News that a majority of Wisconsinites feel that the state is losing its best and brightest is no surprise in light of the failure of state lawmakers to pass a medical marijuana bill this year, "Poll finds 'brain drain' a statewide concern" (Page 1B, Aug. 29).
The failure to pass medical marijuana has fueled an exodus of people and their assets out of our state. Those with the ways and means are leaving for states as close as Michigan where medical marijuana is legal under state law.
Also departing are young people and others who want to work in the thriving medical cannabis industry in the 14 states and Washington, D.C., where it is now legal.
Wisconsin can no longer afford to listen to the special interests whose job security lies in denying medical marijuana to our veterans, seniors, our sick, disabled and dying. State residents are missing out on both medicine and jobs because we keep electing fossils with no new ideas and zero political courage.
The only way to stop the brain drain is to vote out those who want to keep us living both in the past, and for all too many, living in severe pain, when we go to the polls this fall.
MADISON: Tuesday Sept. 14 is Wisconsin’s Fall 2010 partisan primary election. Unlike the Nov. 2 general election, voters are limited to voting for candidates within a single party. The winners of contested primaries represent their parties on the Nov. 2 ballots. Sometimes it can be politically strategic to vote outside one's usual party choice.
The following is a look at some key primary contests. Because of length I will be publishing it in 2 parts. This information is by no means complete with so the many candidates and races. Reader input on candidates is appreciated.
Madison NORML Examiner: River Falls City Attorney reviewing MMJ Advisory Referendum signatures
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, August 28, 2010
More info on the River Falls Advisory Referendum.
River Falls City Attorney reviewing MMJ Advisory Referendum signatures
MADISON: The River Falls Journal is reporting that City Clerk Lu Ann Hecht confirmed she had received the petition several days prior to the 60-day deadline and that it had the more than the required number of signatures.
The Journal says Hecht has forwarded the petition to the city attorney for interpretation who will determine if it warrants a direct-legislation referendum or an advisory referendum. Next, the City Council will decide whether to add the question to the ballot or not. Referendum campaign organizer Robert Hughes is a River Falls City Council member.
Madison NORML Examiner: River Falls Wisconsin medical marijuana advisory referendum backers file signatures
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Good news as it appears the NW Wisconsin city of River Falls will be joining Dane County in holding an advisory referendum on medical cannabis this Nov. 2!
MADISON: A River Falls alderman who has been coordinating a campaign to gather enough signatures to place a medical marijuana advisory referendum before City voters this Nov. 2 reports they have enough signatures to make the ballot.
Madison NORML Examiner: Alleged cartel pot grows in Northern WI just another sign prohibition only makes things worse
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Below is my latest essay for Madison NORML Examiner!
Alleged cartel pot grows in Northern WI just another sign prohibition only makes things worse
August 21st, 2010 12:44 am
MADISON: Law enforcement and news sources have linked last weeks 200-officer raid on more than ten marijuana grows on public lands in NE Wisconsin to Mexican drug cartels. Meanwhile, before the dust from what TIME called a “pot megafarm” had settled, another national forest grow was located. Marinette County Sheriffs reported deputies found more than 3,000 plants on another grow on Aug. 17.
In Mexico, with over 28,000 already dead in cartel related violence triggered by drug prohibition, President Felipe Calderon has now proposed a debate on the legalization of drugs. Calderon's predecessor, Vicente Fox, declared that since prohibition strategies had failed, Mexico should consider legalizing "the production, sale and distribution of drugs."
Madison NORML Examiner: Ten things that would be different had Wisconsin passed a medical marijuana law
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, August 18, 2019
Below is my 80th Madison NORML Examiner article<. When I started writing them last November, I never expected it to be a regular thing. But, it's been a good venue to get out information, both new and historical, on cannabis and WI.
Ten things that would be different had Wisconsin passed a medical marijuana law
* August 18th, 2010 12:12 pm
Madison NORML Examiner
Photo: Gary Storck
MADISON: A year ago, it seemed like nothing could stop Wisconsin from being the next medical marijuana state. A state of the art bill was being written. The bill had the support of the Governor and powerful leaders in both houses.
Despite all this, a lack of political courage and political will left the JRMMA in the legislative dustbin once again, crushing the hope that had been given back to long suffering state patients and families.
Below is a list of 10 things that would be different in Wisconsin had the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (AB554/SB368) passed this session.
One: Jacki Rickert and thousands of WI patients would have their medicine
Jacki Rickert, namesake of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, would finally get a big YES to the question she has been asking for so many years, “Is My Nedicine Legal YET?”. Jacki, who was approved for federal medical marijuana supplies in Dec. 1990 but never supplied, was counting on state lawmakers to make good on a lifetime of broken promises from everyone from Bill Clinton on down. Not only Jacki, but thousands and thousands of Wisconsin’s most vulnerable, most hurting citizens would finally have safe and legal access to cannabis. Many would be getting it for the first time because they could not or would not access the cannabis black market. The people affected, seniors, veterans, disabled people, terminally ill, chronically ill, all have families and friends would all feel better knowing their friends and loved ones burdens and struggles had been eased.
Sun Prairie Star Online: County pot vote set: Advisory reefer-endum scheduled for November
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, July 15, 2010
Two weeks Sun Prairie Online had a nasty OPED stating the Dane County referendum was about "left wing pot heads". Upon the unanimous vote by the board on July 15, a more balanced article came next.
7/21/2010 11:34:00 AM
Source: Sun Prairie Online County pot vote set: Advisory reefer-endum scheduled for November
Rachel Wittrock
Regional Reporter
The Dane County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution July 15 to put a referendum on the November ballot asking Dane County voters if they would support legalizing marijuana for medicinal purposes.
The referendum that will be on the November 2010 election ballot reads:
“Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
The proposed referendum was introduced to the board at the June 17 meeting last month. District 6 Supervisor John Hendrick is the primary sponsor of the resolution. Hendrick was supported by 12 County Board members going into June meeting, including District 2 Supervisor Barbara Vedder; District 4 Supervisor Brett Hulsey; District 5 Supervisor Analiese Eicher; District 11 Supervisor Al Matano; District 13 Supervisor Chuck Erickson; District 14 Supervisor Melanie Hampton; District 17 Supervisor Tom Stoebig; District 29 Supervisor Dave Ripp; District 31 Supervisor Gerald Jensen; District 34 Supervisor Patrick Miles; District 36 Supervisor Cynda Solberg and District 37 Supervisor Bob Salov.
District 28 Supervisor Kurt Schlicht, whose mother died of pancreatic cancer, used marijuana to help cope with her illness.
“I’m against using drugs to get intoxicated, but I watched my mother die,” Schlicht said. “She was a registered nurse, and the marijuana she used - illegally - gave her an appetite and a little energy. It probably sustained her life for a few more weeks.”
A number of community members showed up to voice their support for the medical marijuana resolution, including Jason Glaspie, who chooses to use marijuana to ease his cancer symptoms.
“I don’t know of a single person who wouldn’t choose something that could help them over obeying the law,” Glaspie said. “It’s an unfair choice to ask them. I feel that you should be able to ask the general population about how they feel about that [medical marijuana] and whether it’s something they want to consider. People have a right to be asked the question directly."
Gary Storck is another resident that spoke on behalf of medical marijuana. Storck, who is affiliated with the group Is My Medicine Legal Yet?, was born with health issues, including glaucoma and heart problems. He credited cannabis with saving his eyesight.
“Placing the referendum before voters will also provide comfort and demonstrate that the county stands behind people in pain,” Storck said. “So many say this issue belongs before the state legislature rather than the County Board, but it is a local issue. This is about freedom of choice, quality of life and living one’s life with dignity.”
Charles Wachtel showed up to speak for Wisconsin Veterans for Medical Marijuana Awareness. Wachtel said a 2008 study by the Rand Corporation showed two out of five Afghanistan or Iraqi war veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or severe depression.
Wachtel said in 1988, Francis L. Young, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Chief Administrative Law Judge, was quoted as saying “marijuana, in its natural form, is one of the safest therapeutically active substances known to man.”
District 32 Supervisor Mike Willett said when the issue of medical marijuana first came before the board, he felt it was not a Dane County issue, but he found himself changing his mind the more he thought about the issue.
“It is getting the question out to the people,” Willett said. “The idea of this being a referendum is what I am supporting. It is asking the people, and the more time we can ask our citizens what it is they want.”
Dane County Board minutes on Advisory Referendum passage on July 15, 2010
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Below is a copy of the minutes from the Dane County Board meeting on July 15, 2010 where the Board voted unanimously to place a medical marijuana advisory referendum on the Nov. 2, 2010 general election ballot in Dane County.
RES. 70, 10-11
REFERENDUM ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA
Current law prohibits the manufacture, distribution, and delivery of marijuana and the possession of marijuana with intent to manufacture, distribute, or deliver it. Additionally, current law prohibits a person from possessing or attempting to possess marijuana. Depending on the amount of marijuana involved, an individual may face fines and potential imprisonment for violating the law.
During the 2009 Wisconsin legislative session, two bills were introduced to establish a medical necessity defense to marijuana-related prosecutions and fines. Assembly Bill 554 (AB 554) and Senate Bill 368 (SB 368) would have allowed a person having or undergoing a debilitating medical condition or treatment to invoke this defense. The bills would have allowed a qualifying patient to invoke this defense if he or she acquires, possesses, cultivates, transports, or uses marijuana to alleviate the symptoms or effects of his or her debilitating medical condition or treatment, but only if no more than the maximum authorized amount of marijuana is involved. Finally, the bills required the Department of Human Services to establish a registry for medical users of marijuana as well as to license and regulate nonprofit corporations that distribute or deliver marijuana to facilitate it’s use. The bills failed because the legislative session ended before they could be considered.
Fourteen states across the country have enacted laws that legalized medical marijuana, including Alaska, California, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, Oregon, and Washington. The Wisconsin legislation would have changed state law regarding marijuana, but would not have affected federal law which prohibits persons from manufacturing, delivering, or possessing marijuana.
There are individuals suffering from serious illnesses who desperately need cannabis to manage their symptoms and they cannot find legal relief in Wisconsin. To further the public debate on whether the State of Wisconsin should allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes, Dane County voters should have the opportunity to voice their opinion via a referendum.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Dane County Board of Supervisors places the following advisory referendum on the ballot for the November 2010 election:
"Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Dane County Clerk shall take all necessary steps to implement this resolution.
Mikel Glaspie of Fitchburg representing Madison Norml spoke in support.
Charles Wachtel of Oregon representing Madison Norml VMMA spoke in support.
Gary Storck of Madison representing Madison Norml spoke in support.
Kyle Gunn of Madison spoke in support.
David Clark of Edgerton registered in support.
Joe Sokolinsky of Madison registered in support.
Executive Committee recommended adoption of Res. 70. Motion carried unanimously.
Wisconsin State Journal: County residents will get to vote on medical marijuana
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The State Journal weighs in with some coverage of the referendum. Why though, does the opinion of the Wisconsin Medical Society Lobbying Group need to be a part of every article about mmj in WI? Not only is it unscientific and incorrect, but also a doctors group advocating criminalization of patients is nothing short of barbaric.
Source: Wisconsin State Journal
Published, Tuesday, July 20, 2010
DEVIN ROSE | 608-252-6143 | drose@madison.com | Posted: Tuesday, July 20, 2010 3:15 am
An advisory referendum will ask Dane County voters in November whether they think the state should legalize medical marijuana after the County Board voted unanimously to place it on ballots.
The move made the county the state’s first to introduce a medical marijuana resolution. The question would ask: “Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?”
Sup. John Hendrick of Madison, who introduced the resolution on Thursday, said he was surprised at the board’s unanimous vote but wouldn’t be surprised if the referendum passed by a 70-30 margin or better.
Hendrick said he personally supports the legalization of medical marijuana because he has known people with disabling conditions who have benefited from it. He added he’s aware that some people believe the law is being abused in the 14 states and the District of Columbia, where pot is legally distributed.
“I guess that’s a chance I’m willing to take,” Hendrick said.
Sup. Eileen Bruskewitz of Waunakee said she originally planned to vote against the resolution but changed her vote because a referendum would allow people to have a say. Sup. Mike Willett of Verona said he is “often one that doesn’t vote with the crowd,” but he also changed his mind, for the same reason.
“We’re overjoyed at the fact it was a unanimous vote,” said Gary Storck, president of the state chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.
Storck said it’s no longer acceptable to keep people in Wisconsin suffering, as demonstrated by the veterans who testified at the meeting.
A 1992 attempt in the Madison City Council to get a similar referendum on the ballot was not successful. Several current aldermen and former Madison mayor Sue Bauman said they couldn’t recall any resolutions introduced in recent years, though Bauman said she discussed it with activists.
Paul Armentano: Science is clear; why aren't we paying attention?
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, July 18, 2010
The article below, by NORML's Paul Armentano, completely refutes, debunks and all but pulverizes the position of the Wisconsin Medical Society against medical cannabis, as expressed by their lobbyists Mr. Dr. Michael M. Miller MD FASAM and Mark Grapentine.
The Record Searchlight’s call for further scientific study on the safety and efficacy of marijuana (editorial, Tuesday) as a medicine is commendable, but hardly goes far enough. The real challenge is demanding that pundits, politicians, and the media actually pay attention to the research that is presently available.
For example, in February investigators from the University of California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research publicly announced the findings of a series of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials on the medical utility of inhaled cannabis. The studies, which for the first time in over two decades utilized the standardized FDA clinical trail design, concluded that marijuana ought to be a “first line treatment” for patients with neuropathy and other serious illnesses.
Among the numerous studies conducted by the center, four assessed smoked marijuana’s ability to alleviate neuropathic pain, a notoriously difficult to treat type of nerve-pain associated with cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, spinal cord injury, and many other debilitating conditions. Each of the trials found that cannabis consistently reduced patients’ pain levels to a degree that was as good or better than currently available medications.
Another study conducted by the center’s investigators assessed the use of marijuana as a treatment for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. That study determined that “smoked cannabis was superior to placebo in reducing spasticity and pain in patients with MS, and provided some benefit beyond currently prescribed treatments.”
Yet another clinical trial challenged the long-held myth that smoking cannabis damages the immune system. Researchers found that, contrary to popular opinion, inhaled marijuana fails to suppress human immune function. “There was no evidence of acute impairment of immune function,” investigators reported.
Around the globe similarly controlled trials are also taking place. Most recently, a review by researchers in Germany reported that since 2005 there have been 37 controlled studies assessing the safety and efficacy of marijuana and its naturally occurring compounds, involved a total of 2,563 subjects. By contrast, most FDA-approved drugs go through far fewer trials involving far fewer subjects.
According to a recent meta-analysis published in the scientific journal Medicinal Research Reviews, “Research on the chemistry and pharmacology of cannabinoids (the uniquely active compounds in the marijuana plant) and endocannabinoids (receptors in the human body that interact with these cannabinoids) has reached enormous proportions.” A keyword search on the search engine PubMed proves this point, revealing over 2,700 separate papers published on cannabis in 2009 and another 900 published just this year alone.
Two notable preclinical trials appeared in press just last week. Researchers at the State University of New York in Syracuse reported in the journal Pharmacology that the administration of the plant cannabinoids delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC halted cellular respiration and tumor growth in human oral cancer cells. Specifically, investigators reported that cannabinoids were a “potent inhibitor” of Tu183 human cancer cells, a notoriously difficult to treat type of oral cancer.
A separate preclinical study published online last week in the journal Cell Communication and Signaling reported that the administration of the non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabidiol increases adult neurogenesis (the active production of new neurons) in laboratory animals. Authors speculated that cannabis’ pro-neurogenic effects may explain why the plant appears to be useful in the treatment of certain neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Predictably, neither the editors of the Record Searchlight nor any other mainstream U.S. publication felt compelled to report on these results.
Ultimately, calls for further research ring hollow if so few decision-makers are willing to acknowledge the abundant scientific evidence that is already out there.
Paul Armentano is the deputy director of NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, and he is the co-author of the book “Marijuana Is Safer: So Why Are We Driving People to Drink?” He lives in Vallejo. Scripps Lighthouse
Dane County Board votes unanimously to put MMJ Advisory Referendum on Nov. 2 General Election Ballot
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, July 16, 2010
Great news out of Madison as Dane County becomes to first Wisconsin locale to have a medical cannabis advisory referendum on the Nov. 2 general election ballot! Big thanks to Dane County Supervisor Jon Hendrick and his colleagues who made this a reality!
Dane County Board votes unanimously to put MMJ Advisory Referendum on Nov. 2 General Election Ballot
MADISON: In a voice vote, the Dane County Board unanimously voted Thursday night to place a Medical Marijuana Advisory Referendum on county ballots for the Nov. 2 general election. Thursday's vote sets up the first-ever vote in Dane County on medical marijuana.
The resolution was sponsored by District 6 Supervisor Jon Hendrick, who was joined by 12 cosponsors. It had previously passed out of the board's Executive Committee on July 8 on a unanimous 6-0 vote.
The vote means that on Nov. 2, all Dane County ballots will carry this question:
"Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
Dane County Alert – Ask Your County Supervisor to Vote for Medical Cannabis Advisory Referendum Resolution This Thursday July 15!
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, July 11, 2010
A vote has been scheduled for this Thursday July 15 by the full Dane County Board on the resolution that would put a medical marijuana advisory referendum on the Nov. 2, 2010 general election ballot in Dane County.
Dane County Alert – Ask Your County Supervisor to Vote for Medical Cannabis Advisory Referendum Resolution This Thursday July 15!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
District 6 Supervisor John Hendricks' resolution placing a Medical Cannabis advisory referendum on the Dane County ballot this November is being voted on at the Dane County Board Meeting this coming Thursday, July 15, 2010. The meeting will begin at 7:00 pm in Room 201 of the City-County Building 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in downtown Madison. The exact time of the discussion and vote on the resolution is unknown.
Supporters are urged to attend and register in support as well as contact their County Supervisor and ask they vote for the medical marijuana advisory referendum resolution.
The resolution would place this question on the Dane County November general election ballot: "Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
If you live in Dane County, please contact your County Supervisor and ask them to vote in favor of the “Referendum On Medical Marijuana” resolution.
You can reach your Dane County Supervisor through the Board Main Number: 608-266-5758 or by following the links below.
If you would like to find the supervisor of your district but do not know which district you live in, you can view a map of the supervisory districts at: http://www.countyofdane.com/lio/supervisorydistricts.asp
The following information can be viewed online at: http://www.countyofdane.com/board/supervisors.aspx
District Name Phone Email
1 Scott McDonell
608/259-9506 mcdonell@co.dane.wi.us
2 Barbara Vedder
(608) 249-8428 vedder.barbara@co.dane.wi.us
3 Donald Imhoff
(608) 241-3937 imhoff.donald@co.dane.wi.us
4 Brett Hulsey
608/238-6070 hulsey@co.dane.wi.us
5 Analiese Eicher
(608) 449-5218 eicher@co.dane.wi.us
6 John Hendrick
446-4842 hendrick@co.dane.wi.us
7 Matt Veldran
Cell (608) 235-8369 veldran@co.dane.wi.us
8 Carousel Andrea Bayrd
608/442-6294 bayrd@co.dane.wi.us
9 Dianne Hesselbein
219-8127 hesselbein@co.dane.wi.us
10 Jeremy Levin
(608) 577-9335 levin.jeremy@co.dane.wi.us
11 Al Matano
608/238-3045 matano@co.dane.wi.us
12 Paul Rusk
608/249-9667 rusk@co.dane.wi.us
13 Chuck Erickson
608-251-3622 erickson.chuck@co.dane.wi.us
14 Melanie Hampton
(608) 273-9149 hampton.melanie@co.dane.wi.us
15 Ronn Ferrell
695-1321 ronnferrell15@charter.net
16 Dave de Felice
(608) 222-0319 defelice@co.dane.wi.us
17 Tom Stoebig
608/222-6429 stoebig@co.dane.wi.us
18 Melissa Sargent
cell (608) 220-2273 sargent@co.dane.wi.us
19 Bill Clausius
(608) 825-1465 clausius@co.dane.wi.us
20 Duane Gau
(608) 320-1100 gau@co.dane.wi.us
21 David Wiganowsky
608/837-8604 wiganowsky@co.dane.wi.us
22 Dennis O'Loughlin
608/846-1851 oloughlin@co.dane.wi.us
23 Shelia Stubbs
608/2
23-1684 stubbs@co.dane.wi.us
24 Robin Schmidt
221-0514 schmidt.robin@co.dane.wi.us
25 Eileen Bruskewitz
608/249-9188 bruskewitz@co.dane.wi.us
26 Sharon Corrigan
(608) 333-2285 corrigan@co.dane.wi.us
27 Kyle Richmond
608/251-3171 richmond.kyle@co.dane.wi.us
28 Kurt Schlicht
(608) 576-9897 schlicht.kurt@co.dane.wi.us
29 Dave Ripp
608/849-7643 ripp.david@co.dane.wi.us
30 Patrick Downing
608/527-2472 downing@co.dane.wi.us
31 Gerald Jensen
(608) 835-7389 jensen.gerald@co.dane.wi.us
32 Mike Willett
(608) 845-8503 willett@co.dane.wi.us
33 Jack Martz
608/274-7437 martz@co.dane.wi.us
34 Patrick Miles
(608) 838-6866 miles@co.dane.wi.us
35 Denise Duranczyk
(608) 873-8302 duranczyk@co.dane.wi.us
36 Cynda Solberg
(608) 839-9583 solberg@co.dane.wi.us
37 Bob Salov
608/423-4358 salov@co.dane.wi.us
Dane County Board to vote July 15 on medical cannabis advisory referendum for fall ballot
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, July 9, 2010
Below is the most recent info on the Dane County advisory referendum.
