Congress pushes formal VA study on medical marijuana
March 03, 2019
Members of Congress have introduced legislation that could push Veteran’s Affairs-conducted research on medical marijuana to treat ailments that commonly affect veterans, like post traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain.
The VA has been hesitant to formally study how cannabis could treat these conditions. Officials from the organization claim that the federal classification of marijuana as a controlled substance prevents this. Critics say otherwise and claim the VA has other reasons for actively avoiding the research.
The proposed legislation would remove limits, both real and perceived, on research and allow a full formal study. It is a bipartisan effort with Representatives Lou Correa, D-CA and Clay Higgins, R-LA introducing it together. There is companion legislation currently proposed in the Senate, also with bipartisan support. Members of the House Veteran’s Affairs Committee will debate the proposed measures this year.
Medical marijuana has long been of interest as it could potentially treat a number of conditions often suffered by veterans. With the opioid crisis currently taking lives all over the country, it is especially promising as a safer option for the management of chronic pain.
The bills have gotten a lot of support from veteran’s interest groups. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) has publicly endorsed the potential study. IAVA Legislative Director Tom Porter said in a statement, “Our members have spoken loud and clear on this issue. In our latest member survey, 63 percent supported and only 15 percent opposed legalization for the medical use of cannabis. This bill takes a giant and necessary step forward to determine the safety and efficacy of medicinal cannabis.”