Pubdate: Mon, 05 May 2014
Source: Des Moines Register (IA)
Copyright: 2014 The Des Moines Register
Contact: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/99999999/HELP/40507010
Website: http://desmoinesregister.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/123
Author: Jason Noble

TERRY BRANSTAD TO GIVE MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL "SERIOUS CONSIDERATION"

Gov. Terry Branstad will give "serious consideration" to legislation
passed by the Iowa Legislature last week allowing the use of
marijuana-derived oil for the treatment of severe epilepsy.

"We have to look at the public policy considerations of this, and
that's the reason why I want to reserve judgment until I see it in its
final form before making a final decision," Branstad said.

Lawmakers came together early last Thursday morning to pass the bill,
which will allow epilepsy patients and their caregivers to possess and
use cannabidiol oil if they receive a recommendation from a doctor and
a license from the state.

The families will have to purchase the substance outside of Iowa and
transport it back to the state.

As governor, Branstad must sign the bill for it to become
law.

Branstad, a Republican, repeated a previous concern that allowing any
form of marijuana might have "unintended consequences," and said his
review would focus heavily on making sure there was no potential for
such consequences.

The governor said he was heartened to know there was a sunset -- that
is, an expiration date -- in the bill, so that it will go away if it's
proven to be ineffective or problematic.
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MAP posted-by: Matt