Madison NORML Examiner: Dane County Board to vote July 15 on medical cannabis advisory referendum for fall ballot
MADISON: The Dane County Board’s Executive Committee unanimously voted Thursday night to send to the full County Board a resolution that would put an advisory referendum on medical marijuana on county ballots in the Nov. 2 general election. The vote to adopt Res. 70, 10-11, Referendum on Medical Marijuana by the full 37-member panel is scheduled for the Thursday July 15 meeting.
The resolution asks whether board members want to place the following question before voters:
"Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
A public hearing will be convened during Thursday's County Board meeting at which supporters will have the opportunity to register or testify in support. Because the hearing is part of a meeting, testimony is usually limited to five speakers. The meeting will begin at 7:00 pm in Room 201 of the City-County Building 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in downtown Madison. Supporters are urged to attend and register in support as well as contact their County Supervisor and ask they vote for the medical marijuana advisory referendum resolution.
You can reach your Dane County Supervisor through the Board Main Number: 608-266-5758 or by following the links below:
Madison NORML Examiner: Madison’s Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival to mark 40 years this October
By Gary Storck
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
MADISON: What began as an anti-war protest 40 years ago that soon morphed into a cannabis legalization rally will celebrate the beginning of its fifth decade October 1-3, 2010. The Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival has long been a fall ritual in Madison as much as University of Wisconsin Badger Football or Halloween on State St.
Sadly, this year will not be the anticipated celebration of the passage of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act but yet another call to action as the fight for reefer sanity rages on both in Wisconsin, and much more successfully in other states.
The 40th Annual Harvest Fest will follow the format used in recent years, a Friday evening benefit to kick off the weekend, live music, speakers, informational tabling and vending on Saturday afternoon at the Library Mall at the end of State St., and Sunday’s traditional Parade to the Capitol for a concert and rally.
According to the brand new Harvest Fest website, the 2010 festival will feature a not only some familiar faces but also some new ones. Festival organizer Ben Masel, who has been the driving force behind Harvest Fest for the last 38 years, will be speaking along with Wisconsin colleagues Gary Storck and Jacki Rickert. Their fellow “Medical Marijuana Commando Squad” member, Jim Miller from New Jersey, is also returning.
NORML Founder Keith Stroup, who last spoke at Harvest Fest 35 in 2005, is also on the bill again this year. And a retired judge from California, Judge Jim Gray, will be making his first Harvest Fest appearance this year. Also returning is Mason Tvert, a Colorado activist and the Founder of Safer Alternative For Enjoyable Recreation (SAFER), who spoke at HF 39 last year.
The festival will also feature a great array of homegrown Wisconsin music across a range of genres. Returning favorites include Nama Rupa, Baghdad Scuba Review, Ifdakar and Groovulous Glove with more to be announced. Bands appearing for the first time include Phish tribute band Phun and Milwaukee reggae band, Recalcitrant.
The Friday night event, the 8th Annual IMMLY/Madison NORML Medical Cannabis Benefit, happens at the Frequency at 121 W. Main, a block from the Capitol. Music will be provided by Brok’n Arrow and the Shanahan-Riddiough Band, and as with the prior seven events, will feature the traditional sing along version of the Wisconsin medical cannabis anthem, “Legal Medicine Blues”.
The fact this is the 40th speaks to not only Madison's place as a cannabis-friendly town as well as the fact that this is also a protest against marijuana prohibition, a protest that will be entering its FIFTH decade this October when number 40 convenes.
Thousands and thousands and thousands of people have attended Harvest Fest over these years. Almost everyone who has lived in Madison has a HF story, even if just from crossing paths with the parade or passing through on the way to a Badger football game. The magic starts again Oct. 1.
Madison NORML Examiner: Medical Marijuana Supporters at Leah Vukmir campaign event outnumber Vukmir fans
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, June 18, 2010
Here is my report on the protest at the Leah Vukmir fundraiser in downtown Madison Thursday, June 17, 2010. You can read original article with photos.
Medical Marijuana Supporters at Leah Vukmir campaign event outnumber Vukmir fans
June 18, 10:35 AM
Madison NORML Examiner
Gary Storck
MADISON: Medical marijuana advocates protesting an appearance by anti-medical cannabis zealot Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa) at a downtown restaurant Thursday evening outnumbered her supporters . The event was a fundraiser at Madison’s restaurant in downtown Madison for Vukmir’s Senate campaign against Sen. Jim Sullivan (D-Wauwatosa). Vukmir, who shocked attendees with a vitriolic attack on medical marijuana patients at a Dec. 15, 2009 public hearing on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, is giving up her Assembly seat in an attempt to move up to State Senate.
The medical marijuana activists who gathered at the corner of King St. and E. Wilson just a block from the State Capitol received continuous honks of support from passing motorists. Passersby of all ages were extremely supportive of medical marijuana, often stopping to chat or lend support. Several joined those protesting and held signs..
Even more amazing were a number of acknowledgements of support for medical cannabis from people attending the Vukmir event. Even Sen. Glenn Grothman (R-West Bend) had nothing negative to say either about our presence or the issue of medical cannabis as he stopped to talk to advocates both before and after his short visit to the event.
Rep. Vukmir herself seemed unprepared that a downtown Madison fundraiser would attract so much attention from those who strongly disagree with her uncompassionate and brutal opposition to allowing state veterans, seniors, the sick, disabled, the dying to utilize this ancient remedy legally in the Badger State. Her and her party nearly collided with protesters as she rounded the corner of King St. to head in to the event.
Another sign of public support came after Vukmir and crew had departed as advocates were preparing to pack up, a pizza delivery guy showed up with two large pepperoni and cheese pizzas! Supporters happily devoured the impromptu dinner, which appeared to be a little more robust than what Vukmir supporters were paying as much as $1000 a head for.
Dane County Alert – Ask Your County Supervisor to Sign On to Medical Cannabis Advisory Referendum Resolution
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, June 14, 2010
Good news as the Advisory Referendum campaign moves forward. (See JRMMA.org for more details on the advisry referendum plans.) If you live in Dane County please contact your County Supervisor and ask them to sign on. Details are below.
Dane County Alert – Ask Your County Supervisor to Sign On to Medical Cannabis Advisory Referendum Resolution
Monday, June 14, 2010
A resolution placing a Medical Cannabis advisory referendum on the Dane County ballot this November is being circulated by District 6 Supervisor John Hendrick for supervisors to sign on at the Thursday June 17 County Board Meeting. The resolution will be formally considered at a later date.
The resolution would place this question on the Dane County November general election ballot: "Should the Wisconsin Legislature enact legislation allowing residents with debilitating medical conditions to acquire and possess marijuana for medical purposes if supported by their physician?"
If you live in Dane County, please contact your County Supervisor and ask them to sign on to the “Referendum On Medical Marijuana” resolution!
Letter: WI state Journal: Try again to pass medical marijuana
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Nice to have letters in Wisconsin's two largest newspapers within a few days! Here is the Wisconsin State Journal letter. The other was Monday's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel LTE.
Source: Wisconsin State Journal
Posted: Thursday, May 13, 2010
Try again to pass medical marijuana
Veterans and others managing post traumatic stress report that medical marijuana can help in ways conventional medications cannot, without the toxicity, side effects and interactions.
Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, showed true support for vets and other PTSD sufferers by including it among qualifying debilitating medical conditions in the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. Unfortunately, the bill died in committee like so many others before it.
In 2007, New Mexico also faced the end of session without passing a medical marijuana bill long in the works. Gov. Bill Richardson persuaded wavering lawmakers to come back and pass it, making New Mexico the first state to pass a bill specifically including PTSD, and the 12th state to OK medical marijuana.
Should he move to call the Legislature back into session, Gov. Jim Doyle, long on record as willing to sign legislation giving doctors this option, should do what Richardson did and convince lawmakers to act to make this health care option a reality for Wisconsin patients and veterans.
Don't veterans who fought for freedom deserve the freedom to choose which medicine works best for them?
- Gary Storck, Madison, director of communications, Is My Medicine Legal YET? (www.immly.org)
Regarding the May 7 Journal Sentinel editorial urging Gov. Jim Doyle to call the Legislature back into session to "Finish the job," there is another issue, one that Doyle is on record as supporting, that also needs to be revisited this session - and that is medical marijuana.
In more than eight hours of gripping and emotional testimony at a hearing last December, more than 100 patients and family members testified how invaluable medical cannabis has been in treating a broad range of medical conditions, saving and extending lives and restoring quality of life and dignity to others.
Only five people testified against the bill, each representing a special interest that benefits from the current status quo that criminalizes cancer patients, veterans with PTSD and other conditions, the elderly, MS patients and others suffering debilitating medical conditions.
When the people speak, should not legislators listen? Further delay only continues to put our veterans, seniors, sick, disabled and dying squarely at risk not only of arrest and jail but also the dangers of using toxic conventional drugs with laundry lists of side effects and interactions that make them unsafe for even short-term use.
It's time for Doyle to make sure compassion is his legacy and for state lawmakers to find the courage to do the right thing.
Gary Storck
Executive Director
Wisconsin NORML
Madison
Racine Journal Times Editorial: Marijuana not right medicine
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, April 26, 2010
Just days after the failure of the WI Legislature to pass AB554/SB368, this scathing collection of misinformation under the guise of an "editorial" spews forth from the Racine Journal Times! Visit this link to comment on the original article.
It would be nice to think that medical marijuana laws did nothing more than provide some compassionate relief for terminally ill patients.
Nice and naive.
As the session in Madison ends, we're relieved that two Democratic state legislators, Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, failed in their efforts to mellow out anti-drug forces. They proposed a bill that would protect those with prescriptions for marijuana from prosecution.
We have always sympathized with cancer patients and others whose debilitating pain warrants such relief. But the recent follies of other states illustrate the need to strictly control how the pot is given out.
Many of the 14 states that have instituted such laws have learned the hard way that they're vulnerable to abuse. During a series of busts last year, California law enforcement agents found authorized dispensers selling to people whose only ailment was a swollen wallet.
Yet, Pocan and Erpenbach are eager to set up similar nonprofit "compassion centers." Those would need to be closely monitored, and does anyone want slimmed-down state government to beef up for a new oversight role right now?
Perhaps if the task were left in the hands of traditional pharmacies, which already act as gatekeepers for some otherwise illegal drugs, the idea would be more palatable here. A new Associated Press-CNBC poll suggests 6 in 10 Americans favor legalizing marijuana for medical uses.
We're also dubious of vague eligibility categories. Almost one-sixth of those allowed to smoke pot in the Golden State slip by with prescriptions for "mood disorders."
A law filled with loopholes can only undermine the anti-drug messages being conveyed to youths. Marijuana already carries less stigma, school health officials say, and a proposal to legalize it for everyone in California threatens to exacerbate that trend.
Besides the well-known health impacts that worsen with lasting use, research indicates pot smoking paves a path to other, more dangerous narcotics. Plus the chemicals in marijuana can turn up in tests weeks after use - costing kids jobs or roster spots on sports teams.
Rep. Mark Pocan & Sen. Jon Erpenbach: An Open Letter To Supporters Of Medical Marijuana:
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, April 23, 2010
A year ago today I was at the Capitol lobbying for the JRMMA with Mary Powers. We were full of hope that day as we began a sustained campaign of lobbying that took the two of us to over 80 offices until her death from cancer Oct. 22. Today, the legislative part of our efforts has come to a pause with the end of the session and the JRMMA not passed. We will now be moving into a new phase. This battle is only just beginning! Read the letter from the JRMMA sponsors below discussing the failure of the JRMMA to pass and the next phase: putting advisory referenda on local ballots.
April 22, 2010
AN OPEN LETTER TO SUPPORTERS OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA
We write today with heavy hearts to inform you that when the legislature closes out its two-year session today, medical marijuana protections for patients will not be law.
Today, we are disappointed, upset, but hopeful. We are disappointed because despite all the hope and hard work, medicinal marijuana did not pass the Legislature. We are upset because there are people suffering from serious illnesses who desperately need cannabis to manage their symptoms and they cannot find legal relief in Wisconsin.
However, we are hopeful because we have more momentum today than we've had over the past decade. We won tremendous victories this legislative session: .
. In December of 2009, we had the best public hearing on this bill ever, with 104 patients and doctors testifying or registering in favor of this legislation, and only six against.
. President Obama told the DEA to cease prosecuting people who use cannabis for medical purposes.
. The American Medical Association recently called for changing the status of marijuana to enable more research on medical marijuana, despite the opposition of the Wisconsin Medical Society.
. Governor Doyle signaled his support for medical marijuana with a doctor's recommendation, the first Wisconsin Governor to ever support this legislation.
. More states and municipalities (14 total) are legalizing medical marijuana, the most recent being Washington, DC this week.
. Organizational support continues to grow, including the Wisconsin Nurses Association, American Civil Liberties Union, AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Public Health Association, the American Bar Association, the American Public Health Association, the American Academy of HIV Medicine, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Two former U.S. Surgeons General - Joycelyn Elders and Jesse Steinfeld - also recognize marijuana as a legitimate, beneficial medicine.
. We earned the editorial endorsement from 10 newspapers across the state.
. With the help of Is My Medicine Legal Yet?, we generated thousands of constituent contacts to legislators all across the state encouraging them to support the bill.
Despite the hard work we all collectively put into this bill, there is still a lot more work to be done. We are not strangers to tackling the tough issues and standing up for people who otherwise might not have a champion in the Capitol. And we are not going to stop until we change the law and help seriously ill patients.
As we close out this session of the legislature, we are writing to thank you for your support, emails, phone calls and for sharing your personal stories. While this legislation is not moving forward now, we will continue to push this issue forward until we eventually change the law.
In the coming months, you will likely hear about advisory referenda being added to ballots in municipalities across the state as well as other critical news. Thus, we are also writing to ask you to do one last thing this session; if you have not already done so, please stay involved by signing up at www.jrmma.org. Please add your name to their email list and stay in touch as this movement continues to pick up momentum.
We will not stop until we have compassionate care for cancer patients, compassionate care for glaucoma patients, compassionate care for those suffering from PTSD and all the other patients for whom cannabis is helpful. One day, we will win and these patients will be protected from prosecution.
Thank you for your continuous efforts. Together, we will win!
Badger Herald: Medical marijuana unlikely to pass this legislative session
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Check out the condescending comments (in bold) from the Wisconsin Medical Society's Mark Grapentine. I’m sure they broke out the champagne and celebrated with their Big Pharma enablers at the news of their "victory" against Wisconsin's veterans, its seniors, its sick, disabled and dying. Perhaps Dr. Miller is a little too "hot" after being singled out at last weekend's Meetings and they need someone else to spew out their banal evil. Apparently Grapentine, who supported medical cannabis as a legislative staffer, is just as much of a whore as Dr. Miller, perhaps more.
Badger Herald: Medical marijuana unlikely to pass this legislative session
MEDICAL MARIJUANA UNLIKELY TO PASS THIS LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Pocan's office says news disappointing, others still recommend other options
The controversial medical marijuana bill that has gained much support over the last few months will not be passed this session, according to government officials.
The office of Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, confirmed the bill would not be placed on the calendar for the Legislature. Pocan is one of the main sponsors of the Assembly bill, which would allow qualifying patients with debilitating medical conditions to use marijuana to alleviate the symptoms of their condition.
"It is disappointing to many of us, myself included, that the Legislature did not pass medical marijuana this session. But as I have assured the patient advocates, our efforts enjoyed many successes this year and we came closer to our goal than ever before," Pocan said in a statement. "This fight is far from over because this issue is far too vital for too many people."
The last day of the regular legislative session is Thursday. However, there will be limited sessions the first week of May.
Gary Storck, president of Wisconsin chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, said he was very disappointed the bill would not be moving forward because they had a lot of hope that it would get done this session.
NORML will be working this summer to get referendums on local ballots on this issue across the state, Storck added, and will be getting signatures and organizers working to get the word out to more people.
"There's a lot of people in the Legislature who just don't get it," Storck said. "We've come to the conclusion that if you can't change the law, maybe you have to change the Legislature."
Storck added the movement supporting medical marijuana has grown significantly in the past couple months and has reached a level of activism not seen before.
Storck speculated many legislators may be hesitant to support the bill because they have false perceptions about the drug's dangers. He added many legal pharmaceutical drugs are much more harmful than marijuana.
"[Legislators have] been so brainwashed that marijuana is some kind of dangerous, illegal drug, that it's hard for them to think outside the box," Storck said. "Cannabis won't kill you; it won't cause permanent damage. It's definitely something that should be out there."
Mark Grapentine, senior vice president of government relations of the Wisconsin Medical Society, said they care deeply about people who are suffering, but medical marijuana is not the best treatment option and the organization does not support the bill.
Although they understand some people would like to embrace anything that seems helpful, what is most important is that any medicine a patient takes is safe, effective and has as few side effects as possible, he said. The state Legislature is not the appropriate body to be making that decision about marijuana.
"We don't believe anything you can just grow in your backyard . is really the best way to go in terms of advancing the science," Grapentine said. "We completely understand the desire for those who are suffering to find a way to alleviate that suffering, but you can't just skip steps in science and expect the best result."
Despite the three decade plus failure of the Wisconsin Legislature to decriminalize cannabis at the state level, counties across the state continue to fall in line. The latest may be Buffalo County!
"More than 50 other counties in Wisconsin already have similar ordinances, making it a simple forfeiture fine for first-time possession of small quantities of marijuana or related paraphernalia.
Still, in Wisconsin a second-time offender could be charged with a felony if caught with any amount of marijuana or drug paraphernalia."
A proposed Buffalo County ordinance would make it possible to fine first-time marijuana offenders rather than charge them in criminal court.
An ordinance being drafted by the county's law enforcement committee says first-time offenders caught with small amounts of marijuana or pot drug paraphernalia could be fined $100 to $500.
If charged with a small-quantity misdemeanor offense, the penalty now is normally a $330 fine and a year of probation.
Treating first offenses similarly to tickets for traffic violations would free up the court system to avoid criminal prosecutions and relieve probation officers of supervising low-risk offenders.
Buffalo County District Attorney Tom Clark said the ordinance would be a tool in dealing with young offenders rather than charging them with a criminal offense carrying lifelong implications.
The ordinance would give first-time offenders in possession of up to 14 grams of marijuana a second chance to keep a drug crime off their records.
The ordinance would give law enforcement officers and the district attorney discretion to cite an offender with an ordinance fine or charge them with a misdemeanor under state law.
A misdemeanor offense for a small amount of marijuana or paraphernalia could still stick on a person's record.
The proposal has support from the county sheriff's department, district attorney, circuit judge, public defender's office and county law enforcement committee.
Buffalo County Sheriff Michael Schmidtknecht said the ordinance also would take some pressure off the county jail.
The jail is frequently near its capacity for holding inmates. As the law now stands, a person with a small amount of pot is arrested and taken into custody.
More than 50 other counties in Wisconsin already have similar ordinances, making it a simple forfeiture fine for first-time possession of small quantities of marijuana or related paraphernalia.
Still, in Wisconsin a second-time offender could be charged with a felony if caught with any amount of marijuana or drug paraphernalia.
Buffalo County Sheriff's Investigator Lee Engfer said 14 grams is about enough to make seven marijuana cigarettes.
Engfer and officers Colin Severson and Mike Osmond said they see possession of more than 14 grams as evidence of having more pot than necessary for personal use.
By having a county pot ordinance, the county also can retain more of the fine money, officials said.
US WI: Debate Over Legalizing Marijuana for Medical Reasons Heats Up in Wisconsin
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Great article by Jim Collar. Jim wrote about earlier medical cannabis bills at his prior employer, the Oshkosh Northwestern, when GOP Rep. Gregg Underheim had a bill in the 2003-2005 and 2006-2007 sessions before retiring.
Pubdate: Sun, 18 Apr 2010
Source: Post-Crescent, The (Appleton, WI)
Webpage: http://mapinc.org/url/0jhQJvEj
Copyright: 2010 The Post-Crescent
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/yqP960uk
Website: http://www.postcrescent.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1443
Author: Jim Collar, Post-Crescent staff writer
Referenced: medical marijuana bill
http://www.legis.state.wi.us/2009/data/AB-554.pdf
Referenced: industrial hemp bill www.legis.state.wi.us/2009/data/AB-740.pdf
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?253 (Cannabis - Medicinal - U.S.)
DEBATE OVER LEGALIZING MARIJUANA FOR MEDICAL REASONS HEATS UP IN WISCONSIN
Jeffrey Smith says it's time for Wisconsin to put aside its fears and loosen its grip on the use of marijuana.
"Our best weapon is the truth," said Smith, a Brillion resident. "We need to get past all of the old stereotypes. It's getting past all 70-plus years of all-out lies about what the plant is and what it can do."
Smith is a paraplegic. He said marijuana provides relief for his muscle pain. And he wants state lawmakers to approve bills this week that would allow marijuana use by those with certain debilitating medical conditions and create a state registry of those who qualify.
Time is of the essence - the bills will die if a vote isn't taken by the end of the legislative floor period for general business on Thursday.
Opponents say Wisconsin would be ill-advised to loosen restrictions on marijuana. They see it as the first step of a slippery slope.
Appleton's Donna Daniels, coordinator of Wisconsin Families in Action, is concerned that the growing advocacy for medical marijuana could be creating some confusion on a drug that's still illegal and far more potent and dangerous than the marijuana of decades ago.
"There's a need to step up education, and not just to young people, but to parents as well," she said.
