Tuesday, April 24, 2018

VA to study medical marijuana
The times they are a-changing. A group of Republicans and Democrats in the US House has introduced a bill that would clarify that the Department of Veterans Affairs has the authority to study medical marijuana and to initiate research. The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act makes clear the Veterans Administration can study the potential benefits. In a joint news release, lawmakers cited the opioid crisis and the growing demand among veterans organizations that want cannabis available as a treatment option for chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder and other medical issues that affect veterans. The American Legion, which has 2 million members, supports the bill and began advocating for marijuana research two years ago. The group says one in five veterans use marijuana to alleviate symptoms of a physical or a mental medical condition. The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act is being championed by the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, including its Chairman Rep. Phil Roe Republican of the First District. “As a physician, I am keenly aware of the need to look for opioid alternatives to treat patients’ chronic pain,” Roe said. “Since serving as chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I’ve heard from many veterans, both with physical and invisible wounds, who believe medical cannabis could benefit them.” If the VA approves the use of medical marijuana, it would, in essence, be de-criminalized in all states. Medical marijuana is currently legal in 30 states. 


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