Title:
Hawaii: Medical marijuana is a health, not safety, concern
Message:
On Friday afternoon, the House Finance Committee will hold a hearing on H.B. 688, H.D. 1. This bill seeks to move jurisdiction of the medical marijuana program from the Department of Public Safety to the Department of Health. The House Judiciary and Health Committees have already approved this bill. Please consider submitting testimony to the House Finance Committee by 5:00 p.m., TODAY, Thursday, February 21.
Medical marijuana is a matter of public health, not public safety. It only makes sense that professionals skilled in managing health related programs, like those employed by the health department, are charged with running a medical program. Currently, the Narcotics Enforcement Division (NED) of the Department of Public Safety oversees the medical marijuana program. This placement is not only antithetical to the legislative intent of the measure, but also to the stated mission of the NED as well. Please submit your comments in support of this move today!
This change has been a top legislative priority for medical marijuana patients, caregivers, and advocates for many legislative sessions, and there is a real chance that it can be accomplished this year. Please lend your help by submitting testimony in support of the proposal ASAP!
