Thursday, February 12, 2015

One Deliberate Voice 2/12/2015



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.

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