Last month, the state Department of Justice announced seven Fox Valley arrests after an investigation into a drug ring they say distributed hundreds of pounds of marijuana and $4 million worth of cocaine. Weeks later, the justice department announced two arrests and seizure of 116 marijuana plants at homes in Sauk and Columbia counties.
Meanwhile, residents statewide have attended rallies supporting bills that would legalize marijuana for medicinal purposes. Activists held an educational event at the Appleton Public Library earlier this month. The "THC Tour" has moved throughout the state to build support for medical marijuana bills and another bill that would lift a prohibition on the manufacture of industrial hemp.
One would have to look no farther than California to get a sense of the concerns of opponents of those bills. There, voters will decide in November on whether the state would become the first to make marijuana legal for recreational use.
By most accounts, Wisconsin isn't in the same place.
The medical marijuana bills have stalled in the Legislature after a December hearing.
Dr. Darold Treffert, a psychiatrist from Fond du Lac and member of Wisconsin's Controlled Substances Board, joins those who see medical marijuana paving the way to full legalization.
He pointed to the explosion of medical marijuana dispensaries in California and the ease by which people can obtain permits for use.
"They have more dispensaries for marijuana than there are Starbucks," he said.
Polls: Attitudes Shift
While they are far from having a consensus, activists say they're finding more open ears than they had even a few years ago.
Jay Selthofner, field director for Wisconsin's chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, said tides are changing. The long-illicit plant moved from taboo to a place where people are at least willing to engage in discussion on its use.
"The time has come," he said. "It's not that we're doing anything different. People aren't afraid to speak out about it anymore."
Polls suggest a culture shift on the issue, though viewpoints on marijuana differ by degree of restrictions.
A poll released by the Pew Research Center this month found 73 percent of Americans favored having their states allow use and sale of marijuana for medical purposes. A majority of Americans, however, still believe recreational use should remain illegal, according to an October Gallup Poll.
Margins, though, are becoming narrower.
In 1995, just 25 percent of those surveyed by the Gallup organization responded in favor of fully legalizing marijuana. In October, 44 percent supported legalization.
Polls and surveys suggest an aging baby boomer population may have a role on shifting opinions.
An even 50 percent of those questioned in the October Gallup Poll from ages 18 to 49 favored legalization. Just 28 percent of those 65 and older would support legal marijuana, according to the poll.
That gap is just as evident in terms of historical usage.
A 2008 federal survey found 9.3 percent of those 65 or older used marijuana at least once in their lifetimes. By comparison, more than 57 percent of those ages 45 to 49 reported having used the drug.
Supporters say old views have been the biggest impediment.
Gary Storck, of Madison, a longtime advocate for legalizing medical marijuana, attributes tarrying among lawmakers to misinformation spread through decades of anti-drug campaigns.
Society had been close to legalizing marijuana as late as the 1970s, he said.
He recalled one of his friends being caught by police with marijuana in 1969. Police then said they figured marijuana would be legalized within a couple of years.
Storck said it's hard to believe it's still an issue, particularly for medical applications.
"It's nothing to be feared," he said.
The Medical Issue
Wisconsin's bills, if enacted, would make it the 15th state to legalize marijuana for medical purposes.
Michigan enacted a medical marijuana law in 2008. Lawmakers in Minnesota, Illinois and Iowa also have had bills to consider.
Wisconsin's proposals have brought passionate responses from both sides.
Doctors aren't necessarily opposed to the idea of using the active ingredient in marijuana for medical applications, Treffert said. It is effective in certain situations.
Many in the medical community, however, are opposed to legalizing a medicine outside of the traditional Federal Drug Administration approval process. One pill based on marijuana's active ingredient is already on the market. Another drug is going through trials, Treffert said.
"Physicians have been cast as sort of mean to people - that we're not compassionate," he said. "That's not it at all."
Treffert fears doctors would be pressured into marijuana prescriptions even when they don't believe it's the right treatment. He has just as much concern that medical marijuana would mean greater availability of marijuana for recreational users.
Supporters point to those who've gained relief as evidence of its benefit.
Selthofner talked about a young cancer patient who was bedridden and couldn't keep food down. After talking with a friend, she tried marijuana. She was able to eat and get out of bed.
Storck discussed an Iraq War veteran who found marijuana has eased severe post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Selthofner said those who've talked to their doctors and found marijuana worked better than and without the side effects of other medicines shouldn't be cast as criminals, he said.
He knows not everyone is convinced.
"It's not for everybody," he said of marijuana. "No medicine is for everybody."
Debate Increasing, Use Isn't
The debate on marijuana hasn't occurred in a vacuum.
Kathy Verstegen, a nurse at Kimberly High School, said students aren't ignorant of the issue.
The Kimberly Area School District has one of the most comprehensive drug prevention programs in the region, which includes random drug testing for students who have parking spots or participate in extracurricular activities.
Verstegen conducts those tests. She's listened to students voice opinions supporting legalization. Sometimes they want to be heard, but she suspects they many times want information.
"That's always my opportunity to go back to the basics on marijuana and talk about the detriment and that it can ruin a young life," she said.
One survey suggests the debate hasn't muddied health messages directed at teens.
The Wisconsin Youth Risk Behavior Survey released in December showed declines in recent years in the number of high school students who reported marijuana use.
The percentage of students who smoked marijuana at least once in their lives was its lowest last year in the 12-year period included in the report at 34.2 percent. The percentage who used marijuana within 30 days of the survey dipped just more than one percentage point from 2007 to 18.9 percent last year. It was the second-lowest percentage in the 12-year comparison.
Treffert isn't certain downward trends will continue
A federal study released in January said consistent declines among high school students have leveled off, as perceived risks associated with regular marijuana use has declined.
He said the medical marijuana debate has a role in how young people perceive the danger of the drug.
Changing attitudes haven't meant a change in police encounters among adults.
Brad Dunlap, commander of the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group Drug Unit, said marijuana is the most widely used illegal drug in the region, though there's nothing from an enforcement standpoint to suggest its use is on an upswing.
"There are certainly spikes, but we see a fairly consistent number of arrests from year to year," he said.
In Outagamie County, adult arrests for marijuana possession averaged 330 per year from 2004 through 2008. In that five-year period, the highest number of possession arrests came in 2008 with 351, state statistics show. Winnebago County's arrest rate also maintained consistency during that period. The county saw a five-year average of 329 annual arrests. Its highest year for arrests was 2005 with 352 arrested.
Debate Continues
Appleton's Daniels said she knows what she's up against. She attended a hearing on medical marijuana where she was the lone voice among more than 100 to speak against the bills. It's an uphill battle, and one that starts with parents. It's more vital than ever for parents to learn the risks out there and pass their values onto their children.
"Today's world isn't like it was when we were teenagers," she said.
Smith said those in favor of lifting restrictions on hemp and marijuana have plenty of reason for confidence.
"We're making strides," he said.
[sidebar]
MARIJUANA BY THE NUMBERS
4 Days remaining before Wisconsin medical marijuana bills would die should they fail to come up for a vote in the legislature.
14 States that currently have laws allowing for medicinal use of marijuana
15.2 Percentage of Americans aged 12 or older who used marijuana within a month of a 2008 federal survey
34.2 Percentage of high school students in 2009 who reported having tried marijuana in their lifetimes
24,211 Fans through Saturday of a Facebook Web page supporting medical marijuana in Wisconsin
BILL TO LEGALIZE MEDICAL MARIJUANA UNDER REVIEW IN WISCONSIN
If Assembly Bill 554 is voted into law, Wisconsin would be the 15th state to legalized medical marijuana.
Area residents who support the bill, also known as the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA), are hoping that the state legislature will vote in favor of the bill before it ends regular business on April 22.
Among the supporters of this bill is Gary Storck, president of Wisconsin NORML and director of communications of Is My Medicine Legal Yet?
Storck, who has congenital open-angle glaucoma, has been an advocate of medical marijuana for over 25 years.
He explained that a bill was passed on April 20, 1982 that authorized the establishment of therapeutic research programs to provide cannabis to patients.
Unfortunately for patients, the bill was written with the expectation that the federal government, who holds a monopoly on legal marijuana supplies, would be the provider.
This is what the new medical marijuana bill is trying to change.
Storck says medical marijuana is a safe and effective alternative to harmful prescription drugs.
"Many people are being harmed because they are being forced to take these drugs that are bad for their bodies," Storck said. "Many of the patients who are on these drugs say that they don't work well, were addictive or gave them symptoms that were intolerable."
According to Storck, the benefits of using a natural medication versus a synthetic one are great.
"Marijuana has never been proven to be harmful," Storck said. "It has never killed any lab animals during tests, and it doesn't mess with serotonin levels in the brain. It is a natural herb that has been used for thousands of years, so it has a long-term history of being very healthy."
According to David Nordstrom, a professor at the UW-Whitewater who recently debated with Storck, said we should be doing more test on this drug before we legalize it.
He said that he is not an ac tivist on the issue and is not lobbying for or against the legalization of the drug.
"There are those who want to throw the FDA out the window and go through the legislative political process to choose drugs. That's not right in my opinion," Nordstrom said.
Nordstrom also said he doesn't think there is much backing for the drug by health officials or medical providers.
William Stephan, student nurse's aide at UW-Oshkosh's Student Health Center, said marijuana has many adverse effects a lot of people are not aware of.
"Marijuana is a harmful drug that has adverse effects such as psychotic disorders, increased anxiety and depression. Research has also shown that the drug affects heart rate, coordination and memory and could cause learning difficulties," Stephan said.
Stephan believes that if more people would take the time to research the drug's true effects, they would no longer support the bill.
A recent poll by ABC News showed that 81 percent of Americans support legalizing medical cannabis, including 75 percent of Republicans.
"I think it has a good chance of passing, but I think that the use will be so limited that many people will not be able to obtain a prescription," Stephan said.
Storck said the thinks most Democrats in the Wisconsin State Senate will vote to pass the bill. He is unsure about the response from the Republicans.
"No Republicans have come out and said that they will vote for the bill," Storck said. "Many have said that they support it, but aren't actively working to make it happen."
Storck said he is keeping his hopes up for the bill to pass, although, many are beginning to think it won't.
"We have until April 22 for it to pass out of both committees and have a floor vote," Storck said. "So far, no vote has been scheduled at this time. We really aren't seeing a lot of movement."
Storck said if the bill fails, it will be heartbreaking to many people in Wisconsin.
WauwatosaNow.Com: Business Notes: April 14: Psychiatric disorders and marijuana link studied
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Instead of studying cannabinoids to find medical benefit, the Medical College of Wisconsin is trying to find harm. And of course, no humans will be studied either, because mice and rats smoke marijuana, not people.
The Medical College of Wisconsin will investigate the effects of chemicals in marijuana on the development of psychiatric disorders thanks to $1.7 million grant from the National Institute of Health's National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Some people who use marijuana, particularly teens, have increased risks of developing psychiatric disorders later in life, including schizophrenia-like psychoses and bipolar disorder.
Using lab research and mouse models, this study will test the hypothesis that the primary psychoactive chemical in marijuana produces an over-activation of an enzyme in the brain and that this is responsible for the increased incidence of psychiatric disorders in marijuana users.
GUEST COLUMN: An Open Letter to Wisconsin State Attorney General, J.B. Van Hollen, Regarding His Position on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Today's blog posting is courtesy of two Wisconsin medical cannabis activists, Jacob Cox & Alex Troester from the La Crosse, WI & Winona, MN Region Americans for Safe Access Coalition! Thanks Jake and Alex for the great analysis!
An Open Letter to Wisconsin State Attorney General, J.B. Van Hollen, Regarding His Position on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
By Jacob Cox & Alex Troester La Crosse, WI & Winona, MN Region Americans for Safe Access Coalition
Your position of opposition to the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA) as laid forth in your December 15, 2009, letter to the members of the Senate Committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue and to the members of the Assembly Committee on Public Health contains many traditional arguments against marijuana that for decades have neglected to consider the undesirable consequences of marijuana prohibition and how it has shaped the scenario in which we find ourselves with marijuana and hemp today. If one is to understand the importance of medical marijuana legislation such as the JRMMA, one must first understand marijuana prohibition.
We have learned through the prohibition of alcohol that the federal government prohibiting a substance for which there is a public demand does not and cannot eliminate that substance, but rather places it in the hands of an underground market. This underground market leaves marijuana entirely unregulated and in the hands of organized groups who will use violence if necessary to protect their marijuana and the large profits associated with its unregulated trade. Permitting marijuana to be used and distributed for medical purposes not only means making marijuana more regulated than it currently is, but it also means allowing patients who need it to obtain it lawfully in a safe, regulated manner rather than leaving them to find a dealer on the dangerous, unregulated underground market. Medical marijuana legislation such as the JRMMA would provide regulatory framework for the safe production and distribution of medical marijuana to patients with specified medical conditions. It would essentially legitimize and bring into the lawful realm of business a sizeable sector of the already-existing underground marijuana market, taking money away from criminal drug cartels.
The JRMMA, as you have said, does indeed circumvent the currently-in-place scheme for approving and controlling drugs to be used as medicine, but only because that is what prohibition has forced the medical marijuana movement to do. The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is currently coordinating an effort with researchers at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst (UMA) seeking permission to begin the studies needed to complete the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process, but the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is blocking their efforts. MAPS and the UMA researchers are trying to create a facility to grow specific marijuana strains under controlled, reproducible conditions to test under FDA specifications marijuana’s efficacy for various conditions. Such research is essential for FDA approval, but the DEA has repeatedly refused to approve such a facility. Many notable medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians, have also recently urged the DEA and FDA to clear the way for medical marijuana research to no avail. Clearly certain federal agencies are dead set on stifling the necessary research to complete the FDA approval process, so the medical marijuana movement has had no choice but to pursue alternative legislative means to legitimizing marijuana as a medicine for patients who need it.
Reputable literature that details marijuana’s 4,000+ years of therapeutic and medicinal use by humans is now widely available to anyone with access to a well-networked library and the internet, so the argument that marijuana has no medicinal applications at this point is simply not true. While the FDA and DEA have been stifling approved research on marijuana’s medicinal properties, research in the state of California and outside of the United States has been progressing quite rapidly and continues to reveal the scientific details of marijuana’s many significant medicinal applications. The Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) at the University of California-San Diego was initiated on behalf of the state of California after the state became the nation’s first to enact medical marijuana legislation and has since released numerous peer-reviewed scientific journal articles on the subject. The CMCR has concluded the following: inhaled marijuana has a safe and consistent therapeutic value comparable to that of currently-available prescription medications, inhaled marijuana is an effective treatment for neuropathic pain and multiple sclerosis spasticity, the THC content of marijuana can be used to determine a patient’s proper dosage of marijuana, and vaporization of marijuana is a safe and effective alternative method of administration that is often preferred by patients because it facilitates a longer duration of effects.
Research titled ‘Cannabinoids: potential anticancer agents’ appeared in the peer-reviewed scientific journal Nature Reviews Cancer 3 in October 2003 and demonstrated that marijuana helps cancer patients alleviate nausea, vomiting, and general pain by stimulating the appetite. Furthermore, this research concluded that the cannabinoids contained in marijuana can actually inhibit and suppress tumors by modulating key cell-signaling pathways. This property of the cannabinoids in marijuana is likely why Dr. Donald Tashkin at the University of California-Los Angeles found in 2006 that smoking marijuana has no positive association with lung cancer, even in individuals who claimed to have smoked more than 22,000 joints.
Recent advances in the medical marijuana industry have made it possible to assess the THC content of a given strain of marijuana in terms of a percentage (%THC). The different varieties of marijuana (Cannabis indica, Cannabis sativa, and Cannabis ruderalis) have also been demonstrated to have varied effects and applications. The %THC and variety of plant can be considered to determine the right type of medical marijuana for a given condition and to coordinate a safe, accurate dosage regimen. Marijuana extraction products such as hash oil and tincture can also be made and used in such a way that makes it even easier for a patient to control dosage.
While a more complete summarization of the thousands of recent research publications on medical marijuana would be quite extensive and fascinating, this handful of publications adequately demonstrates that marijuana can be used safely, therapeutically and medicinally, for many different reasons. Having established marijuana’s medicinal applications, it is important to evaluate the potential for medical marijuana to be abused and lead to other drugs.
Anything, including drugs, has the potential to be abused because humans have a tendency to repeat pleasurable experiences. It is thus a ludicrous concept, prohibiting something simply because it could potentially be abused. This concept would have fast-food, candy, television, and pleasure itself banned as well. Currently accepted and prescribed opiate pain medications have an extremely high potential for abuse and are also quite toxic, yet they are legal and readily available to patients. If such dangerous medications are to remain legal to prescribe, medical marijuana certainly deserves an equal consideration. Even if a patient were to use medical marijuana with such frequency that the National Institute on Drug Abuse would classify it as abuse, there would be very few, if any, undesirable consequences. Medical marijuana is safe, non-toxic, and may actually block opiate dependence, a finding that further disproves the gateway theory argument.
The gateway theory for marijuana makes sense at first glance, but many people who report moving on to other drugs after starting with marijuana are heavily influenced in their decision to do so by underground market poly-drug dealers who sell marijuana as well as a plethora of other substances. This gateway effect is then due more to the close proximity of marijuana to other more harmful drugs on the unregulated underground market than to any property of the marijuana itself. Furthermore, the gateway theory happens to hold true for other substances as well. The reality is that life is a gateway and that we move from substance to substance as we age and mature. It could be said that people start on milk, move to sugar, and then to coffee. Thus it cannot be claimed that marijuana is especially significant as a gateway to other substances.
While using marijuana for any purpose remains illegal under federal law, in October 2009 the Obama administration announced it would not use federal resources to prosecute individuals and/or businesses properly operating within a state’s given medical marijuana regulations. With this policy now publicized and in action, there is little for potential medical marijuana patients in Wisconsin to fear from the federal government.
Furthermore, prosecution of recreational marijuana users has continued as usual in the fourteen states that have already enacted medical marijuana laws, so there is no reason to believe that the JRMMA would undercut the ability of Wisconsin law enforcement officers to investigate and prosecute recreational marijuana activity. Under the JRMMA, patients and caregivers would be required to register with the Department of Health Services (DHS), which would be responsible for approving patients and caregivers and supplying them with a means to identify themselves to law enforcement as medical marijuana patients and caregivers protected under the JRMMA. This identification tool would make it very easy for law enforcement to distinguish between those complying and those not complying with the JRMMA. It would also make it easy to determine in court which defendants would have a solid affirmative action defense. If the individual is a registered and approved patient or caregiver, then there would be no grounds for legal prosecution. If the individual is not registered and approved as a patient or caregiver, then that individual would be subject to prosecution as usual with no grounds for affirmative action defense. The registration and approval guidelines contained in the JRMMA are there to make it as easy as possible for law enforcement and court officials to continue doing their jobs as needed.
Policy can only hide from the truth for so much longer, and it is becoming clearer each day to the people of Wisconsin that the truth about marijuana is that it is a safe, effective medicine with a wide range of applications. Patients in this state have known this truth for years and it is time they are finally given safe, legitimate, legal access to their medicine. We urge you to change your position and declare support of the JRMMA so as to align your position with that of the people of Wisconsin and with that of modern scientific research.
Wisconsin NORML/JRMMA.org: RELEASE: Wisconsin NORML to begin airing television ad supporting state medical cannabis bill AB554
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, April 2, 2010
The release about our tv ad, now on the air in parts of Wisconsin. Visit JRMMA.org to help get it seen in more areas!
For immediate release: Friday, April 2, 2010
Wisconsin NORML
WINORML.org
Contact Gary Storck 608-241-8922
RELEASE: Wisconsin NORML to begin airing television ad supporting state medical cannabis bill AB554
MADISON - Gary Storck, President of the Wisconsin chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) announced today that the group's television ad supporting AB554/SB368 the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA), will begin airing this weekend in parts of Wisconsin.
"Thanks to some generous donations from $1 on up, Wisconsin NORML will begin airing a tv ad showing the faces of Wisconsin patients who can benefit from this compassionate exemption", said Storck. "Wisconsin residents who believe its time to protect patients using medical cannabis from arrest and jail need to contact their state legislators now or the issue will have to wait until the 2011-2012 session. Many patients will not live that long. We hope the ad will inspire citizens to urge the JRMMA be passed, This Bill, This Time!"
Storck, who appears at the beginning and end of the 30-second commercial is a longtime Wisconsin medical cannabis patient and advocate as well as the director of communications for the Wisconsin medical cannabis advocacy group, "is My Medicine Legal YET?" (IMMLY).
The ad was created for the group by Steve Swain of No-Koast Productions. "There's no better feeling than helping others who deserve it, but couldn't help themselves," Swain noted.
To view the ad visit JRMMA.org. For more information contact Gary Storck at 608-241-8922. For more information visit WINORML.org, IMMLY.org, JRMMA.org and MadisonNORML.org.
Lawmaker letter to constituent shows how Medical Society used as shield to oppose MMJ
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, March 26, 2010
Despite an 8 hour plus hearing as well as reams of studies emailed and delivered to her door, patient and advocate calls, letters, emails and office visits, State Sen. Mary Lazich is still spouting reefer madness hysteria as well as using the State Medical Society (SMS) as a shield to justify her opposition to something supported by 80% of Wisconsinites.
From: Sen.Lazich
Subject: Jackie Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
Dear X,
Thank you for your email about legalizing marijuana. I am so very sorry to about your back pain.
In an article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel a spokesman for the State Medical Society, Michael H. Miller, said, "marijuana is not a benign drug. Addiction to marijuana can and does occur." Miller, himself, recommended to the legislature, "wait until the science catches up" before changing any laws on marijuana.
