Iowans In Pain Tell Lawmakers What They Need
March 10, 2009
KCCI-TV8 (Des Moines, IA)
DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowans looking for relief from their constant pain told lawmakers on Tuesday that they want a bill to legalize medical marijuana.
The group assembled Tuesday at the Capitol to tell their stories.
"My days are ... a constant pain," said Lisa Jackson.
KCCI reporter Angie Hunt said it was hard for Jackson not to get emotional as she explained to lawmakers how the pain from fibromyalgia has changed her life.
"I used to work, I used to take care of my family. I used to have a life," said Jackson.
'Marijuana Would Help'
Members of the Senate subcommittee, considering the bill, heard similar stories from Iowans who said marijuana would improve their condition, unlike some prescription medications.
"Side effects from many prescription medications feel worse than the actual disease," said Ray Lakers.
He has multiple sclerosis and has used marijuana in the past and paid the price.
"I was actually arrested for less than a gram of marijuana back in 2005 and went to jail and did six days in county to get off probation over it," said Lakers.
Against Legalization
Few who attended the hearing were there to speak against the bill.
Stephen Erickson told lawmakers he can understand the benefits, but urged caution.
Could It Work Here?
"I understand that there is a benefit there, but understand that there's also a vast majority of the public out here that question how are you going to regulate it," said Erickson.
Retired Des Moines doctor Ed Hertko, speaking at the hearing, said that regulating the medical use of marijuana would not be a problem.
"I'm a strong believer that this drug is a good drug as long as it is used legally and is dispensed by a medical professional who writes a prescription for it," said Hertko.
Lawmakers said a bill legalizing medical marijuana would likely not pass this session. | 
