Medical Pot Clears Another Senate Panel
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP/WCCO) — One more Minnesota Senate panel has approved legislation that would legalize medical marijuana.
The Senate Judiciary Committee gave the OK Wednesday despite opposition from law enforcement including Public Safety Commissioner Mona Dohman. They raised concerns about increased illicit use of marijuana intended for medical use.
Supporters testified that medical marijuana can help ease diseases such as muscular dystrophy and epilepsy.
"This week has been a breath of fresh air for seriously ill Minnesotans who would benefit from legal access to medical marijuana," said Heather Azzi, political director for Minnesotans for Compassionate Care. "We knew this legislation would enjoy broad support once it received the consideration it deserves. The rate at which it is advancing finally reflects its urgency."
It's the fourth Senate panel to advance the measure since last week, and moves to the Finance Committee next. But the bill is stalled in the House.
Senate fiscal analyst Chris Turner said the bill would have a minimal impact on court activity.
(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