The State Medical Society (SMS) of Wisconsin recommends that adequate and well-controlled studies of smoked marijuana be conducted in patients who have serious conditions, such as AIDS wasting syndrome, emesis induced by chemotherapy, and multiple sclerosis. The SMS contends that smoked marijuana should not be used for therapeutic reasons without scientific data regarding its safety and efficacy for specific indications.
Studies have found that marijuana contains toxins and carcinogens, cancer causing chemicals that stay in the body for several months after usage. Studies have also found that marijuana use contributes to bronchitis, emphysema, bronchial asthma, and has a profound impact on the lungs, heart rate, blood pressure, and brain activity. The studies have also found that brain function impairment, including loss of memory and deteriorated learning skills, is greater for those who are heavier and/or long-term marijuana users. Smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer and deaths in the United States. At a time that health care costs and lung cancer are skyrocketing, experts believe we should not loosen the laws on marijuana until the scientific evidence of marijuana’s potential risks and benefits are evaluated.
Marijuana and medical marijuana merits additional research and attention. Experts believe the issue needs to be explored on the social level, as well as the clinical level, and collaboration between the state and federal government is necessary for any legitimate policy decisions.
Again, thank you for your e-mail. I hope this information is helpful. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or advice for me, please contact me.
Sincerely,
Mary Lazich
Wisconsin State Senator
Wisconsin State Capitol
Room 109 South
Post Office Box 7882
Madison, Wisconsin 53702
Phone: (608)266-5400
Toll Free: (800)334-1442
Fax: (608)267-6790
Email: Sen.lazich@legis.wisconsin.gov
On the internet: www.SenatorLazich.com
Blog: http://www.newberlinnow.com/blogs/communityblogs/conserv_speaking.html
Tags: Gary Storck - Sen. Mary Lazich - Dr. Michael Miller - Wisconsin Medical Society - AB 554 - State Medical Society
Contact WI Medical Society to protest patient harassment by SMS
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, March 25, 2010
For many years, the State Medical Society has been opposing medical cannabis legislation in Wisconsin. On Tuesday March 23, at an informational picket staged by IMMLY, Madison NORML and WI NORML at the SMS offices downtown, we were confronted, provoked and harassed upon arrival by SMS employees behaving like thugs. We were photographed, threatened, and had our personal spaces violated. This is how the SMS responds to seniors, veterans, sick, disabled and dying patients who take issue with their misguided and harmful position on medical cannabis. Please read the post below and contact the SMS to protest their position and mistreatment of patients peacefully picketing their office.
Contact WI Medical Society to protest patient harassment by SMS
Man in red shirt is one of 2 SMS emplyees who harassed us.
Our March 23 informational picket of the Wisconsin State Medical Society was intended to be a way to educate SMS board members attending a meeting. Our small group of medical marijuana patients and supporters went to the SMS as injured parties to protest the opposition of the SMS to AB554/SB368, WI medical cannabis legislation. Patients, including 2 in wheelchairs, suffering from PTSD, fibromyalgia, AIDS, heart disease, glaucoma and other debilitating conditions do not go looking for confrontations.
But it was a confrontation waiting for us. Two low level SMS employees immediately tried to intimidate us, crossing into public space and getting in the faces of a vet with severe PTSD and others. He was rude, arrogant, and was clearly trying to provoke us. His sidekick went to far as to photograph and film us as well as the license plates of vehicles legally parked on public streets.
The public face of the SMS to those who come to air real grievances is threatening goons! An organization that cared if there were a dialogue could have instead sent a non threatening employee to initiate one. Clearly, the SMS is an organization used to getting its way in spite of what the public believes, and as they have successfully fended off medical marijuana with the help of Capitol political allies for decades now, clearly they feel threatened even by patients in wheelchairs who disagree with them.
The Dec. 15 public hearing revealed the vast downside of the legal prescription drugs that built the SMS HQ on the lake. The SMS must feel very threatened by the competition cannabis offers to their toxic drugs. So, they lobby to keep having patients who dare to try cannabis as an alternative being fair game for targeting by law enforcement and arrest and jail. Clearly, the SMS feels jail is a safer alternative than the cannabis plant. And, their “welcome” of Tuesday’s informational picket shows they would rather provoke a fight than discuss what their position means to Wisconsin seniors, vets, sick, disabled and dying.
Call The State Medical society and let them know what you think of their threatening and harassing of peaceful protesters on Tuesday March 23!
Please contact the Wisconsin State Medical Society
Susan L. Turney, MD, CEO/EVP
Wisconsin Medical Society
330 E. Lakeside Street
PO Box 1109
Madison, WI 53701-1109
Main Phone: 866.442.3800 (toll-free)
Main Fax: 608.442.3802
http://www.wisconsinmedicalsociety.org/
Email: communications@wismed.org
RELEASE: Wisconsin Residents for Assembly Bill 554: Statewide Demonstrations For Support Of The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act And Against Mi Wal-Mart Medical Marijuana Firing
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Coming off a successful Statewide Day of Prayer and Protest at the State Medical Society, Wisconsin medical cannabis advocates turn their attention to this Saturday's Statewide Day of support for the JRMMA and WalMart protests. Below is a release from Jay Selthofner regarding Saturday.
STATEWIDE DEMONSTRATIONS FOR SUPPORT OF THE JACKI RICKERT MEDICAL MARIJUANA ACT AND AGAINST MI WAL-MART MEDICAL MARIJUANA FIRING
Contact: Jay Selthofner
Phone: 920/410-2920
Email: immlyinthefield@yahoo.com
In a show of solidarity with medical marijuana patients across the midwest and to continue raising awareness of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act in Wisconsin, members of the Facebook group Wisconsin Residents for Assembly Bill 554 and medical marijuana supporters will be conducting peaceful demonstrations across the state in unison this Saturday the 27th of March.
Confirmed cities included (as of this release) - Eau Claire, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Appleton, Wisconsin Rapids, Platteville, Berlin, Dodgeville, La Crosse, Fond du Lac (Johnson St. @ Forest Mall), Kenosha, Milwaukee, and Madison/West Towne.
Other cities in planning stages and probably participating (as of this release) - Muskego, Waterton, Jefferson, Burlington, Racine, Fox Valley and Wisconsin Dells.
Events will start at 12 noon Saturday March, 27th at the local Wal-Mart stores and each city is reportedly developing a strategy that best fits their individual locations. Early reports have shown supporters with this dual message already at local area Walmarts.
As the floodgates continue to open more and more activists are joining the operation. To add more excitement a best picture contest for the "Best Medical Marijuana Support Sign" is underway through April 1st. To enter the contest, simply email your picture to smokegreenbuds@gmail.com, be sure to include your name, date of birth and contact information.
A Wal-Mart employee injured on the job was fired after testing positive for marijuana use, even though he was legally allowed to use the drug medically in Michigan. MSNBC reported March 17 that Joseph Casais, 29, used marijuana to ease the pain caused by sinus cancer and an inoperable brain tumor. The drug was prescribed by his doctor.
A former Wal-Mart Associate of the Year, Casais was fired after injuring his knee at work and a post-accident drug test revealed marijuana use. Casais said he never used the drug at work or came to work medicated.
# # #
For updated information go to - Wisconsin Residents for Assembly Bill 554 Facebook page - http://bit.ly/b5MMbe, www.winorml.org or www.immly.org
If you would like to schedule an interview with Jay Selthofner, please call Eric Grimes at 608-554-2231 or email at ericrgrimes@gmail.com
An open letter to the Wisconsin State Medical Society
Posted by Gary Storck
March 23, 2010
This is written in conjunction with a planned informational picket of the State Medical Society at 330 East Lakeside St. in Madison, just a mile and six tenths from the Capitol..
An Open Letter to the State Medical Society of Wisconsin Board from Gary Storck of Is My Medicine Legal YET? and Wisconsin NORML
Tuesday March 23, 2010, the Statewide Day of Prayer for Compassion for passage of medical cannabis legislation, is also the date of a meeting of the board of directors of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin (SMS).
The SMS, represented by Dr. Michael Miller, took an official position against AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, at a combined Senate/Assembly Health Committee Hearing on Dec. 15, 2009.
This position has been cited by some legislators as a reason to oppose the JRMMA. During testimony, Dr. Miller acknowledged the Society did not poll members before delivering an official position in opposition.
Meanwhile, at clinics around Wisconsin, doctors and other health care professionals are talking about medical cannabis with patients every day. Many concur that patients reporting medical use are benefiting and say they would be willing to fill out the paperwork to enroll their patients in a state medical cannabis program if they had that option, just like doctors in 14 other US states with 28% of US population. The AMA and the American College of Physicians have updated their positions to acknowledge that cannabis is medicine.
.
Dr. Miller’s obsession with the downside of smoking cannabis is only equaled by his willful ignorance of smoke-free vaporization. During the hearing, Dr. Miller even compared smoking cannabis to smoking crack cocaine! Yet he feigned unfamiliarity with vaporization while focusing on a pharmaceutical version of whole cannabis not yet approved for US use. Meanwhile, vaporization is the smoke-free delivery system patients in Wisconsin are already using today.
And while Dr. Miller focuses on the downside of smoking cannabis, Phase 2 clinical trials of “smoked marijuana” to treat neuropathic pain conducted by the University of California found “smoked marijuana” was significantly more effective than placebo. UC has also conducted other phase 2 trials of both smoked marijuana and vaporization. This is just one facet of research Dr. Miller says does not exist.
AB554/SB368, The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is something that Wisconsin veterans, seniors, sick, disabled and dying have been waiting for far too long.
The SMS board needs to pray on this thought: does Dr. Miller represent you? Is his flawed, misleading testimony something you want your name associated with? Is withholding medicine from Wisconsinites an honorable position for a medical society to take? Please stand with those in need by supporting AB554/SB368, The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act instead.
Guest Column: Erin Silbaugh: Jacki Rickert MMJ Act gives vets with service-related PTSD hope for normal lives
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Today's blog is a Guest OPED. The writer is Erin Silbaugh, a 26 year old ex-Marine who served 3 tours in Iraq. His service to our country left him with severe PTSD. Cannabis is a well-known treatment for PTSD that is both safe and effective. The JRMMA includes PTSD as a qualifying condition. Passing the JRMMA would help thousands and thousands of state vets forced to choose between toxic meds that harm the body or breaking the law to use what really works. How we can we tell those who served in war that their medicine is not legal yet or anytime soon?
Guest Column: Jacki Rickert MMJ Act gives vets with service-related PTSD hope for normal lives
By Erin Silbaugh-Sgt United States Marine Corps and OIF Veteran.
I recently got out of the Marine Corps, and was quickly diagnosed with “PTSD” from deployments in Iraq. I am under a program that is called individual unemployability, meaning it is nearly impossible for me to leave my house with out having extreme anxiety problems, a symptom of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Feeling hyper vigilant like I am about to get in a fight for my life, the adrenaline and the feeling you get when something really bad is going to happen, because you know it could. This affects my every day life.
I did 6 successful years in the Marines. I was discharged honorable as a Sergeant "E-5". I have had a long difficult road in my readjusting back into the place that I came from and went many miles to defend. I have tried many medicines, prescribed by the Veterans Affairs. All of which make me fall into a deep sleep. "it's the same medicine they prescribe me to sleep." I do not want to feel that way. I am currently taking a several medications from the Veterans Affairs hospital in Madison, WI. Seroquel, Clonazepam and Citalopram. These help my symptoms and control my thoughts, but there is a safer more efficient way to relieve symptoms along side my current medications to treat PTSD.
My conclusion in researching “PTSD” is that the stress, anxiety, outbursts of anger, sleep problems are relieved by many of us who suffer from this debilitating disorder by the use of Marijuana. I want to feel normal again.
I am a man that believes in his faith. And I don't want to be viewed as a criminal for using marijuana. I have been declared 100% disabled by the Veterans Affairs and Social Security. I have had several emergency room visits in Madison at the VA hospital.
I have always given my everything in doing the best job for my country, while serving in the Marines. I served 18+ months total in Iraq from Feb 2004-Apr 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in support of Operation Phantom Fury, Fallujah Iraq. During which we received daily mortar and Rocket Attacks. All hours of the day “i.e.” any time people gather to eat and just about every other time in between. I remember running for cover after a rocket exploded just ahead of where my platoon was walking. It killed 1 Marine and injured 2 others.
Another deployment was from Aug 2006-Mar 2007. This deployment I was medivac'd by helicopter from Camp Fallujah Iraq, 50 miles west of Baghdad to Ballad Iraq, 50 miles north of Baghdad. There I was in the ICU for a back injury I had received. There I saw many bad things, a bullet hole in the guy’s chest in the bed across from me. He had tubes draining the fluids. Fully awake in recovery he laid there. The other tube was coming out of his back to do the same. The nurse came every hour and drained the liquid.
I have a difficult time each day dealing with many “normal” situations. I just would like some help like me who are suffering and protect them from criminal prosecution, for seeking a safe medication that works. Many of my friends that are Veterans report that marijuana has helped them with their PTSD symptoms. Please help Wisconsin Residents who need this and PASS The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, Assembly Bill 554.
Contact your state legislators by calling 1-800-362-9472 to get in touch to pass this bill. -NOW!
Erin Silbaugh-Sgt United States Marine Corps and OIF Veteran.
As the days click down to the end of the 2009-2010 legislative session, only 38 remaining as of this writing, your help is very much needed to pass AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert, namesake of the JRMMA, is fond of saying, “Just Do Something” each and every day to help medical cannabis patients obtain their medicine legally.
Too hot for Wisconsin's two largest newspapers: Medical marijuana really about personal freedom
Posted by Gary storck
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Some days it seems as if the entire establishment in Wisconsin has united to suppress AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. Little news about the bill has made state news outlets since the public hearing in December.
The following letter was submitted to both the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and the Wisconsin State Journal. Neither paper accepted it for publication.
Here is the letter TOO HOT for the state's two largest papers!
Medical marijuana really about personal freedom
At the December medical marijuana hearing, Dr. Michael Miller, on behalf of the State Medical Society, obsessed on the dangers of "smoked marijuana", even likening it to smoking crack cocaine, while conveniently claiming to know little about vaporization, a smoke free alternative.
A 24-page report issued last week to the California State Legislature by California's Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) discussed a series of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials assessing the efficacy of inhaled marijuana which consistently found that cannabis holds therapeutic value comparable to conventional medications.
Several studies found benefit for neuropathic pain from "smoked marijuana". One concluded that "a significantly greater proportion of patients who smoked cannabis (52%) had a greater than 30% reduction in pain intensity compared to only 24% in the placebo group". CMCR noted "the threshold of a 30% reduction in pain intensity is associated with meaningful improvement in quality of life in other research on pain outcomes".
Regarding non-smoked alternatives for administration, UCSF Dr. Donald Abrams' study, "Vaporization as a 'Smokeless' Cannabis Delivery System," found that vaporization was a safe and effective mode of delivery. Two CMCR clinical trials are now in progress utilizing vaporization.
In a nation that prides itself as a beacon of freedom and liberty as well as having the best healthcare, shouldn't patients and doctors have the freedom to utilize cannabis as they now have the freedom to utilize treatments including chemotherapy, radiation, electroshock, morphine, Demerol, oxycontin, neurontin, Paxil, Prozac, Viagra, Ambien, steroids, Haldol, etc.?
Politicians love to get all misty-eyed talking about freedom when the cameras start rolling, but when it's about the freedom of the patient and doctor to be able to have cannabis as an option, many begin foaming at the mouth and speaking in tongues.
Medical cannabis is health care. Wisconsin's legislature needs to pull together and pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act at this moment in history. Decades have passed while Wisconsin's sick, disabled, dying, seniors and vets twisted in the wind while the issue has been stonewalled, and the result is only more pain and suffering. Wisconsin will pass a medical marijuana bill someday. Legislators need to listen to the people they profess to represent and get it done now, rather than cause their constituents more pain.
When I first began publishing this blog in March 2005, on the fledgling Madison NORML website, the chapter itself was a mere 6 months old.
The chapter, this blog and the Cannabis Movement in Wisconsin have all taken great strides forward. I've put the news out there with a little analysis, and have examined a lot of cannabis developments, from the tragic to the comic to the absurd.
And what indeed is more absurd than banning a plant that has compounds that bind to receptors in our bodies?
Like many of my life's cannabis milestone anniversaries, my earlier 2005 self truly believed that medical cannabis legislation would not still be spinning its wheels in 2010 in our legislature, awaiting profiles in courage by state legislators too accustomed to saying no.
I spent today lobbying with a young ex-Marine afflicted with PTSD after 3 tours in Iraq. How can any "elected representative" think twice about letting those who sacrificed so much not have the medicine that works best instead of pharmaceutical slavery to organ damaging toxic side effect ridden chemicals?
This blog has documented real progress in Wisconsin cannabis laws, despite the continuing legislative stalemate. Marijuana decriminalization has spread to many more locales in the state since 2005. Even staid Waukesha County, where overzealous prosecution had led to the suicide of a couple accused of medical marijuana cultivation a few years back, has initiated decriminalization for small amounts of cannabis and paraphernalia.
With decriminalization, possession of small amounts of cannabis is punishable by a fine, and is a civil citation and not a criminal matter. Patients using small amounts of cannabis in the safety of their homes are less likely to face major consequences, offering a little peace of mind to those who are extremely tired of looking over their shoulders.
I will keep pounding away at this blog as long as I am able. Hopefully, we'll soon see better news for patients than we've seen in the past.
IMMLY Announce Bulletin: Act now to help pass Jacki Rickert MMJ Act
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Below is an alert put out by IMMLY today.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
IMMLY Announce Bulletin: Act now to help pass Jacki Rickert MMJ Act
AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act remains in committee as sponsors attempt to assemble the votes to pass the bill. At the current time, while many Democratic Assembly representatives and Senators are ready to vote for the JRMMA, the problem is, so far, no Republican members have formally said they would vote for the bill.
As Democratic majorities in both houses are slim, the JRMMA needs supporters of both parties to pass the Legislature this session. We need to get the word out that the JRMMA is about compassion and that Wisconsinites deserve the same freedom to legally access medical cannabis as Americans in the 14 states that now allow this option.
As of today, we have 51 days until April 22, 2010, at which point the JRMMA's chance of passage will likely expire.
Gary Storck endures pain on a daily basis. Storck was born with Noonan's syndrome and has had multiple open-heart surgeries to address the heart problems that come with that condition. Storck also suffers from glaucoma, and his intraocular pressure often reaches 40, twice the highest limit of the normal range. In addition, he battles post-traumatic stress disorder. After only a brief inventory of Storck's medical background, one might expect him to curse the hand he was dealt.
But that is not how Storck views himself. "I consider myself a medical miracle," he said. "I can find relief for my glaucoma, heart conditions and anxiety all in one medication. I am living research."
The medication that Storck is speaking of is marijuana. And despite the relief that it offers him, Storck is technically committing a criminal act whenever he self-medicates with cannabis. That has the potential to change, however. Wisconsin Assembly bill 554 and Senate bill 368 are both pending in committee; the bills, identical in wording, would enable residents of the state suffering from serious medical conditions, including cancer, AIDS, Lou Gehrig's disease, glaucoma and other medical conditions that cause severe pain, seizures, wasting away and muscle spasms to possess and use marijuana for relief. People with these conditions would obtain a registry card with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, entitling them to possess up to three ounces for personal use.
A unique set of circumstances in Madison means that this bill has a slightly higher chance of passing into law. Democrats, who generally support medicinal marijuana use, have a majority in both the senate and assembly. Supporters of medicinal marijuana also have an ally in Governor Doyle, who has vowed to sign the bill into law if he is given the opportunity.
Locally, the bill has support from Platteville's representative in the Assembly, Democrat Phil Garthwaite. "For me the big issue is how people deal with pain," said Garthwaite. "We let doctors prescribe things far more dangerous than marijuana."
Platteville's representative in the state Senate, Republican Dale Schultz, could not be reached for comment regarding the bill.
In an e-mail correspondence, Thomas Caywood, chair of UW-Platteville's department of criminal justice, expressed his support for the measure. In response to state Attorney General Van Hollen's remarks that the bill would make things difficult for law enforcement trying to enforce current drug law, Caywood wrote, "Other states already have similar laws on the books. There are a number of medical benefits for prescribing marijuana. The most logical route would be to treat it just like other controlled drugs dispensed by a pharmacy only with a doctor's prescription."
And that is exactly what this bill would do. This bill is not a referendum on recreational drug use; this bill is a referendum on compassion for the sick. Every day, there are people who suffer debilitating conditions that make their lives a hellish existence. Who would deny them every available option to relieve their pain? Take a few minutes out of your day and let's make medicinal marijuana a legal and viable option for people suffering in Wisconsin. Call the legislative hot line at 1-800-362-9472 and express your support for the measures.
Madison NORML Examiner: The name behind Wisconsin’s Medical Marijuana Legislation: Who is Jacki Rickert? Part One
MADISON: Many people in Wisconsin are aware there is medical marijuana legislation now before the State Legislature. AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA) is sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee).
But just who is Jacki Rickert?
Jacki Rickert is a 58 year old Wisconsin grandmother and medical cannabis patient/activist and the Founder and Executive Director of Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY). Jacki discovered that cannabis provided unique relief for symptoms of the Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) she is afflicted with. EDS is a rare genetic disorder that attacks the body’s connective tissues. Jacki also suffers from another extremely painful condition, Advanced Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.
Jacki first began experiencing EDS symptoms like joint dislocations as an active teenager involved in gymnastics and training horses. Around 1981 Jacki met Dr. William E. Wright of Mondovi Wisconsin, a compassionate and courageous physician who diligently searched for treatments to alleviate her suffering. After Jacki asked if he would consider cannabis therapy, Dr. Wright consulted experts and immersed himself in the available literature. He concluded that it not only helped but was safer than "anything she was on including baby aspirin".
In 2001, Jacki described how she discovered cannabis helped:
As a result of having a chronic, intractable medical condition (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) that causes severe pain, joints that sublux, or dislocate, loss of muscle mass etc., someone suggested I try marijuana (Cannabis) to help lessen the pain, and muscle spasms.
At first, I dismissed such a thought- but later- when I could no longer handle the pain from a dislocated shoulder that the Dr. could not reduce, I tried it - this time it worked!
In 1989, Dr. Wright began filing paperwork with the requisite federal agencies to get Jacki into the federal government's Compassionate Investigative New Drug (IND) Program. Although federal red tape made the process very difficult literally every step of the way, Dr. Wright's persistence and heroic determination to help his patient finally paid off. In 1990 Jacki was approved for not only research but also compassionate use of medical cannabis by federal authorities. She was to receive 300 pre-rolled U.S. government supplied medical cannabis cigarettes, each weighing 0.9 gram every 28-30 days.
Jacki explained it in a 2001 email:
Years later, I was diagnosed with an advanced form of RSD. My weight plummeted to a mere 68 lbs. My body wracked with more problems, more pain, and massive muscle loss. My daughter literally carried me from my bed to the bathroom. No matter how much I tried, my limbs locked up like the tin man without his oil can.
At 68 lbs. my Physician applied to the Government for the Compassionate I.N.D. & Research I.N.D program, and WAS approved and granted a Schedule I License. He was APPROVED in Dec. of 1990...yet the contract was never honored.
The First Bush Administration later suspended and then closed the program, but Jacki had already been approved. Federal bureaucrats told Jacki her prescription would be filled once they had additional supplies, "as they were in the process of growing more material." A federal employee later confessed to Jacki, "I must tell you the truth about your medicine: We are not out, nor were we out, nor do I see us running out anytime in the foreeable future":
Jacki and her daughter even appealed to Bill Clinton as he and Al Gore made a campaign stop in Osseo Wisconsin in 1992. Jacki handed Clinton a large folder of federal approval documents which he vowed to read, "as soon as I get on that bus". More importantly, Clinton also told her as to her medicine nor being supplied, "Why that;s just terrible! If elected, I'll make sure within the first 90 days after taking office that's made right."
His HHS Secretary-designate UW Chancellor Donna Shalala promised before leaving Madison to help Jacki get her medicine. Once in Washington, Shalala flip-flopped against medical cannabis. Attempts by Jacki's Republican U.S. Congressman Steve Gunderson were also rebuffed. In 1993, tragedy struck when Dr. Wright suddenly died of a heart attack, and Jacki was back to square one in her quest for her medicine.
Jacki Rickert will be speaking at "A Grassroots Evening" Monday, Feb. 22, 2010 at the University of Wisconsin: Waukesha at 7pm in Room N133.
For more info: List of qualifying medical conditions included in the JRMMA. Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Hearing Recap & Action Alert. Report on Jan. 20 Mary Powers Memorial and JRMMA Lobby Day. For additional details on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, info on the Dec. 15, 2010 combined Health committee hearing, bill text and status, how to donate, all the latest news and how you can help, visit JRMMA.org, IMMLY.org or MadisonNORML.org. Visit my Madison NORML Examiner articles archive. Photos courtesy IMMLY/WI NORML and friends.
Full article with Links and photos. (http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-30194-Madison-NORML-Examiner~y2010m2d14-The-name-behind-Wisconsins-Medical-Marijuana-Legislation-Who-is-Jacki-Rickert-Part-One)
Gary Storck: Capital Times: PUB LTE: Tell legislators to pass medical marijuana act
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, February 12, 2010
Here's a let ter in today's Capital Times! As the letter notes, please Call or write your legislators regarding the JRMMA!
Source: Capital Times
Pubdate: February 12, 2010
Author: Gary Storck
TELL LEGISLATORS TO PASS MEDICAL MARIJUANA ACT
Dear Editor: The grass-roots advocacy campaign for medical marijuana in Wisconsin has ignited a firestorm of interest in how state government works. Thousands and thousands of state residents are learning for the first time who represents them because of the popularity of this issue.
A recent ABC news poll found that nationwide, 81 percent of Americans, and 75 percent of Republicans, want medical marijuana legalized.
The question remains, however, will our Legislature listen to the will of the people? To their credit, many state lawmakers have already signaled they will vote for the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. However, the lack of bipartisan support for a decidedly nonpartisan issue is sad.
In neighboring Minnesota, a bipartisan bill won legislative approval only to be vetoed by Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Here in Wisconsin, Gov. Jim Doyle has promised to sign a bill if it reaches his desk. Wisconsinites cannot let this historic time pass without our Legislature acting on behalf of Wisconsin's citizens. State lawmakers know how popular this issue is. They only need to look at their office constituent contact logs or recall all the personal conversations in support they've had with people of all backgrounds.
Medical marijuana affects us all. We must each work so this option is available if the unthinkable happens to a loved one, a friend or ourselves. If doctors are allowed to prescribe toxic medications and treatments with dangerous, even potentially lethal side effects, why can't they recommend a natural plant that has compounds which work by binding to receptors within our body's own endocannabinoid system? Please contact your lawmakers via the toll-free Legislative Hotline: 800-362-9472 and ask them to support this bill.
Gary Storck
director of communications, Is My Medicine Legal YET?
The timelessness of Wisconsin's out of touch state lawmakers
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Gov. Jim Doyle did not mention medical cannabis in his "State of the State" (SOTS) Address to a joint session of the state legislature Tuesday night. Medical cannabis supporters have had a presence at the SOTS dating back to the early 1990's when Tommy Thompson had only been governor 6 or 7 years, and we'll likely be there in 2011. Just as timeless as our presence at the SOTS is the lack of movement session after session after session.
Patients are looking to lawmakers to get it together and pass, This Bill, This Time! Let us hope they do not fail us again!
Sent to the Wausau Daily Herald 01/23/10. No confirmation or publication as of 01/26/10. -- GS
Six years ago today (1/23/04), I had a letter published in the Wausau Daily Herald, "Support medical marijuana bill," in which I noted that then-Rep. Gregg Underheim (R-Oshkosh), then chair of the Assembly Health Committee, planned to introduce medical marijuana legislation.
The letter contained this timeless passage, which sadly applies equally well today as it did in 2004: “Failing to pass this bill this session means that suffering Wisconsinites who can benefit from medicinal cannabis will have to continue to choose between breaking the law or going without and suffering needlessly for another two years. Many will not live that long; some will die today.”
Can anyone begin to comprehend how many people have died in Wisconsin just from multiple sclerosis in those six years? How about cancer, AIDS, muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer’s? This session we have a better bill, AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA), sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee). The JRMMA is named after a Wisconsin woman who was approved for a small federal medical marijuana program 20 years ago, but never supplied. Jacki led a 210-mile weeklong wheelchair “Journey for Justice” from Mondovi to the Capitol in Madison in 1997.
Wisconsin’s state motto is supposed to be “Forward”, but while patients in 14 other states now have this therapy legally available, our state seems to be stuck in something like that movie, “Groundhog Day”, but instead of Bill Murray, it's seriously ill patients like Jacki Rickert going to sleep thinking things might change, but instead waking up screaming in pain asking, “Is My Medicine Legal YET?”
Medical marijuana has long had overwhelming public support in Wisconsin. A new nationwide poll found not only 81% support, but also 75% among Republicans. While Rep. Underheim, a Republican, sponsored a bill six years ago, this session, not one Republican has yet announced support for the JRMMA. This can only mean that 75% of Wisconsin’s Republican lawmakers are at odds with the views of the people they claim to represent. Please contact your legislators and make sure they know that their support on the JRMMA means your support this fall. To find out who represents you visit Who Are My Legislators? http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx or call the Toll-free Legislative Hotline: 800-362-9472 (M-F 8:15a-4:45p).
Madison NORML Examiner: Wisconsin medical cannabis supporters go on the offensive
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 21, 2010
This was originally posted on my Madison NORML Examiner blog earlier today. You can view the original posting complete with pictures, links and video Click HERE.
MADISON: Hundreds of medical cannabis patients and supporters flocked to the Wisconsin State Capital for a Memorial for the late medical marijuana patient-activist Mary Powers, then visited their legislator’s offices to lobby for the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. Hundreds more emailed or called from home.
The Memorial brought a diverse group of Wisconsinites to the Capitol, and included music from Native American traditional singer and drummer, Al Baker and singer songwriter Rick Harris. Harris played his song, “Legal Medicine Blues”, that Jacki Rickert’s quiet heroism inspired him to write 9 years ago.. Baker’s beautiful and haunting singing and drumming moved many as it echoed about the Capitol.
Mary's family was in attendance, Medical marijuana patients Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck and Teresa Shepherd spoke, as well as Wisconsin Veterans for Medical Marijuana’s Charles Wachtel and Mary Powers’ care provider Sherry, who cared for Mary in her last months and was present when she passed.
Ignoring the pleas of people in pain is something very un-Wisconsinlike. Is our state’s motto not “Forward”? Medical marijuana will be passed some day. Making patients wait means that in the end, more people will have suffered and died in pain unnecessarily because of the bigotry and cowardice of a small handful of Luddites. How many more Memorial Days will it take for state legislators to wake up and listen?
If the JRMMA fails to move this session, constituents will expect lawmakers to explain why it did not happen or why they refused to support it, when they contact voters to ask for their support this fall. There is a collision coming. Legislators will be expected to justify the delay. The best way to avoid this certain collision is to do the right thing and move the JRMMA to passage now. For that to happen, state lawmakers need to find the political courage to listen and do what their constituents are asking, not what the State Medical Society is asking, not what the pharmaceutical lobby is demanding, and not what the Attorney general is spinning.
Wednesday’s historic gathering, the largest indoor medical cannabis event inside the Capitol ever, proved that advocates are not giving up. If anything, they are learning what it takes to finish a battle that has now been going on since the 1970’s in our state, and they are well aware of those who are the impediments to patients having legal access to their medicine.
View original posting with pictures, links and video RIGHT HERE.
The Lobby Day and Memorial was a success! Hundreds came to the Memorial for Mary Powers, then lobbied their reps.
Jim Miller had this letter published this morning in the Wisconsin state Journal in response to Tom "Weedman" Meyer.
Jim Miller: Explain marijuana’s use as a medicine
Wisconsin State Journal
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
A Sunday letter to the editor titled “Legalization could open the door to abuse” stated “Every teenager at odds with parents over the dangers of marijuana is aware of actions to legalize weed” and “The message they’re getting is that weed is safe and parents are wrong — again.”
The writer offers no solution other than to not pass a medical marijuana law in Wisconsin, as if that will keep kids from trying marijuana.
It seems that if there was a correct message for kids about medical marijuana, we should be giving it to them instead of sacrificing seriously ill and dying patients over our perceived inability to do so.
We recently legislated a medical marijuana law here in New Jersey. My late wife, Cheryl Miller, fought for medical marijuana rights until her death in 2003. Cheryl and Wisconsin’s own Jacki Rickert were like sisters.
New Jersey’s legislators rejected this same old smoke screen. They proved that they consider patient care a priority. I would hope that Wisconsin legislators will do the same and pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act in her honor rather than her memory.
IMMLY RELEASE: State Capitol Medical Marijuana Lobby Day and Patient Memorial Wednesday Jan. 20
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The long-awaited Patient Memorial and Lobby Day has finally arrived. All across Wisconsin, patients and supporters are making their way to Madison to talk to their lawmakers about the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act and ask for their vote. Below is IMMLY's press release.
Is My Medicine Legal YET?
www.IMMLY.org & www.JRMMA.org
For immediate release: Wednesday, January 20, 2010
State Capitol Medical Marijuana Lobby Day and Patient Memorial Wednesday Jan. 20
Mary Powers was a warrior. The wheelchair-bound disabled Army veteran spent the last years of her life battling not only cancer, AIDS and Hepatitis C, but also for her dream of legal access for patients like herself to the medicine that worked best for her - cannabis. Mary passed away quietly in her sleep on Oct. 22, her dream unfulfilled.
On Wed. Jan. 20, Mary's family, friends and supporters of Wisconsin's Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act will gather in the first floor rotunda of the State Capitol for a Memorial for Mary and other patients who ran out of time before legislation to protect them could be passed. Appearing at the Memorial will be Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Teresa Shepherd and other state advocates. In addition, Singer-songwriter Rick Harris will perform his Jacki Rickert-inspired song, "Legal Medicine Blues" and Members of the Great Lakes Ogichidaa Society will perform a traditional Native American ceremony in Mary's honor. The Memorial will be in the first floor rotunda, from 12pm-1pm. Immediately following, attendees will fan out to their legislators offices from 1pm-3pm.
New polling has found that 81% of Americans including 75% of Republicans now support legalizing medical marijuana. Medical marijuana legislation will be passed one day in Wisconsin, whether it is this session or some future one. What will be gained by continuing to ignore the will of the people? The JRMMA needs to passed in Jacki Rickert's honor, not her memory!
Hopefully those lawmakers who have doubts or who are having trouble finding the courage to support Wisconsinites in pain by saying they will vote for this bill will take note of the people who come to ask them to vote for it Wednesday; chronically ill, dying, vets, seniors, the disabled. Refusal to vote yes for the JRMMA is a slap in the face to numerous Wisconsinites who would benefit greatly.
Just as New Jersey lawmakers of both parties found the courage to pass medical marijuana in their state, so should Wisconsin legislators. To fail to take advantage of this opportunity to provide basic health care would be a serious dereliction of duty for a group seeking voters' favor this fall.
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is a Mondovi and Madison Wisconsin based grass roots patient and caregiver organization dedicated to advancing public education about the medicinal benefits of cannabis. For further information contact Jacki Rickert or Gary Storck at 608.241.8922 or visit the IMMLY websites at www.IMMLY.org and www.JRMMA.org.
Regarding a recent editorial, "GOOD NEWS: Headlines we'd like to see in 2010," my suggestion, published a year ago, remains the same: "Governor signs medical marijuana bill, Wisconsin becomes 15th state to protect patients using medicinal cannabis."
The Wisconsin Legislature now has before it AB554 and SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton and 15 cosponsors.
A combined Assembly and Senate Health Committee hearing in December lasted over eight hours. Only six parties, mostly special interests including the State Medical Society and the Attorney General's office, opposed the bill.
In contrast, over 100 individuals and organizations testified in favor, and more submitted in writing. Testimony came from patients, family members, doctors, nurses, clergy, the Wisconsin Nurses Association, AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, Hospice Organization and Palliative Experts and the Wisconsin American Civil Liberties Union.
This overwhelming weight of evidence that sends a strong message to state legislators: Pass the Medical Marijuana Act now!
People with serious medical conditions do not usually turn out in droves on cold winter days to share their medical histories with strangers, including hostile lawmakers such as Rep. Leah Vukmir R-Wauwatosa. The doubts of lawmakers and the fear mongering of the opposition must be rejected. This issue has overwhelming popular support, and Wisconsinites will not allow another session to go by without it being addressed.
Published Letter: Capital Times: On medical pot, Lazich should practice what she preaches
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
My latest letter in the Capital Times. A rersponse to a letter from the Senator published recently.
Source: Capital Times
Pubdate: Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Author: Gary Storck:
ON MEDICAL POT, LAZICH SHOULD PRACTICE WHAT SHE PREACHES
Dear Editor: State Sen. Mary Lazich, R-New Berlin, concluded a recent letter by stating, "Here's to less taxing and spending in 2010 in Wisconsin with far less fraud, government intervention, and regulation."
I'm confused. At the combined Assembly/Senate health committee hearings on Dec. 15 on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, I heard Lazich propose so much government intervention and regulation as to render the new proposal impotent! Her very attempts to sound reasonable while discussing the bill were fraudulent.
Patients in 13 states now have the choice of medical cannabis among potential treatments for debilitating conditions. Wisconsin does not. Lazich, unlike some other opponents such as Rep. Leah Vukmir, R-Wauwatosa, stuck around long enough to hear patients describe how medical cannabis has been of immeasurable benefit. She heard patients say over and over how conventional treatments had failed or were too harsh and the side effects too toxic.
Lazich owes it not only to her constituents but also to all Wisconsinites by virtue of her committee post to keep an open mind when considering this issue. She should abstain from voting if unwilling to give the 105 people who registered in support, compared to just six opponents representing special interests, the true weight their support deserves.
This is an election year. The overwhelming majority of Wisconsinites support protecting medical cannabis patients by passing the medical marijuana act intact. Voters should look for less toxic alternatives to politicians like Lazich this fall.
Gary Storck
communications director, Is My Medicine Legal YET?
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Below is my year end report for the "Madison NORML Examiner. Read the original here.
Storck and Rickert at JRMMA hearing.
Madison: 2009 was a historic year for Wisconsin medical cannabis advocates. For the first time in decades, after a change in Assembly leadership, medical cannabis legislation gained the backing of key state lawmakers in both chambers. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison), a sponsor of mmj bills dating back to the late 1990s, was joined by his colleague, Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee), in sponsoring AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. The bill also gained 13 Assembly and 2 Senate cosponsors.
Below are Madison NORML Examiner's "2009 Top 10 Wisconsin medical cannabis stories:"
#10) Thursday, Feb 26, 2009: US Attorney General Eric Holder: Ending Medical Cannabis Raids now US Policy. This event did not happen in Wisconsin, but it was one of many pieces of the puzzle that came together in 2009 to make the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act a viable bill.
#9) Sunday, June 7, 2009: State Capitol "Candlelight" Vigil for victims of Medical Marijuana Prohibition. On a Sunday evening in late Spring, nearly 50patients and supporters including Jacki Rickert gather for a "candlelight" vigil to hear speeches from Jacki, Mary Powers, Gary Storck and others. Singer-songwriter Rick Harris' performance of his song, "Legal Medicine Blues," inspired by Jacki Rickert, topped off a moving night of activism and rememberance.
#8) Summer 2009: Re-establishing Milwaukee NORML: Since the creation of a Milwaukee NORML Facebook group in 2008, momentum had been building for the formation of an official Milwaukee NORML chapter. Finally, after numerous stops and starts, became a reality in the Summer of 2009. However the group was disbanded due to internal problems in early 2010.
Wheelchair patients lead parade!
#7) Thurs.-Sun. October 1-4, 2009,The 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival, with a live bill in play, represented the pinnacle of the festival's steadily rising focus on passage of Wisconsin medical marijuana legislation over the last decade or so. IMMLY's 7th annual Friday night benefit at the Frequency was the best yet. On Sunday, thousands of medical marijuana activists, led by a half dozen patients in wheelchairs, turned out on a cold and windy day for the traditional parade up State St., around Capitol Square, to the State St. steps of the Capitol for a rally and concert by Baghdad Scuba Review. And despite the cold weather, hundreds lingered to listen to speeches from advocates like JRMMA namesake Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck. Mary Powers, NJ activiist Jim Miller, along with other state and national activists.
#6) Monday, April 5, 2009: Michigan implements MMJ program, putting legal maedical marijuana just across the Wisconsin-Michigan borders: "Five months after voters approved a ballot measure to allow people with "debilitating" illnesses and diseases to use marijuana, the state Monday begins taking applications for the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program." Read more.
#5) Wednesday, Oct 21, 2009:Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle supports JRMMA.Although he had been telling supporters he would sign a bill if it reached his desk since before his election in 2002, Gov. Jim Doyle went a step farther, providing yet another piece of the puzzle by telling reporters at a October 2009 Wausau appearance that withholding medical marijuana was "senseless" and that he supported currentr legislation and would sign it if passed.
Mary & Gary and Friends.
#4) April 23-October 7, 2009: Lobbying with Mary & Gary (and friends). On April 23, Wisconsin patient activists Mary Powers and Gary Storck begin a new grass roots lobbying campaign at the State Capitol. By mid-summer, the two are making weekly visits, supplemented by increasing numbers of other patients and supporters, and documenting the visits with video "Mary & Gary" shows. By early October, this campaign has contacted more than 80 of 132 lawmakers offices.
Mary's veteran flag at memorial.
#3) Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009: Passing of Mary Powers. The Wisconsin medical cannabis community was saddened by the abrupt passing of Mary Powers, after a long and heroic struggle with cancer, AIDS and Hepatitis C. Mary's devotion to the cause of legal medical cannabis in Wisconsin, despite knowing she would not live to see it passed, should inspire everyone, whether healthy or dealing with a medical conditionm to step up and in some way, do something try to fill the gigantic activist shoes Mary left empty when she left us Oct. 22.
11/16 Press Conference (WI Eye)
#2) Monday, November 16, 2009: Capitol press conference announcing introduction of Jacki Rickert MMJ Act: The Capitol and it's ornate Senate Parlor, adjacent to the Senate Chamber, have hosted a number of press conferences about imedical cannabis legislation over the years. On Nov. 16, 2009, there was a different feeling in the air because, for the first time in decades, a bill with powrrful support in both chambers with the support of WI Gov. Jim Doyle, was unveiled to great hopes and much press.
#1) Tuesday, December 15, 2009: Combined Public Health Committee Hearing on AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. Despite shrill attempts by opponents to distract committee members from focusing on medicinal benefits, one hundred five people including representatives of state health groups, health care professionals and most importantly, patients and family members, testified or registered in support with only five against, four of them special intesrest group paid lobbyists. Even more patients who were unable to make it to the Capitol submitted reams of written testimony. This historic hearing, standing room only on a bitterly cold winter day that followed a major snowstorm, demonstrated that Wisconsinites support medical cannabis, by an overwhelming margin.
