Back
2 MIN READ
Yesterday, West Virginia became the 29th state to legalize medical cannabis after Governor Jim Justice signed legislation to create a legal program in the state.
This is a major step forward for the cannabis industry as it shows that support for medical cannabis continues to grow. West Virginia’s program will allow patients suffering with terminal illnesses or any of 14 specified conditions access to cannabis.
Patients will not be able to smoke cannabis or consume edibles. They will only be able to obtain cannabis in the form of pills, oils, gels, creams, ointments, tinctures, liquids, and vaporizable extracts from state-regulated dispensaries.
Texas Committee Unanimously Passes Hemp Bill
Legislation that would let Texas farmers grow hemp passed unanimously after being discussed just over a week ago. The legislation was filed by Republican Representative Bill Zedler and aims to fix the state’s inconsistent program. Current laws allow for hemp products to be sold and consumed, but not grown.
In 1938, when Popular Mechanics said hemp was a billion-dollar product, they did not even know 20% of the uses associated with hemp. Today, industrial hemp is used in more than 25,000 products and several of these products are used by people every day. These include paper, clothing, building materials, fuel, and nutrition.
While it is impossible to quantify the newly discovered benefits of hemp, we do know that $1 billion in 1938 is worth a lot more today. Representative Zedler seems to agree with this view.
Representative Zedler said, “It ought to be something that we ought to be able to grow in Texas. This will provide an economic boon to the state.”
The legislation will now head to the Calendar Committee, where it will wait to be scheduled for a hearing by the full Texas House of Representatives.
Support has Never Been Stronger
Although the federal government still does not recognize any legitimate use for cannabis, support has never been stronger.
In February, a Quinnipiac Poll found that 93% of respondents support medical cannabis. Last month, a Marist Poll showed that 83% of respondents support medical cannabis.
Congress needs to take action and legalize medical cannabis at the Federal level. There is ample evidence supporting the medical benefits of cannabis and now, it is time for congress to act on this information and do what is right for the people!
All good -- no spamming here.
Comments