Marijuana Policy Project

Could it be that Iowa is poised on the verge of another nationally charged issue? First, same sex marriage is allowed; second, medical marijuana? As surprising as that may be for this conservative, Midwestern state, it is a real possibility.

Iowa Senator Joe Bolkcom (D-Iowa City) has introduced a bill (S.F. 2930 that would protect individuals from prosecution for use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Of course, there is opposition to this bill. I have heard arguments against (now all the pot-heads will be able to lie about health issues to procure it); ridiculous arguments for (legalize it, tax it and all of Iowa's budget problems would be solved); and compelling arguments (cancer patients wasting away that could have true relief from the pain, nausea, and weight loss).

The Iowa Board of Pharmacy will be holding public hearings to listen to the residents of Iowa on this important issue. This is a gigantic step forward in the process of changing thoughts toward this politically-charged issue. The only way the legislators in Iowa will see the light on this important issue is to hear from the people who would benefit from marijuana as a medicinal product.

There are individuals who are currently, illegally, benefiting from this treatment. They now live in fear of being exposed, but choose to take that chance to live a more reasonable life. They are not criminals, nor are they providing this illegal drug to others. They are simply using marijuana for treatment of symptoms.

Some of the benefits individuals can receive:

• Relief from nausea and increase of appetite (cancer, AIDS)
• Reduction of inner eye pressure (glaucoma)
• Relief of spasticity and spasms in muscles (multiple sclerosis)
• Chronic pain relief (variety of chronic illnesses)

Marijuana has also been used in conjunction with epilepsy, diabetes and many other conditions that create severe, chronic pain.

At this time, there are 13 states that allow the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes under a doctor's prescription. I believe it is time, once again, that Iowans lead the way.