An online poll by Wisconsin Eye, which videocast and archived both the press conference and hearing, ran an internet poll on Dec. 29 that registered support for passing medical marijuana in Wisconsin in the 95% or higher support range at publication time. Read a great late breaking "gloves-off" dissection of JRMMA opponents' behavior from the Fox Valley Scene, "Conservatives trot out tired stories at medical marijuana hearing".
Wisconsin: AB554/SB368 Hearing: Nurses, doctor support compassionate use
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Here is my latest Madison NORML Examiner article, which you can view the original version of, with photos here.
Wisconsin: AB554/SB368 Hearing: Nurses, doctor support compassionate use
Madison: At the Dec. 15 combined committee hearing on AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, support from health care professionals, particularly those who treat patients in real pain or represent professions that do, was strong. This was evident to those attending the hearing and to those viewing it on Wisconsin Eye.
Unfortunately, the representative of the Wisconsin State Medical Society (SMS), Dr. Michael Miller, an addiction specialist with a lucrative practice treating people involuntarily referred for counseling after detection of marijuana use, was not among those supporting the JRMMA Dec. 15.
But even Dr. Miller's on record opposition on behalf of the SMS to the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act was tempered by statements he made. As to "gateway drugs", Dr. Miller identified tobacco, a legal substance, as the number one gateway drug. He also acknowledged not only had SMS members not been polled as to whether they supported the JRMMA, but if they were, "you might get a lot of members saying yes".
Miller did not elaborate on why the Society did not poll members before sending him to oppose the JRMMA on their behalf. Miller also offered no indication why the SMS felt it appropriate to send a representative skilled in the area of addictions rather than one who might actually approach medical use from the benefits it could provide to patients with cancer, chronic pain, AIDS, multiple sclerosis or any of the debilitating conditions and treatments included in the JRMMA.
A little later, the committees heard from Dr. Michael Wolkomir of Barneveld, a Wisconsin board certified family medicine physician and State Medical Society member in practice since 1971. Dr. Wolkomir spoke in support of the JRMMA, describing how legal access to medical cannabis would benefit his patients.
Dr. Wolkomir testified that marijuana is "a useful adjutant medicine and safest for many problems". He further noted cannabis could help reduce the use of stronger opiates like Oxycontin, Vicodin and morphine if used in conjunction with milder analgesics. Dr. Wolkomir also termed Marinol and Sativex, “expensive and less complete agents inferior to the natural product”. He also noted he had practiced in Ontario Canada and cited positive findings of Canada’s COMPASS study on medical cannabis.
Karen Carrig, a nurse with HOPE of Wisconsin, touted the JRMMA and how it would help hospice workers by offering protection for patients and hospice staff, as well as offering a safe supply source. Education opportunities would allow more chances to speak about the use of vaporization, edibles, tinctures or other alternatives to smoking. She also acknowledged that some patients do not respond to narcotics or the side effects are intolerable, like nausea, vomiting, constipation, even hallucinations. Carrig explained that cannabis could also replace more dangerous medications for neuropathic pain, like methadone. She said hospice “would be intimately involved and look forward to” helping to implement the JRMMA by educating the treatment team, patients and families and utilizing cannabis as an adjunct to other legal therapies.
Gina Dennik-Champion, Executive Director of Wisconsin Nurses Association, testified that she has heard many stories of the benefits of medical cannabis from nurses directly involved in patient care. She testified that nurses don’t want to see patients in pain and if cannabis works so be it, patients should have legal protection. Dennik-Champion also urged the committees to expand the JRMMA’s list of those legally authorized to certify patients are undergoing debilitating medical condition or treatments to include nurse prescribers, who already prescribe a wide range of medications under state law. The WNA formally went on record supporting legal access and asking the governor and state lawmakers to pass medical marijuana legislation over a decade ago.
Below you will find a recap of the Dec. 15, 2009 combined committee hearing as well as an action alert on how to help pass the JRMMA. As always, visit JRMMA.org for the latest news and information.
MADISON: Support from hearing attendees was overwhelming, and media interest high, for the Dec. 15 combined committee hearing on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. The JRMMA, Assembly Bill 554/Senate Bill 368), is sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee). A sampling of coverage is linked from JRMMA.org. The entire 8 hour hearing can be viewed online on Wisconsin Eye.
Those arriving close to the hearings start time found the large hearing room standing room only, with attendees crowding hallways leading in to the hearing room.
The final tally for the day was 57 who attended registered in support, with only one registered against. 48 people testified in support, with only 5 against. Those five were Dr. Michael Miller, State Medical Society, Kevin St. John, Wisconsin DOJ on behalf of AG Van Hollen, Charles Wood, Wisconsin Narcotics Officer Association, Robert Block, State of Wisconsin Controlled Substances Board and the fifth was a private citizen.
While media focused on negative comments from Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa), The Medical Society's Dr. Michael Miller and other naysayers, eloquent testimony was heard from patient after patient who stayed long after the reporters left. It was a testimony itself to the toughness of this room of survivors that they came out on such a cold day and waited in pain long hours to testify. These stories of courage in the face of great adversity are emblematic of the Wisconsin spirit.
What comes next?
The two committees, the Assembly Committee on Public Health and the Senate Committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue must now deliberate and vote on the bills. Only when the bills are voted out of committee will the JRMMA move to the floor of each chamber, the Assembly and the Senate, for a floor vote.
What you can do:
Please call your representative and senator. If they already are sponsors or co-sponsors, please thank them. If they aren't, let them know you are disappointed and ask them to support compassionate medical marijuana policy. If you live in the district of any committee members, please contact them and ask that they vote for the JRMMA when the committee votes on the bill sometime after the holidays. Please contact IMMLY at immly@immly.org with any information on your contact with the legislator. We need to develop a network of calls and contacts to make sure legislators support this bill. We need to know who says they support it and who is against. Let us know about fence-sitters who may just need more info. This goes for both committee members as well as all lawmakers. If they are against, ask for reasons why. If you can provide any info on a lawmakers position whatsoever, please let IMMLY know at immly@immly.org
Here is a list of the committees and members:
Health Committees and Members from combined public hearing on JRMMA on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009 who must now debate JRMMA and vote on it in committee:
Two Letters supporting JRMMA in Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, Dec. 21, 2009
Below are two letters, one mine, published in Tuesday's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
US WI: PUB LTE: MEDICAL MARIJUANA It's about time
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Pubdate: 22 Dec 2009
Author: Gary Storck
MEDICAL MARIJUANA: IT'S ABOUT TIME
In saying patients testifying in support of medical marijuana are somehow willing dupes of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, isn't Capt. Charles Wood of the Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association really insinuating they are stupid (Opinions, Dec. 21)? Gov. Jim Doyle has said he'd sign the bill if it reached his desk. I can only imagine what Wood must think of him.
Are concerns about job security behind Wood's hurtful and condescending attitude? Could he be worried if more people learn, despite years of propaganda to the contrary, that cannabis is a safe and effective medicine, it might spontaneously trigger full-scale legalization?
Is this the best Wood has? Wisconsin patients have waited many years for the Legislature to take a serious look at this issue. As one born with a medical condition that has resulted in a lifetime of ill health, I salute Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) for listening and bringing forth the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
Those who traffic in fear, like Wood and Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa), must not be allowed to obscure that this bill is really about compassion. One hundred three people testified or registered in support. Only five testified against. If democracy still matters, the bill must be passed intact out of committee and sent for floor votes without delay. Our seniors, vets, sick, disabled and dying and those who care about them are counting on it.
---------------------
US WI: Help the patients
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Pubdate: 22 Dec 2009
Author: Brett Waite
HELP THE PATIENTS
As Wisconsin is debating passing a bill that would permit the use of medical marijuana, I can only hope that those against the bill stop for one moment and consider those of us who suffer.
This bill is about helping the sick, not about political posturing. The simple facts are that marijuana is a safe and effective treatment for many different ailments, and, therefore, its recommended distribution should be in the hands of doctors. It seems to me that all plants were put here for a reason. If the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn't determined it safe by now, then the agency never will.
So enough with the political debate. Let trained medical doctors determine when its use will benefit patients. This bill has nothing to do with the recreational use of marijuana and will not impact its use for recreation as some may argue.
Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association: NORML "A front for full legalization"
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, December 20, 2009
If it wasn't bad enough that NORML was attacked by a couple legislators and the Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association at the 12/15 JRMMA hearing, their lobbyist has now attacked us in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel! This is how bad they want to try to stop medical matijuana in Wisconsin, and everyone who cares should be disgusted by these attempts to deny the will of the people!
The Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association agrees with state Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa) that medical marijuana is a "facade."
Testimony that is based on science clearly shows that marijuana is a marginal painkiller at best, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not approve it, and if Wisconsin passes legislation, our laws would become contrary to federal law.
The parade of people with real medical concerns at the Madison hearing on Senate Bill 368 and Assembly Bill 554 was sad, because those backing this effort are using them to reach their goal of expanded legal marijuana use.
Behind the scene, NORML (National Organization for Reform of Marijuana Law) is driving the engine, and the sick as well as well-meaning lawmakers are being used.
Polls show Wisconsinites are behind medical marijuana, I suggest dropping the word medical and ask our citizenry if we want marijuana.
Make no mistake, this is a foot in the door. It is marijuana legislation, and it is not genuine to refer to it as medical.
Charles Wood
Vice president
Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association
Commander
Waukesha County Metropolitan Drug Unit
Waukesha
Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Hearing registers strong support
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009
Below is my latest article for Madison NORML Examiner. Read a slightlt prettier version here.
MADISON: Support from hearing attendees was overwhelming, and media interest high, for the Dec. 15 combined committee hearing on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. A sampling of coverage appears below.
Those arriving close to the 10 am scheduled start time found the large hearing room standing room only, with attendees crowding hallways leading in to the hearing room. All committee members were present except Sen. Ted Kanavas (R-Brookfield), last seen on Milwaukee television in a debate with bill sponsor Sen. Jon Erpenbach saying he was against the bill. According to his website, he was at a Town Hall meeting. Let us hope a constituent asked him why he was not at the Capitol representing them at this critical hearing.
The final tally for the day was 57 who attended registered in support, with only one registered against. 48 people testified in support, with only 5 against. Those five were Dr.Michael Miller, State Medical Society, Kevin St. John, Wisconsin DOJ on behalf of AG Van Hollen, Charles Wood, Wisconsin Narcotics Officer Association, Robert Block, State of Wisconsin Controlled Substances Board and the fifth was a private citizen.
Some headlines and articles focused on remarks by Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa) accusing bill sponsors Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) of using patients as a "façade" to push the complete legalization of marijuana in Wisconsin.
Rep. Leah Vukmir's claim at a public hearing drew boos and other derisive comments from many in the room packed with sick people in wheelchairs or walking with canes. Supporters say marijuana helps patients deal with diseases, cancer treatments and other ailments by relieving them of pain and nausea.
Vukmir, R-Wauwatosa, said there were no medical reasons to use marijuana and that other pain relief measures should be pursued that "do not require individuals to light a joint." She said once marijuana is legalized for medical uses, momentum will grow to make it available to everyone, as has happened elsewhere.
Predictable remarks in opposition by the aforementioned long time medical cannabis opponent Dr. Michael Miller, representing the State Medical Society also made it into various reports. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Patrick Marley included Vukmir's "façade" quote as well as this of Dr. Miller.
Michael Miller, a physician, told lawmakers the Wisconsin Medical Society opposed the bill because drug approvals should be based on science and left to the federal Food and Drug Administration.
"This is not the way to approve a new medicine," Miller said.
Marijuana is not a very strong painkiller, he said. Patients who need THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, to spur their appetite or combat nausea can get a prescription to Marinol, a synthetic version of the drug, he said.
The Journal Sentinel article also noted testimony from the office of Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen, who opposes the bill.
"Make no mistake, the marijuana possession permitted by the bill to a user or caregiver is illegal under federal law, with penalties of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000," Van Hollen said in written testimony to the committee.
Those charged with marijuana could more easily thwart prosecution in state court by claiming they had a medical condition, even if they were not on the state registry, Van Hollen said.
Southwestern Wisconsin's Vernon County Broadcaster weighed in on the proceedings and Vukmir's harsh behavior with an editorial, concluding the bill needs to be passed.
A claim in the legislature, Tuesday, that the fight for medical marijuana was a ploy to legalize the drug, was reactionary. This argument is about helping people who are ill — nothing more.
The state of Wisconsin should join the 13 other states in the nation that have allowed for the use of medical marijuana. There is no substitute for this medicine. The excuses for continuing to keep its medicinal use illegal are not compelling. -- “Medical marijuana should be allowed”, Dec. 16, 2009, Vernon County Broadcaster
WEAU, another Eau Claire tv staion aired a report with some surprisingly supportive comments from the Eau Claire County District Attorney.
Eau Claire District Attorney Rich White says he doesn't think allowing marijuana to be given legally with a prescription will affect his office's case load.
"We'll deal with the legal consequences but I believe they will be relatively minimal,” says White.
White says it's up to the medical experts to decide whether prescriptions for marijuana are safe.
"That's no different than any advance in science, or the development of a new prescription drug," says White.
Unfortunately, with expert testimony at the front end of the hearing, most or all of the press had departed long before testimony from individual patients and supporters had started, outside of IMMLY's Jacki Rickert and Gary Storck who testified with Rep. Pocan and Sen. Erpenbach.
Amazing testimony and revelation after revelation of heroic personal struggles with illness and the healing powers of cannabis followed. Heartbreaking personal stories of pain and even arrests were peppered among them.
These stories can be seen and heard on Wisconsin Eye, which broadcast the hearing in its entirety live and has it archived for future viewing on their website.
IMMLY Statement on Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act Hearings
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009
Posted on the eve of a very historic event in Wisconsin: two committees meeting to hear testimony on a medical marijuana bill, and dozens of patients expected to attend to support the bill. It should be a memorable day for our state!
Is My Medicine Legal YET?
www.IMMLY.org & www.JRMMA.org
For immediate release: Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009
IMMLY Statement on Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act Hearings
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is looking forward to hearing from the people this bill is about - patients - at the combined health committee hearing on Tuesday Dec. 15, 2009.
And while many patients will be able to attend and share how cannabis benefits them, we remind committee members to be mindful that what they see and hear Tuesday only represents the proverbial "tip of the iceberg".
For every patient that can make their particular painful journey to Room 412 East of the State Capitol at 10am, there will be thousands more who will be unable. Some are bedridden, others may be isolated or without a means of transit. Some are just too scared to even say the "M" word and would not consider breaking the law even to save their own life, even if begged by family.
And there are those patients for whom the hearing comes too late, like our dear friend Mary Powers, a disabled Army veteran and IMMLY board member who lobbied tirelessly for passage of Wisconsin medical cannabis legislation, lobbying Capitol offices up until two weeks before her death Oct. 22, at 50 from cancer, AIDS and Hepatitis C. Mary did whatever she could but died without legal access to the life-sustaining medicine she fought so hard for.
IMMLY's 2002 poll and another from 2005 established that 70-80% of Wisconsinites support legal access with a doctor's note. The people of our state understand they may need this medicine some day. Passing the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act intact correctly removes this issue from the realm of the criminal justice system and places it squarely back where it belongs, in the hands of patients and their physicians. Medical cannabis is healthcare.
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is a Mondovi and Madison Wisconsin based grass roots patient and caregiver organization dedicated to advancing public education about the medicinal benefits of cannabis. For further information contact Jacki Rickert at 715.926.4950 or Gary Storck at 608.241.8922 or visit the IMMLY websites at www.IMMLY.org and www.JRMMA.org.
Health committee combined hearing is Tuesday, Dec. 15 for Wisconsin's Jacki Rickert MMJ Act
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Below is my latest Examiner.com article.
MADISON: The Associated Press has now issued a correction of an erroneous report that went out Sunday stating next Tuesday's hearing was this Wednesday. The incorrect information was widely reported by numerous tv and radio stations, news websites and other sources.
The actual hearing date remains Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009 at 10am in Room 412 East of the Wisconsin State Capitol, The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (Assembly Bill 554/Senate Bill 368), is sponsored by Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison).
Wisconsin media continues heavy coverage of Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
Posted by Gary Storck
December 2, 2009
Below is a compilation of recent news articles about the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act. More are on the way.
MADISON: As support builds, Wisconsin media outlets continue to portray the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act in a favorable light. Patients are sharing their stories with reporters, resulting in some very moving personal stories of just how much cannabis can help people in our state who are suffering today
Below is a sampling of highlights from the last week.
On Wednesday Nov, 25, the day before Thanksgiving, The Capital Times published a 4000-word cover story by Cap Times reporter Steven Elbow that presented a very broad view of the issue, with many viewpoints represented.
(State Rep. Mark) Pocan says that with polls showing overwhelming support for medical marijuana in Wisconsin and wide support in neighboring states, Republicans have seen the writing on the wall.
"I'm sure they're hearing from their constituents," he says. "My guess is where they're used to just saying no, because that's kind of what they do when measures come up from Democrats, in this case I think they realize there's a real price back home to pay by just having an obstructionist agenda."
The article also explored the difficult choices faced by patients attempting to manage serious debilitating conditions, like MS patient Christine Harrington, whose husband was jailed for growing her medicine.
Crawford County District Attorney Tim Baxter didn't return calls for comment, but Christine Harrington says he was sensitive to her plight. Baxter agreed to a joint recommendation with John Harrington's attorney to hand him a light sentence that didn't include probation, allowing him to avoid potential prison time resulting from probation violations, which would have been a distinct possibility.
Having suffered drastic side effects from the steroid treatment prescribed by her physician -- including urinary, bladder, kidney and blood infections -- Christine Harrington says she has no intention to stop using marijuana, which she says alleviates her pain and nausea with no side effects.
Wisconsin's Gannett dailies also went directly to patients in seeking out how Wisconsinites might find relief through legal medical cannabis. Like other sources, they talked to patients already doing so already in spite of the law, simply because it works much better than standard toxic pharmaceuticals.
"If ( marijuana ) is going to help, I have to make a decision -- I don't use it and lose my job and go on disability, or do I take a risk here?" Chuck said.
"I can go from on the floor crying in pain to sitting relaxed in minutes with a minute amount of cannabis," said Chuck, who suffers from myotonic dystrophy, a disorder where the person suffers progressive muscle wasting. "I'm talking about two puffs."
If Dr. Gott is so wrong about cannabis, how can we trust his other advice? The proper prescription would be to attend next April's cannabis conference. Patients Out of Time ( see: www.medicalcannabis.com ) presents these conferences every two years. Mary Lynn Mathre, a nurse and the group's cofounder, is scheduled to be in Madison on Dec. 15 for the combined Health committee hearing on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
Dave Zweifel, the editor emeritus of The Capital Times, offered his own personal story of playing "cannabis angel", in this piece arguing that while medical should be an immediate priority, that it's time to legalize cannabis completely.
The time for Wisconsin to become the 15th state to allow patients to use pot to make their lives a bit more comfortable is long past due. My own father, who was suffering mightily from the pains of pancreatic cancer, found some relief from marijuana I was able to illegally purchase for him in the last weeks of his life.
That was more than 30 years ago and politicians still balk at allowing sick people the relief that marijuana can provide some of them. Hopefully, the Wisconsin Legislature will act quickly to legalize medical marijuana at the very least. Meanwhile the time has come for Congress to end the war on pot - period. We've got far better uses for all the money and resources.
Zweifel went on to talk about my medical use as noted in the Capitol press conference on Nov. 16.
Madison's Gary Storck, who has been pushing for decades to get the Legislature to legalize marijuana for medical purposes, put it bluntly the other day: "We're not criminals, we're just trying to get on with our lives."
Storck says he has been using marijuana since 1972 to treat his glaucoma and arthritis.
Some nice online commentary was provide on the website of Madisdon's weekly Isthmus, Isthmus.com, by columnist Emily Mills.
It’s ridiculous that pot has occupied the same class of dangerous drugs as LSD and heroin, and that penalties for possession and even small-scale grow operations have been so disproportionate. It’s even more ridiculous that our deeply ingrained and somewhat irrational fear of the stuff has led to such thorough stifling of important research—science that could help lead to a higher quality of life for those patients whose conditions would qualify them to use it.
Finally, The Scene, a Wisconsin monthly out of the Fox Valley, which devoted an entire issue to the First JRMMA in 2007, carried two articles about medical cannabis and the JRMMA in their Dec. 2009 edition.
"I cannot fathom the reluctance of my federal government to allow the use of medical cannabis for the sick and dying of the U.S.," (Federal patient Irvin) Rosenfeld said in a press release sent out to announce his world record. "My experience of use, the calming of my negative symptoms, that has allowed me to be a useful, contributing member of society must be extended to all the ill based on the judgment of medical professionals and not guided or restrained by the dictates of law enforcement who have no empathy for the ill nor the education to appropriately enter into doctor-patient relationships and treatment options."
Of the JRMMA, the Scene's Jim Lundstrom continued:
The Act has already drawn support from a number of state groups, including the Wisconsin Nurses Association, AIDS Resource Center of WI, Epilepsy Foundation of Southern WI, Hospice Organizations and Palliative Experts (HOPE), and the Wisconsin chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union.
"As Jacki has put it, 'This bill, this time'," Storck said. "I have never felt this level of support before. People are fed up with being forced to use toxic meds. A lot of folks have no insurance. We are tired of looking over our shoulders, and buying medicine from drug cartels instead of dispensaries or getting it from caregivers."
The Scene's second article's focus discussed the efforts of myself and Mary Powers.
Mary's last day of lobbying was Oct. 7.
"She was using an oxygen tank," Storck said. "I took her into (Senate Republican leader) Scott Fitzgerald's office to show them the face of medical marijuana, after his spokesperson, Kimber Leidl, issued statements saying 'the risks outweighed the benefits'."
