Lawmakers in Virginia are taking the first step toward expanded use of medical marijuana.
Advocates for medical marijuana have tried and failed in Virginia year after year. A few years ago, they persuaded lawmakers to allow it for epilepsy. But that didn’t help Tamara Netzel. She is a teacher from Alexandria who suffers from multiple sclerosis.
She brought her story to lawmakers in powerful testimony this week. “Why? Why not for MS. When nothing else happens. And I never thought that I would be put in a position where in order to take care of my health I would have to break the law,” Netzel said.
She may not have to do that now that a House panel approved medical marijuana in Virginia. Jennifer Michelle Pedini of the Virginia Cannabis Group says people who need marijuana for medical reasons won’t need to move to Colorado.
“Now all Virginians will have the ability to stay here at home with their families, with their support networks and not be forced to move to another state in the middle of a healthcare crisis,” Pedini said.
Don’t expect dispensaries on every block, though. If approved, this bill would allow for CBD oil and THC-A oil, which are not intoxicating.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
By Michael Pope – WVTF
Photo Credit – David Goldman
