Pubdate: Wed, 01 Feb 2012
Source: Lawrence Journal-World (KS)
Copyright: 2012 The Lawrence Journal-World
Contact:  http://www.ljworld.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1075
Author: Chris Hong

LEGISLATORS SHOW LITTLE INTEREST IN BILL LEGALIZING MEDICAL USE OF MARIJUANA

Topeka -- Even though a bill legalizing the medical use of marijuana 
is now in both sides of the Kansas Legislature, officials have shown 
little interest in making it a law.

Sen. David Haley, D-Kansas City, introduced Senate Bill 354, the 
Cannabis Compassion and Care Act, during Monday's session. It was 
referred to the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, where it 
will likely sit without a hearing.

"I have no interest on hearing the bill," said Sen. Vicki Schmidt, 
R-Topeka, who leads the committee.

The bill would allow qualified patients with certain medical 
conditions, such as cancer, glaucoma and AIDS, to buy marijuana from 
registered "compassion centers."

"Marijuana has been used by many people already," Haley said. "It's 
been a relief to those with a myriad of illnesses."

Rep. Gail Finney, D-Wichita, introduced the same bill in the House 
last February.

The Health and Human Services committee, responsible for hearing the 
House bill, held an informational meeting on the issue last Tuesday.

Committee Chairwoman Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, said she didn't 
expect the committee to act on the bill either.

Haley said he is pushing to have an official hearing, even if 
committee members are opposed to it.

"Let's hear the pros and cons," Haley said. "For those who oppose it, 
let them come forward."

Gov. Sam Brownback has said he opposes the medicinal use of marijuana.

According to the bill, 15 other states allow the medicinal use of the 
drug, including Colorado and Michigan.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom