The Time is Now

Dear Representative, 

The time is now. We need to pass a comprehensive medical cannabis program here in Iowa. My name is Noelle Larson, and I am 19 years old. For the past four years (1,460 days), I have been in non-stop, widespread pain. I do not even remember what it is like to not be in pain. I'm tired of being denied a medicine that could potentially change my life in favor of medications that carry substantial risks like addiction, seizures, overdose, and death. Cannabis has been found to have no lethal dose, so why is this not an option in my treatment?

There are hundreds of thousands of Iowans that could benefit from a comprehensive cannabis program. Add just one caregiver to one of those people suffering, and a program like that could positively affect millions. Improved health would mean more time with spouses, kids, parents, and friends. It would mean more people being able to pursue an education and join the workforce. It would mean not having to rely on pharmaceuticals to get through the day, but a plant. 

78% of Iowans are in support of the legalization of medical cannabis, so what is holding you back? If 78% of your fellow legislatures in office supported a comprehensive medical cannabis program, this bill would have already been passed. Isn't that your job as a representative to represent what your people, your constituents want? 

Positive things are already happening in states where comprehensive medical cannabis programs are in effect. Opioid overdoses have dropped by up to 25%. Cannabis has been proven to prevent the tolerance to and withdrawal from opioids, and can even make a previously ineffective dose of opioids effective again. Some states like Michigan, Arizona, and Oregon have created substantial surpluses through medical cannabis programs.

Many patients reported using medical cannabis is favor of alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription drugs. When asked why, the patients cited less adverse side effects, better symptom management, and less withdrawal potential as reasons. 

We do not have time to wait for another bill to come around. Help the thousands of suffering Iowans now. Please vote YES to a comprehensive medical cannabis bill this week.