Thank you for contacting me about the legalization of medical marijuana. I appreciate hearing your views on this important issue.
As you know, the State of California passed Proposition 215 in 1996, allowing for the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Nine other states also permit doctors to prescribe medical marijuana, including Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington State.
Well, somebody hasn’t updated their form letter since 2004. You forgot Michigan (2008), New Mexico (2007), and Rhode Island (2006).
The use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is a contentious issue, with conflicting evidence on both sides. Since coming to Congress, I have met with dozens of doctors, health care professionals, and law enforcement officials regarding this important issue. While some medical professionals believe marijuana offers therapeutic relief in certain cases, such claims remain unsupported by well-controlled clinical investigations. In fact, the American Medical Association, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the American Cancer Society reject the use of marijuana for medical purposes.
No, they reject the smoking of marijuana for medical purposes. And there are over 17,000 well-controlled clinical investigations showing marijuana’s medical efficacy.
I believe Congress should have an open, honest debate on stand-alone medical marijuana legislation, like H.R. 2835, which was introduced by Representative Barney Frank (D-MA). The American people, including the many patients suffering from debilitating diseases, deserve debate on a bill that will establish clear standards and guidance for law enforcement, doctors, health care providers, and prospective patients. Please know that I respect your point of view, will continue to study
this issue very carefully, and will keep your thoughts on this issue in mind.Sincerely,
Dennis A. Cardoza
Member of Congress
Like you say .They need to update.Seems alittle out of the loop.