Mary Powers died in her sleep Oct. 22.
He also discussed my survibal of a 1997 post-surgical infection and my outlook on the JRMMA's chances.
"And I vowed that day that I would use this extra time I was given to see that medical cannabis was finally legal in Wisconsin. It's looking like, with a little luck and the blessings of the cannabis angels, that those efforts will soon come to fruition. But, there is still a lot of work yet, and the people of Wisconsin need to make their 80% support heard. But from a very long view, we are very close to the Promised Land."
A nice touch at the articles end was "Key Points Of The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act". Read entire article at the link below.
For all the latest updates on the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act and how you can help, visit IMMLY and Madison NORML's website, JRMMA.org. JRMMA.org also has detailed information on attending and submitting testimony at the upcoming Combined Health Committee hearing on Dec. 15, 10am, Room 412 East at the State Capitol here in Madison.
OPED: Plain Talk: Time to end the war on pot - period
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, November 30, 2009
A very nice OPED from Dave Zweifel, editor emeritus of The Capital Times. He even cops to playing "cannabis angel" (my words, not his), to his dying father 30 years ago. Kudos to him and anyone else who has done so for having the courage and compassion to take such a risk to help a suffering loved one. It is unacceptable that a bad law puts people in such a position, and passing the JRMMA would put an end to it once for all.
Source: The Capital Times
Pubdate: Monday, November 30, 2009
Author: Dave Zweifel
PLAIN TALK: TIME TO END THE WAR ON POT - PERIOD
Momentum is building to legalize medical marijuana in Wisconsin. State Rep. Mark Pocan, a Madison Democrat, and state Sen. Jon Erpenbach, a Waunakee Democrat, have authored a bill that would make it legal for doctors to prescribe marijuana as a pain reliever for various injuries or illnesses. Gov. Jim Doyle has said he would sign the bill into law.
The time for Wisconsin to become the 15th state to allow patients to use pot to make their lives a bit more comfortable is long past due. My own father, who was suffering mightily from the pains of pancreatic cancer, found some relief from marijuana I was able to illegally purchase for him in the last weeks of his life.
That was more than 30 years ago and politicians still balk at allowing sick people the relief that marijuana can provide some of them. The Bush administration had a policy to arrest and prosecute folks using medical marijuana even in the states that have legalized it. Fortunately, the Obama administration has said it will cease doing that.
Madison's Gary Storck, who has been pushing for decades to get the Legislature to legalize marijuana for medical purposes, put it bluntly the other day: "We're not criminals, we're just trying to get on with our lives."
Storck says he has been using marijuana since 1972 to treat his glaucoma and arthritis.
In the latest edition of the Hightower Lowdown, editor Jim Hightower, the Texas gadfly, proclaimed that America's drug war is doing far more harm than marijuana itself ever will. He suggests that the nation would be better off legalizing all marijuana use.
Hightower insists that even the most conservative estimates say the outlay from taxpayers now tops $10 billion a year in direct spending just to catch, prosecute and incarcerate marijuana users and sellers. And that doesn't include the costs of militarizing the border with Mexico to stop pot imports. Even the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources this year asked deer hunters to look for pot growing in the woods so, presumably, wardens could go out and nab some farmers.
Some 41,000 Americans are in federal or state prisons right now on marijuana charges and that doesn't count the thousands more in city and county jails.
Plus thousands of law enforcement people are diverted from serious crimes to pursue someone smoking pot. That includes agents from the FBI, the Secret Service, Customs, and the Drug Enforcement Agency. Yet Congress refuses to change the long-outdated laws that cover the use of marijuana.
Hopefully, the Wisconsin Legislature will act quickly to legalize medical marijuana at the very least. Meanwhile the time has come for Congress to end the war on pot - period. We've got far better uses for all the money and resources.
Dave Zweifel is editor emeritus of The Capital Times. dzweifel@madison.com
Source: Wisconsin State Journal
Pubdate: 26 Nov 2009
Author: Gary Storck
DR. GOTT OUT OF DATE ON CANNABIS ADVICE
In a recent column, Dr. Peter Gott wrote that smoking cannabis causes health problems, even cancer, while admitting that he smokes tobacco, a proven carcinogen.
Dr. Donald Tashkin, a researcher at UCLA has been searching for the "smoking gun" since the 1970s. Tashkin's studies identified toxic compounds in cannabis smoke, and he published photomicrographs showing cannabis smoke damages cells lining the upper airways.
Yet in California in April 2008, at the National Clinical Conference on Cannabis Therapeutics, I heard Tashkin report his findings that smoking cannabis does not cause cancer.
Tashkin also discussed research on chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), finding that the more tobacco was smoked, the greater the rate of decline. In contrast, no matter how much marijuana was smoked, the rate of decline was similar to normal. Tashkin's conclusion is that his and other studies do not support the concept that regular smoking of marijuana leads to COPD.
If Dr. Gott is so wrong about cannabis, how can we trust his other advice? The proper prescription would be to attend next April's cannabis conference. Patients Out of Time (see: www.medicalcannabis.com ) presents these conferences every two years. Mary Lynn Mathre, a nurse and the group's co-founder, is scheduled to be in Madison on Dec. 15 for the combined Health committee hearing on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
Gary Storck, Madison, director of communications, Is My Medicine Legal YET?
Appleton Post Crescent: Editorial: Medical marijuana's time has come
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009
This editorial from the Appleton Post Crescent illustrates the consensus coming together that medical marijuana should be legalized now. Or, This bill, this time!
The tide is turning in favor of legalizing marijuana for medicinal use — and it's about time.
Studies have shown that cancer patients and those with other painful diseases, such as AIDS, can benefit from the substance, which stimulates appetite, reduces nausea and eases muscle spasms and pain. These patients shouldn't be criminalized for seeking relief for maladies hard to fathom unless you've been there.
Thirteen states have legalized medical marijuana and a dozen others, including Wisconsin, are considering it.
Though the idea has been floated in our state Legislature before, state Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and state Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, have introduced a bill that may have a chance this time.
It has firm parameters, such as creating a maximum amount of marijuana a patient may have, and the backing of Gov. Jim Doyle.
Doyle says he supports the bill as long as the users have a doctor's prescription. That safeguard, while not infallible, should assuage the fears that legalization for this specific purpose would open the floodgates to wholesale legalization.
The American Medical Association, once an ally of opponents to legalizing medical marijuana, recently reversed its policy that claimed marijuana had no benefits.
Meanwhile, President Barack Obama has made good on a promise to halt federal prosecutions of medical marijuana use where permitted by state law.
It's time to adopt a law that simply allows the use of small amounts of marijuana to cope with the effects of debilitating illness.
Wisconsin Legislative committees set to take another look at medical marijuana
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, November 22, 2009
As today is the 4th anniversary of Rep. Gregg Underheim's 2005 public hearing on his medical marijuana bill AB740, I thought I'd take a look back at that and other hearings I've attended over the years.
Madison: Medical marijuana has long been an issue in Wisconsin's legislature. A number of legislative hearings on the legalization of medical marijuana have been held over the years, and I have attended four, and submitted testimony at three of those.
On July 31, 1979, as a congenital glaucoma patient and a 24 year old college student, I traveled from my then-Milwaukee residence to Madison to attend a public hearing on the Therapeutic Cannabis Research Act. The first Federal IND patient, Robert Randall, testified about smoking 10 joints per day for glaucoma. The bill was not passed that session, but it came back the next, and was passed by large margins in both houses in 1981 and signed into law by then-Gov. Lee Sherman Dreyfus in April 1982. However, the law was quickly rendered symbolic when federal authorities refused to supply Wisconsin with their supplies of medical marijuana. You can watch a short video I made about the experience on YouTube, "Medical Cannabis in Wisconsin: Gary Storck talks of glaucoma and Wisconsin medical cannabis efforts".
After a long drought, medical cannabis returned to the Wisconsin legislature in the mid-1990's. A number of bills were introduced, all eventually dying in committee, without receiving a hearing. In the 2001 session, then-Rep. Rick Skindrud (R-Mt. Horeb),, a moderate Dane County Republican, convened an informational hearing of his Assembly State Affairs Committee on Tuesday April 10, 2001.
Testimony was limited to invited guests. Among those testifying was IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert. Jacki led off the hearing discussing her experiences and how medicinal cannabis has benefited her and helped her regain a little quality of life.
Others testifying included Dr. Michael Miller, representing the State Medical Society and speaking in opposition and Gina Dennik-Champion, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Nurses Association, testifying in favor. Also giving testimony were then-Rep. Frank Boyle (D-Superior), a longtime supporter, and then-Dane County Sheriff Gary Hamblin, a prostate cancer survivor.
Then-Rep. Gregg Underheim (R-Oshkosh) had become interested in medical cannabis in 2003, around the same time as myself accompanied by Jim Miller, visiting for Harvest Fest, stopped by his office and had a lengthy talk with a staffer about the issue. As Health Committee chair in 1997, Underheim had refused to hold a Health committee hearing on that session's bill, saying "It's not about medicine, it's about intoxication." That bill was sponsored by Frank Boyle and then-State Rep. Tammy Baldwin, now a U.S. Congressperson representing Madison.
But by 2003, Underheim was a cancer survivor himself. The following session, Underheim convened and chaired a public hearing of his Assembly Health Committee on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2005, the topic, AB740, his bill to legalize medical cannabis in Wisconsin.
Testimony was heard from IMMLY's Jacki Rickert and Gary Storck, WNA director Dennik-Champion, Federal patient Irv Rosenfeld and others. A number of other Wisconsin patients testified, including the late Mary Powers. A synopsis can be found in a blog post I wrote, "Recap of Nov. 22 Public Hearing for AB-740".
Unfortunately, Rep. Underheim never put AB740 to a committee vote, and patients who traveled long distances in pain and revealed personal medical information to hostile committee members never got the satisfaction of a up and down vote. He did not seek reelection the following term.
The fourth hearing was an informational hearing on Wed. Nov. 14, 2007. Sen. Jon Erpenbach, the Senate lead sponsor of this session's SB368, held a hearing of the Committee on Health, Human Services, Insurance and Job Creation that he chaired. Those invited to testify included IMMLY's Jacki Rickert and Gary Storck, Federal IND patient George McMahon, who flew in by private plane from Iowa, as well as two physicians who are experts in the field of medical cannabis, Dr. David Bearman, Wisconsin native now practicing in Santa Barbara California and Dr. Chris Fichtner, an Illinois doctor with very extensive credentials. Dr. Bearman also held a book signing and spoke at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine while in Madison. The UW Badger Herald covered the hearing with an article, "Senate hearing on medical marijuana turns emotional". The hearing is archived in video at Wisconsin Eye.
Long suffering Wisconsin patients and those who care about them are hoping that the State Capitol's next hearing on medical cannabis on Tuesday Dec. 15 at 10am is the charm, and that their testimony will convince state lawmakers that this session it needs to be, "This bill, this time!" For more information on how you can help pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, submit testimony at the hearing, read the bill test or donate, visit JRMMA.org, IMMLY.org or MadisonNORML.org.
JRMMA press conference generates flurry of WI media coverage
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, November 20, 2009
Below is an article I put together with highlights of some of the amazing media coverage of Monday's JRMMA press conference generated.
Madison: Wisconsin media responded to the Nov. 16 Capitol press conference announcing the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act with a flurry of coverage. News reports included widespread radio and television news coverage, articles on the internet, where it was also carried live and archived by Wisconsin Eye. In addition articles and supportive editorials appeared in a wide array of Wisconsin daily newspapers.
Madison's Wisconsin State Journal, the state's second largest daily, issued an editorial on Nov. 19, "Let Desperate Patients Have Pot". The editorial noted, "A doctor should be able to recommend marijuana to a Wisconsin cancer patient suffering from severe nausea, loss of appetite and pain. More than a dozen other states have legalized medical marijuana. Wisconsin should, too."
Wisconsin's Gannett Media dailies also came out editorially in favor of the JRMMA, sponsored by Senator Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison). In an editorial carried by many, if not all of the Gannett dailies around the state, "Time to legalize medical use of marijuana".
"The time is right for Wisconsin to act on legalizing marijuana for medical use. U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said recently that the Justice Department would not enforce federal drug laws in states that permit medicinal use of marijuana and Gov. Jim Doyle said he would sign the bill if passed by the legislature. The legislature should pass the bill. It makes no sense to ban a drug that has proven to be medically beneficial when physicians are legally prescribing more toxic and addictive drugs." (Oshkosh Northwestern, 11/19/09).
The Wausau Daily Herald published an identical piece, also on Nov. 19, as well as the Appleton Post Crescent, and likely the rest of the dozen plus papers in the chain in Wisconsin.
Stingl wrote, "It will seem strange at first to have marijuana sold in storefronts rather than alleys. But the product is more likely to be pure and safe, Erpenbach said. Doctors already can approve much stronger drugs, and this would be another form of medicine."
Also on Friday, an unexpected source, the online Milwaukee Biz Blog, carried a piece by Alan Gaudynski, a former Blue Cross & Blue Shield United of Wisconsin executive, "Legalize medical marijuana in Wisconsin"
Gaudynski, first noting he had undergone surgeries for health problems, continued, "Although I am not a marijuana user, I've read reports that people with certain types of cancers and other types of debilitating diseases find pain and anti-nausea relief when smoking marijuana. If we could devise a low cost way to deliver it to appropriate patients through prescription from a doctor, and purchased from a legal outlet, like a pharmacy, I am all in favor of it."
Channel 3000 video report on Jacki Rickert MMJ Act hearing
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Yesterday's Capitol press conference was a success at getting the word out to state media, with coverage statewide. Below is a nice report from Madison's Channel 9 (Channel 3000)
2 State Lawmakers Put Forward Medical Marijuana Bill
13 States Have Legalized Medical Marijuana
MADISON, Wis. -- Supporters of legalizing marijuana for medical purposes said on Monday the time is right to change the law in Wisconsin.
Two Democratic state lawmakers announced on Monday that a bill they are co-sponsoring to legalize medical marijuana will be the subject of a public hearing on Dec. 15.
The idea has been kicking around the state Capitol for years, but some said that they believe the momentum is there for passage next year, WISC-TV reported.
State Sen. Jon Erpenbach of Waunakee said he thinks there is enough support to get it passed. He and Assembly co-sponsor state Rep. Mark Pocan of Madison were joined by advocacy groups and patients who say using marijuana can help those ill with cancer regain their appetite and deal with pain from their diseases and treatments.
Under the new plan, called the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, people with certain diseases or medical conditions could legally grow 12 marijuana plants and possess three ounces of marijuana for medical use.
"We certainly are seeing a different landscape than we have in past years," Pocan said.
Thirteen states have legalized medical marijuana and Gov. Jim Doyle last month said he would support it if users have a doctor's prescription.
On the federal level, President Barack Obama favors less prosecution of it, according to bill proponents. Add in last year's passage of a Michigan referendum on legalizing medical marijuana, and advocates said that they're more hopeful than ever.
The legislation is named after Rickert, a wheelchair-bound medical marijuana user and advocate from Mondovi. She has been in a wheelchair for 15 years in a wheelchair suffering from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and other problems.
"I've seen so much different change this time around that people seem to have hope ...you can lose a lot from your body, but when something's taken from your spirit, that's one of the hardest things," she said.
Rickert said the new proposed named after her is giving her and other supporters new hope.
She said "cannabis angels" mysteriously show up and give her marijuana that lets her keep her weight up and cut her morphine use in half.
Backers of the bill said the measure is about compassionate care when other legal painkillers don't do the trick.
"Medical marijuana, for some people ... is the best way they can find any sort of relief," said Erpenbach.
The measure might face some opposition from law enforcement and some Republican state lawmakers. However, even some conservatives like state Sen. Glenn Grothman of West Bend are mulling over a "yes" vote.
Grothman said he hasn't made up his mind yet, but is inclined to vote for it unless someone gives him "a good reason not to".
"It wouldn't shock me if I vote for it," Grothman said.
A joint committee hearing will be held on the plan next month. The proposal requires people with a doctor's prescription to register with the state before growing up to 12 marijuana plants or going to state regulated dispensaries.
Some lawmakers said that they want to know if law enforcement believes medical marijuana would increase illegal pot use.
A spokesman for the Madison Police Department said it doesn't have a stance on the issue.
IMMLY Press Release: “This Bill, This Time!”: Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act A Step Forward For Wisconsinites In Pain
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Wisconsin medical cannabis supporters are elated as the hours count down to a Wisconsin State Capitol press conference at 11:30am Monday in the Senate Parlor, with bill sponsors Rep. Mark Pocan and Sen. Jon Erpenbach speaking, along with Jacki Rickert and myself.
Is My Medicine Legal YET?
www.IMMLY.org & www.JRMMA.org
For immediate release: November 16, 2009
“THIS BILL, THIS TIME!”: JACKI RICKERT MEDICAL MARIJUANA ACT A STEP FORWARD FOR WISCONSINITES IN PAIN
Madison & Mondovi: With Wisconsin’s Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act AB554/SB368 set to be rolled out at a State Capitol press conference Monday morning, IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert and IMMLY director of Communications Gary Storck, both longtime medical cannabis patient-activists, have each issued statements:
Jacki Rickert – “I would like to quote a line from a song my friend Rick Harris wrote called ‘Legal Medicine Blues’, ‘I never wanted to break the law but I hurt too bad to pretend’. Well, I stopped pretending years ago, before most current legislators were first elected. I am so happy that after so many years, we have reached the point where the cannabis therapy my late doctor William Wright worked so hard to get approved for me seems within reach. It’s tragic so many did not even make it to today, like our friend Mary Powers, who spent her last months in this building asking legislators to pass this bill. For many medical marijuana patients there will be no more do-overs. This bill, this time!”
Gary Storck – “I stumbled upon medical cannabis in 1972 as a means to save my remaining vision from severe congenital glaucoma. After decades of working to see this therapy relegalized and enduring many dark years with no hope that this medicine might be legal for patients like Jacki and me, I now feel that all of that is about to change, and Wisconsinites will soon be free to utilize medical cannabis again. Rep. Pocan and Sen. Erpenbach are true public servants for listening to the people and giving hope this can be resolved and that compassion might no longer be a crime.”
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is a Mondovi and Madison Wisconsin based grass roots patient and caregiver organization dedicated to advancing public education about the medicinal benefits of cannabis. For further information contact Jacki Rickert at 715.926.4950 or Gary Storck at 608.241.8922 or visit the IMMLY websites at www.IMMLY.org and www.JRMMA.org.
New website JRMMA.org offers full info on Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, November 6, 2009
I have just put up http://jrmma.org/, the official site of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. It is your one stop source for everything you need to help pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, and will be frequently be updated as the bill progresses through the Wisconsin Legislature.
Source: Capital Times
Pubdate: Thursday, October 29, 2009
Author: Gary Storck
GARY STORCK: TIME IS RIGHT FOR STATE TO OK MEDICAL MARIJUANA
Thanks to the efforts of Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, Wisconsin's Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is finally out of the gates and on its way to introduction in the Wisconsin Legislature.
The proposal is a comprehensive medical marijuana bill based on the law Michigan voters passed with a majority in every county in November 2008. It would cover the same debilitating conditions as Michigan does, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD is a major complaint of veterans returning from the Afghan and Iraq wars. Cannabis has long been known as a remedy for PTSD that helps victims of war and other trauma get on with their lives.
Last week's action by the Obama administration in setting new policy that exempts state medical marijuana programs from federal interference is just another piece of the puzzle coming together to bring this critical health care bill to the people of Wisconsin. Gov. Jim Doyle's remarks Oct. 21 in Wausau that keeping medical cannabis from patients who can benefit is "senseless" is another sign that Wisconsin is ready to do the right thing for our state's veterans, seniors, sick, dying and disabled for whom medical cannabis might be an option.
While Wisconsin patients await legislative action, some will not live long enough to see the Rickert measure become law. One such person was my dear friend Mary Powers, a wheelchair-bound Army veteran; a cancer, AIDS and hepatitis patient; and a medical cannabis activist.
For the last five years, Mary and I visited the Capitol numerous times to lobby for medical cannabis. Cannabis clearly helped Mary, slowing the progression of her cancer and helping her with the side effects of medications and endless chemo and radiation treatments. Cannabis therapy allowed her to twice testify before legislative hearings. This year, as the legislation was coming together, Mary and I instituted weekly Capitol visits. By the end of the summer, we had visited over 80 offices, and Mary and her wheelchair became a familiar figure in the Capitol.
Mary ran out of time on Thursday, Oct. 22, passing away peacefully at home. The legislation came too late for her. Although she served her country, she was forced to break the law to obtain the only medicine that treated all her symptoms and naturally elevated her mood as she struggled with multiple medical conditions, medication and treatment side effects, unending doctor visits, and way too many hours in ER and clinic waiting rooms.
We can't turn back the clock and give Mary her medicine legally, but we can protect the other "Marys" still with us.
As Jacki Rickert, namesake of the bill, has said, "This bill this time." Thirteen states comprising 25 percent of the U.S. population now protect their sick and dying using medical cannabis. It's time for medical cannabis in Wisconsin. Please help make it a reality for our veterans, seniors, sick, dying and disabled.
Gary Storck of Madison is director of communications for Is My Medicine Legal YET? www.immly.org
OPED: Sen. Jon Erpenbach D-WaunakeeTime to consider medical marijuana
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, October 26, 2009
An OPED about the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act from the JRMMMA's Senate sponsor, Sen. Jon Erpenbach.
