recommend it to you,” said Mills.
Before the bill goes to the governor’s desk, the House will need to approve Senate changes to the measure.
Comments