HB 5389 - An Act Concerning the Palliative Use of Marijuana

For Immediate Release
Contact: Erik Williams (860) 805-3243

Hartford: Early this morning, following a debate that began at 4:30 PM yesterday, the Connecticut Senate joined the House of Representatives in passing HB 5389, clearing the way for Governor Dannel Malloy to sign the bill into law. Connecticut will join sixteen (16) other states that allow for the compassionate use of medical marijuana with eleven (11) other states currently considering the measure.

"Today is a day of hope, compassion and dignity and I thank all of the legislators who worked hard on this legislation and who voted to pass this bill," said Erik Williams, Executive Director of CT NORML. "I am so happy for all the patients who will have another medicinal option to discuss with their doctor and for all of those currently suffering with debilitating conditions who will no longer suffer the indignity of being sick and a criminal."

The hard work of CT NORML has resulted in tens of thousands of phone calls, emails, patient and legislator meetings, and letters to legislators. "Patients and doctors told their stories and asked legislators to tell them 'No, you haven't suffered enough,'" said Williams. "Many others stressed that this bill did medical marijuana the correct way and that Connecticut had an opportunity to be a leader in America on this issue. Our strategy and dedication has obviously paid off."

In addition to CT NORML, SSDP, A Better Way Foundation, ACLU, and LEAP all actively worked to help pass the bill.

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Erik Williams
Executive Director, CT NORML
ewilliams@campaignswon.com
860-805-3243