“While we welcome any easing of federal policies that target and discriminate against cannabis consumers, this particular policy shift appears to be largely opportunistic and not in any way reflective of a broader shift in the federal government’s stance toward those who consume marijuana responsibly.”
It’s high time we end this cruel prohibition.
“Individuals reported improvements in overall PTSD symptom severity 30 and 70 days after initiating MMJ [medical marijuana] … Moreover, they reported reductions in negative affect and improvements in overall well-being. These findings suggest that MMJ use may be associated with clinical benefits in people with PTSD.”
The legislation provides a temporary five-year “safe harbor” in which veterans will not be punished for state-legal cannabis use and VA doctors will be able to officially recommend medical cannabis in accordance with state laws. The VA would also be mandated to study the potential benefits of cannabis for veterans to treat pain, PTSD, and other conditions.
It is time for Gov. Carney to acknowledge and support the majority of Delawareans who back cannabis legalization in the First State.
Recently conducted observational trials in Israel and the United Kingdom have documented improved symptoms following the use of cannabis products among patients with post-traumatic stress. These outcomes include statistically significant changes in sleep quality and in anxiety, fewer nightmares, and improved quality of life.
The vote marks the seventh time that House members have advanced this language to the Senate as either an amendment or as a stand-alone bill.
Presently, V.A. doctors are forbidden from providing the paperwork necessary to complete a recommendation, thus forcing military veterans to seek the advice of a private, out-of-network physician.