Every year, a number of North Dakota residents suffer needlessly due to the lack of a common-sense medical marijuana policy in our state. I am a licensed social worker and vocal advocate for these unfortunate individuals, who lack access to this natural treatment option and may not have a voice in the medical marijuana debate.
If Herald readers were unaware of the recent attempt in North Dakota's 64th Legislative Assembly to adopt a comprehensive medical marijuana policy, they should look to HB 1430 for the precise language. For now, let me summarize the effort:
HB 1430 was a common-sense approach to providing access to medicinal marijuana to patients and caregivers. Furthermore, it established a robust administrative body to oversee and report on the successes and shortcomings of the new law.
It held those who may benefit from the medical use of marijuana harmless from state prosecution while providing stern penalties for those who may abuse the law in any way, shape or form.
I humbly beseech Herald readers to look into the efforts and remedies provided by the medical use of marijuana in the 23 states that have implemented such laws. The evidence is mounting that we, as compassionate and responsible citizens, should look to nature for treatments that large pharmaceutical companies cannot match. From the person battling cancer (and its treatments) to the child suffering with uncontrollable seizures, it's time we take action in North Dakota to ease the suffering of people in need.
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Medical marijuana may offer this relief and should be accessible in our state.
Once they've looked into the medical marijuana debate with an open heart and mind to discover the more than 700 ailments that are treated by a plant that grows naturally, would Herald readers consider supporting a similar bill during the 65th Legislative Assembly? I hope the answer is a resounding yes.
George Jirout
Mayville, N.D.
