Regan Lauds Bipartisan Passage of Medical Cannabis Legislation
HARRISBURG – Following a lengthy effort and cooperation among many individuals and groups, the House this week passed legislation that would, if enacted, allow physicians to prescribe medical cannabis for patients suffering from debilitating diseases, said Rep. Mike Regan (R-York/Cumberland).
“I am so grateful for the large amount of support that came from Republicans and Democrats alike that resulted in passage of this legislation,” said Regan. “On the House floor, I said that we have a moral obligation to help those children and adults who are suffering greatly and who would be helped by this doctor-recommended medicine. That is the key point: This is medicine, not the legalization of cannabis for recreational purposes, let’s be clear about that. The aim is to bring relief and hope to our citizens who are in pain from various maladies.”
Regan said this legislation is the culmination of a long-term House effort that stems back to the 2013-14 session. He introduced his own proposal,
House Bill 35, and then joined in support of
House Bill 1432. Senate Bill 3 was the result of work done by a task force created to investigate the issue and recommend ways to strengthen the measure.
Senate Bill 3, which passed 152-38, would create the State Board of Medical Cannabis Licensing, an experimental panel, to oversee the dispensing of the medicine. Only physicians would be able to recommend this medicine.
“The fact that this legislation has been thoroughly vetted by a bipartisan working group of lawmakers, including myself, proves that this is not just a ‘shot in the dark,’ but a carefully crafted bill,” said Regan. The final report of the group contained eight findings ranging from a licensing authority to a list of ailments that would be eligible for a medical marijuana recommendation.”
Since the bill was amended in the House, it now goes back to the Senate for further consideration.
To see Regan’s remarks during the final passage debate, visit his website at
RepMikeRegan.com.
Representative Mike Regan
92nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Raymond Smith
717.705.1834
rsmith@pahousegop.com
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