One Deliberate Voice
2/12/2015
The political system works best when groups are
talking with one voice. These voices are best delivered in a positive way that
encourages dialog. As frustrating as the current situation is, it remains essential
to be positive when communicating with Olympia. it is very important the MMJ
community speak with one thoughtful and deliberate voice. Here are some places
to start. Pick one that interest you the most, write a couple notes and call
with the intent to discuss your topic. Many voices saying the same things are
way louder than a couple voices screaming and yelling.
Talking Points
Starting point
·
Accessing needed
medication, including medical cannabis, is essential for all Washingtonians.
·
Medical cannabis patients
seek regulation for dispensaries.
·
We want full implementation of the medical
cannabis bill originally passed in 2011, but largely vetoed by then-Governor
Christine Gregoire.
·
As one of the first states to legalize medical
and recreational cannabis, Washington is poised to model a working regulatory
system for other states.
Discussion starters
·
Under the current law,
recreational cannabis users are protected from arrest, but cannabis patients
only have an affirmative defense in court. We want to remove existing barriers
for patients going forward.
·
Medical cannabis is an
effective alternative to opioid pain medications and other pharmaceuticals,
which can often lead to addiction and other health issues, including death.
Medical Benefits of Cannabis
·
Cannabis provides effective pain control for a
number of common medical conditions, including cancer and nausea from
chemotherapy, chronic pain from rare or undiagnosed illnesses, glaucoma,
multiple sclerosis, seizures and wasting disorders.
·
Promising new research also shows benefits in the
treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
disease as well as traumatic brain injuries.
·
More research and training
on medical cannabis is highly desired by the patient community, physicians, and
scientists. As a trailblazer in medical innovation, Washington state should be
leading the way when it comes to therapeutic use and research of cannabis.
Economic Impact of Medical Cannabis
·
There are an estimated 500 medical cannabis
businesses in the state. If Washington moves ahead with licensing and
regulation of medical cannabis providers, the state will generate revenue
through licensing, product development, and job creation.
·
The Department of Revenue
collected $14 million from medical collectives in FY2014, including Business
and Occupation taxes, despite remaining uncertainty about applicability of
sales tax.
·
Licensing medical and recreational businesses
will differentiate them from unlicensed storefronts and black market sellers
while providing revenue to the state and medicine to patients who need it.