Source: Monroe Times
Pubdate: Saturday, October 24, 2009
Author: Sen. Jon Erpenbach D-Waunakee
SEN. JON ERPENBACH: TIME TO CONSIDER MEDICAL MARIJUANA
To see a loved one or friend in pain and to watch them struggle at the end of their life or from harsh treatments like chemotherapy is terrible. You watch the person you love disappear. To find peace and free them of pain is all that you hope for; for some people that relief could come as prescribed medical marijuana.
With all of the extraordinary advances of medicine and all of the life-saving techniques we have, sometimes relief can be as simple as marijuana - currently a regulated illegal drug in Wisconsin. I am co-authoring the Jackie Rickert Medical Marijuana Act this session in the hope that this medical option can be available to all Wisconsin patients who need it. Drafted based on the Michigan medical marijuana bill that passed by statewide referendum, this bill simply gives patients and their doctors an option to consider marijuana without fear of prosecution. The Michigan referendum passed in all 83 counties, with a 63 percent majority statewide.
This is an issue where the public has been far ahead of policy makers. Polling in Wisconsin has shown consistent support for medical marijuana, most recently reaching above 75 percent approval. In the seven states where medical marijuana was added as a ballot initiative, it passed in each state with a wide margin. As we work to address comprehensive health care reform, consideration should be given to the benefits of medical marijuana for patients with a debilitating medical condition.
The bill provides a medical necessity defense for marijuana-related prosecutions and property seizure if the patient has a valid prescription from their physician and an ID card from Department of Health Services. Conditions covered could include cancer, glaucoma, AIDS and HIV, and diseases as determined by administrative rule. The bill also creates a maximum amount of marijuana a patient may have, establishing clear limits for both the patient and law enforcement. If someone who is prescribed marijuana commits a crime, like operating a vehicle under the influence, they cannot use the defense created in this bill; they still have to follow Wisconsin laws. Finally, the bill gives the state Department of Health the ability to create rules for a registry of people allowed to use medical marijuana and for the licensing and regulation of a nonprofit corporation to distribute marijuana.
Recently, President Obama said that the federal law enforcement will follow the laws of the states regarding medical marijuana. Currently, there are 13 states where medical marijuana is legal and another 14 states where legislation is pending. Clearly the public pendulum on this issue is in support. That support, however, is not the only reason why the Wisconsin Legislature should act to make medical marijuana legal; we should act because it is simply the right thing to do for patients in pain.
Our friends and family deserve all medicinal options available when they struggle with disease and the therapy we have created to kill disease. Please contact my office for additional information on the Jackie Rickert Medical Marijuana Act at (888) 549-0027 or (608) 266-6670 or via e-mail at sen.erpenbach@legis.wi.gov.
- Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, serves the 27th Senate District.
RIP Mary Powers, 1959-2009: A Wisconsin Medical Cannabis Hero
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, October 24, 2009
With her family notified, I can now report that my dear friend Mary Powers, a disabled US Army veteran, and medical cannabis patient/lobbyist extraordinaire, passed on peacefully at home last night. Mary was a true hero who tirelessly lobbied for medical cannabis for WI patients even as her cancer, AIDS and Hepatitis C progressed and ended her life. Mary knew the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act would not be passed in her lifetime, but heroically devoted the little time she had left to lobby week after week. Fortunately many of her exploits are memorialized in 7 episodes of the Mary and Gary Show and an episode of the Mary and Jacki Show. Watch all 8 below!
Mary at the Vigil at the Capitol on June 7, 2009.
Mary was also the Secretary of Madison NORML and a board member. Mary was known for attending every meeting, whether she had chemo or radiation that day or how bad she felt. Mary's mission. Her humor and compassion made her a beloved friend of many, and all who met her were touched by her spirit. She was also the founder, executive director and legislative director of the Wisconsin chapter of Veterans for Medical Marijuana Access (VMMA). Unfortunately, she had only just started and had so far been unable to find other veterans to join her in building the group. We certainly hope some WI veterans will step forward to complete her mission, in light of the important aspects for vets in the JRMMA..
The Mary and Jacki Show. This was the last time Mary spoke, and her last Harvest Fest speech, from Sun. 10/04/09.
Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act: Where we are at
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, October 23, 2009
The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act has had a great week, with the new Obama Administration policy on state medical cannabis programs announced on Monday and Gov. Doyle's widely reported support of medical marijuana on Wednesday. Below is an update on where things are and where they are headed next.
Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act: Where we are at
Oct. 22, cosponsorship closed at 5pm
What happens next?
The bill will be sent to the Assembly Clerk’s office for introduction and a bill number, and the Assembly Speaker will then assign it to a committee.
What supporters can do:
Please continue to contact your Wisconsin State Assembly Representatives and State Senators and ask that they vote for the JRMMA if it is assigned to their committee, and when it gets a floor vote.
WRITE: Send pre-written, editable letter to Legislators: http://capwiz.com/norml2/issues/alert/?alertid=14115736
or http://bit.ly/JRMMA
Call, Call, Call:
Toll-free Legislative Hotline: 1-800-362-9472
Who Are My Legislators? http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx
Get Involved and Donate Your Time or Money:
Spread The Word: Updated Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act Fliers: http://bit.ly/JRMMAfliers
Meet: Madison NORML: 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7pm see: MadisonNORML.org or WINORML.org for more info on location. Milwaukee Area NORML: Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays: See WINORML.org for more info.
DONATE: Any donation over $12 will get a free Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act pin. Any donation over $50 will get a free shirt.
Or send a check or money order to Madison NORML, PO Box 3132, Madison, WI 53704-0132.
More info: IMMLY.org - WINORML.org - MadisonNORML.org
Shepherd-Express: Medical Marijuana Advocates Won't Wait
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, October 22, 2009
A great article from Lisa Kaiser and Milwaukee's Shepherd-Express!
Source: Shepherd-Express
Pubdate: Oct. 22, 2009
Author: Lisa Kaiser
News & Views » Page 7
MEDICAL MARIJUANA ADVOCATES WON'T WAIT
Wisconsin could legalize pot for chronically ill people
In November 2008, 63% of Michigan voters made medical marijuana legal in that state-a significant victory, when you consider that the ballot measure won in each and every county and generated more support than Barack Obama.
More tellingly, that robust majority of voters approved a measure that the Michigan Legislature had previously rejected.
Since the program's implementation this spring, more than 6,000 Michigan residents have signed up for the program, either as a patient or a caregiver. Patients obtain a recommendation from their doctor, pay $100 (or $25, if the patient lives below the poverty line) for a state-issued ID card, and can purchase marijuana from a state-licensed dealer or grow his or her own plants (up to 12 per patient).
Tim Beck, head of the Michigan chapter of Americans for Safe Access, said that there's been no "reefer madness"-style chaos or corruption of kids. Instead, the program has allowed seriously ill Michigan residents to safely access medicine that had formerly been driven underground.
"It has been a godsend," Beck said.
The People Are Ahead of Their Politicians
Wisconsin residents, though, aren't that fortunate, even though credible polling shows that 80% support implementing a medical marijuana program in this state.
"It's more popular than any politician," said Gary Storck, president of the state chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).
But Wisconsin voters don't have the ability to enact a medical marijuana law via a voter referendum, as Michigan residents did. That can be done at the local level, creating a patchwork of programs. Or an advisory referendum can be placed on a statewide ballot, but that would not necessarily lead to legislation.
Wisconsin voters can approve amendments to the state Constitu tion, however, but that would require having the question approved by two consecutive sessions of the state Legislature before it could be put on the ballot.
Storck said seriously or terminally ill patients who need immediate relief can't wait another two years.
"They just don't have that time," he said. That's why medical marijuana advocates are pushing hard for the passage of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, sponsored by state Rep. Mark Pocan (D- Madison) in the state Assembly and state Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) in the state Senate.
The legislation is based on Michigan's model, and would strictly regulate who could legally obtain or provide medical marijuana within the state. Patients with debilitating medical conditions-such as cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, AIDS or HIV, seizures, severe pain or nausea- could participate in the program with a doctor's approval and payment of up to $150 for the state registry and an ID card.
"I've heard from people in my district and around the state that when they are dealing with their cancer or MS or glaucoma, the only bit of relief that they find from their chemo or their illness is marijuana," said Erpenbach, who chairs the Senate Health Committee. "It's something the medical community is a little mixed on, but [medical marijuana] helps to ease the pain, and the state shouldn't stand in the way or make someone a criminal if they're looking to it for medical reasons."
Despite strong public support, previous versions of the bill have died in committee, and were opposed by the Wisconsin Medical Society and the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association (but supported by the Wisconsin Nurses Association). "This is one of those issues where the people are clearly way ahead of their legislators," Pocan said.
Advocates are hoping that with Democrats controlling both houses of the Legislature and the governor's office, they'll get more support than they did when Republicans controlled at least one house of the state Legislature.
Jeff Peterson, head of the Milwaukee area chapter of NORML, said state lawmakers must pass this bill simply because it's the humane thing to do for seriously ill people with chronic pain.
"I have great anger that people are being denied the use of something that could help them," Peterson said.
A Green Economy
While Wisconsin doesn't have a medical marijuana law on the books it falls further behind popular opinion and advanced programs in other states. Even the Obama administration announced that it would respect state laws regarding medical marijuana. Attorney General Eric Holder announced that the administration would stop using federal resources to prosecute seriously ill patients and their caregivers.
Fourteen states have legal, regulated medical marijuana programs, and advocates in another dozen are trying to launch programs. California voters were the first in the nation to approve medical marijuana, in 1996, with 56% support. Voter initiatives then passed in Alaska, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, while programs were approved by state lawmakers in Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, Rhode Island and Vermont. The legislative measures, like the voter referendums, usually win by a wide margin.
California, not surprisingly, has the most developed medical marijuana program, with an estimated 400,000 patients, and a flourishing "cannabusiness" that includes 2,100 dispensaries, co-ops, clinics and delivery services.
California medical marijuana patients can choose from specific strains of pot that are best able to address their illness, as well as cannabis-infused pastry, cooking oil, skin cream, soap, lozenges, lollipops, capsules and tinctures.
"It's a good, green business that provides jobs," NORML's Storck said.
Now comfortable with the program, California residents and lawmakers are moving toward making medical marijuana part of the state's economy.
After approval by 80% of city voters, Oakland now taxes sales of marijuana at dispensaries, which will bring in an estimated $400,000 to $500,000 in its first year.
There's also a proposal to tax marijuana throughout California, much like it taxes alcohol, which would generate up to $1.3 billion in taxes annually for that cashstrapped state.
In fact, when you crunch the numbers, legalization and taxation of marijuana makes sense during an economic downturn. Legalization of pot nationwide would generate about $7 billion in taxes and decrease law enforcement costs by $13.5 billion, according to Harvard economist Jeffrey Miron.
While Congress is unlikely to decriminalize marijuana anytime soon, the voters seem to be in favor of it. A Zogby poll of voters in May found that 52% supported treating marijuana as a legal, taxed, regulated substance, with 37% opposed.
While Wisconsin may be a long way from legalizing pot for all adults, Erpenbach said he is hopeful about the medical marijuana bill's prospects in the state Legislature.
"The people of this state are compassionate," Erpenbach said.
IMMLY RELEASE: New Federal Guidelines On State Medical Marijuana Programs Clears Way For Jacki Rickert Mmj Act In Wisconsin
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, October 19, 2009
Below is IMMLY's press release regarding the historic change in federal policy towards state medical cannabis programs by the Obama Administration.
For immediate release: Monday, October 19, 2009
NEW FEDERAL GUIDELINES ON STATE MEDICAL MARIJUANA PROGRAMS CLEARS WAY FOR JACKI RICKERT MMJ ACT IN WISCONSIN
The Obama Administration's historic, newly announced "hands-off" policy on state medical marijuana programs is another reason to pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA) in Wisconsin's legislature this session. These new USDOJ guidelines combined with an earlier US Supreme Court decision rejecting a challenge to state mmj laws have erased federal interference as a threat to state medical cannabis programs.
This decision should be more reason for state lawmakers to join bill sponsors Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) in cosponsoring the JRMMA, which is pending introduction.
IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert, namesake of the JRMMA, had this to say, "I'm still in shock. President Obama obviously understands that prosecuting medical cannabis patients and providers acting legally under state laws should not be a federal law enforcement priority. State lawmakers should recognize that the conflict with federal law is no longer an issue, and move quickly to protect Wisconsin patients who can benefit."
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is a Mondovi and Madison based grass roots patient and caregiver based organization dedicated to advancing public education about the medicinal benefits of marijuana. For further information contact Jacki Rickert at 715.926.4950 or Gary Storck at 608.241.8922 or visit the IMMLY website at www.immly.org.
Ask your Wisconsin State Legislators to Cosponsor the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act: Deadline is 5pm Thursday Oct. 22!
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Next Thursday at 5:00pm is the deadline for Wisconsin State Legislators to cosponsor Rep. Mark Pocan and Sen. Jon Erpenbach's LRB 2517, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. While polling finds overwhelming support among state residents, this support must be conveyed to State Assembly Representatives and State Senators for the support to have an impact. Please take a few moments today to send a message and or make a call so Wisconsin's sick and dying have legal access to medical cannabis like the people of 13 other US states including our neighbors in Michigan.
Ask your Wisconsin State Legislators to Cosponsor the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act: Deadline is 5pm Thursday Oct. 22!
The deadline for Wisconsin State Assembly Representatives and State Senators to sign on to the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA) is fast approaching! Now is the time to contact them and ask them to do so.
It is important that the JRMMA be introduced with strong legislative support. While an overwhelming majority of state residents support legal access to medical cannabis with their doctor's support, the legislature needs to catch up, and the only way they will do that is by hearing from their constituents.
Please help pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act! Your efforts now will help sick and dying patients who can benefit. Please be a voice for people in pain by making a call and sending a message TODAY!
Wisconsin Public Radio: Wisconsin Medical marijuana bill proposed; based on Michigan law
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, October 12, 2009
Here is a report from WI Public Radio regarding the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act.
Wisconsin Medical marijuana bill proposed; based on Michigan law
Source: Fox 21 click here
Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:39pm
By Brian Bull, Wisconsin Public Radio
MADISON (WPR) New legislation for legalizing medical marijuana is being drafted in the Wisconsin legislature. Sponsors say this latest bill will be based on a medical cannabis law recently approved by Michigan voters.
Last year, about two-thirds of Michigan voters approved the legalization of marijuana for severely ill patients. That inspired State Representative Mark Pocan and State Senator Jon Erpenbach to push – again-- for legalized medical marijuana in Wisconsin. Erpenbach says Michigan’s law gives credibility to their cause. Erpenbach says the proposal will be tailored to Wisconsin, with a doctor’s prescription needed. A non-profit corporation has also been proposed to dispense and distribute marijuana.
The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is named for a 58-year-old Mondovi resident with several chronic ailments affecting her bones and joints. Jacki Rickert says she’s been on cannabis therapy since the 1990s, and it’s helped her endure both pain and nausea. At first, Rickert says her daughter carried her from room to room and she was told, “If we don’t get weight on you, you will die”. Rickert, who once weighed 68 pounds is now up to 94 pounds.
The bill also now includes PTSD as a qualifying condition. If passed, Wisconsin would become the 14th state to legalize medical marijuana. Opponents say patients are best helped with tested and approved drugs that are already legal.
--
Information from Wisconsin Public Radio, www.wpr.org
Below is a link to the updated Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act flier reflecting the addition of State Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) as Senate lead sponsor, and with the link to send a prewritten letter asking legislators to cosponsor..
Here is an article about the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act.
Source: Badger Herald click here
Pubdate: Sept. 7, 2009
Author: Ryan Rainey
BILL MAY LEGALIZE MEDICINAL WEED
Co-authored by 2 Wisconsin lawmakers, legislation follows lead of 14 other states
After last weekend's Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival protest on the Capitol steps brought attention to the issue of medical marijuana, two Wisconsin Democrats have proposed legislation that would legalize cannabis for medical purposes in the state.
According to a statement from advocacy group Is My Medicine Legal Yet?, Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Waunakee, are the co-authors of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, which if passed would allow terminally or seriously ill patients to grow or have someone else grow a small amount of cannabis for medical use.
Rickert is a Mondovi, Wis., citizen suffering from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome who was never given federal government-issued joints for medical use, according to the statement.
Michigan voters approved a similar initiative in a statewide referendum, which is the basis for the Wisconsin bill, said Gary Storck, spokesperson for IMMLY. The bill is the early stages of development, currently gaining co-sponsorships from Wisconsin senators and representatives.
Storck said the legislation covers a broad base of debilitating illnesses and he named post-traumatic stress disorder as a prominent target of the bill.
"It's been known for many years that cannabis is a potent remedy for the symptoms of PTSD," Storck said. "It helps them sleep and wean themselves off of alcohol and other substances that may be preventing them from readjusting."
Storck said he hopes the inclusion of PTSD as a debilitating condition will compel the state Legislature to give more consideration to the bill. He also said medical marijuana dispensaries more tightly regulated than those found in California would be allowed for patients with a state-issued ID card.
Storck also cited President Barack Obama's administration's decision not to interfere with state-sponsored cannabis dispensaries, an overridden veto in Rhode Island allowing dispensaries and the lack of hostility from Wisconsin citizens and legislators as factors that have made the issue more mainstream.
According to Erpenbach spokesperson Julie Laundrie, the issue has become more legitimate around the country in the past years; 13 states now allow the use of medical marijuana and 14 states currently have medical marijuana legislation pending.
Laundrie also said she believes the issue of medical marijuana will go beyond partisan politics.
"Mostly, people who would be using medical marijuana would be at the end of life or in very dire situations," Laundrie said. "Everyone knows someone that has really struggled when they were dying or when they were in treatment that was really painful or awful for them. I don't think that has anything to do with party lines."
Since the bill is still in its preliminary stages, it is difficult to measure Republican support or opposition to the bill. However, Kimber Liedl, spokesperson for Senate Minority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, said the legalization of marijuana should not be allowed, even under medical circumstances.
"The addictive and dangerous nature of the drug outweighs its benefits," Liedl said. "It's not high on the legislative agenda for this session. Other initiatives such as drunken driving legislation hold a greater priority than the legalization of marijuana."
IMMLY RELEASE: Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act Offers Wisconsin Patients Hope For Life With Dignity
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Here is the Is My Medicine Legal YET? release about the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act!
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, October 06, 2009
JACKI RICKERT MEDICAL MARIJUANA ACT OFFERS WISCONSIN PATIENTS HOPE FOR LIFE WITH DIGNITY
Madison/Mondovi - Is My Medicine Legal YET? is proud to announce that LRB 2517, The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton), is now being circulated among legislators for cosponsors.
The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is based on Michigan's medical cannabis law, which was passed by state voters in Nov. 2008 with 63% support, gaining a majority in every Michigan County. Another provision creates a system of state regulated dispensaries based on a recently enacted Rhode Island law. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also included as a qualifying condition for the program. Iraq and Afghani.war vets have been returning home in record numbers suffering from PTSD, and medical cannabis has long been a safe and natural remedy.
IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert is the namesake of the bill. Rickert, a seriously ill Mondovi resident who suffers from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and advanced reflex sympathetic dystrophy, was once approved for, but never supplied by, a federal program that still provides 4 living Americans with 300 pre=rolled marijuana cigarettes each month, "This bill, this time", Rickert says, "80% of the people in Wisconsin agree marijuana should be available for medical use in this state."
IMMLY director of communications Gary Storck, who along with terminally ill disabled vet Mary Powers has been leading weekly delegations of medical cannabis patients to Capitol offices to educate about the bill, will be back at the Capitol with Powers Wednesday. "Wisconsin residents overwhelmingly support physician-approved medical cannabis access. It's time to do the right thing for state patients who can benefit."
Is My Medicine Legal YET? is a Mondovi and Madison based grass roots patient and caregiver based organization dedicated to advancing public education about the medicinal benefits of marijuana. For further information contact Jacki Rickert at 715.926.4950 or Gary Storck at 608.241.8922 or visit the IMMLY website at www.immly.org.
IMMLY Founder and WI medical cannabis patient/advocate mmj bill namesake Jacki Rickert and "Mary and Gary Show" star, medical cannabis patient activist Mary Powers speak at Harvest Fest 39, on Library Mall, before the 2009 parade to the Capitol on Sun. 10/04/09.
Wisconsin State Journal: Medical marijuana supporters rally at Capitol
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Despite chilly winds that made 50 degree temps feel colder, nearly 2000 people paraded up State St. for the finale of HF 39, with many sticking around to hear speeches from Jackli Rickert, Ben Masel, Jim Miller, myself and other advocates and hot tunes from local rockers Baghdad Scuba Review.
Particularly moving was a courageous speech by an Iraq combat vet who discussed how cannabis relieved his intense post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. PTSD is one of the debilitating conditions included in the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act.
Hundreds of medical marijuana supporters rallied Sunday at the State Capitol for legislation that would make Wisconsin the 14th state to legalize cannabis for treatment of debilitating illnesses.
Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, are co-sponsors of the newly drafted Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, which would protect Wisconsin patients from arrest and prosecution and allow them or a designated caregiver to possess and grow a small amount of cannabis for medical use, said Gary Storck, communications director for the nonprofit advocacy organization Is My Medicine Legal YET?
"It is time that we address medical marijuana as an issue of providing comprehensive health care to all people," Pocan and Erpenbach said in a memo to legislators. "The patient and their doctor should have as many options as possible available when treating a patient's medical condition."
Rickert, a 58-year-old grandmother from Mondovi who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and advanced reflex sympathetic dystrophy, founded IMMLY in 1992. In 1997, she led a 210-mile trek of patients in wheelchairs from Mondovi to Madison to advocate for legal access to marijuana.
Rickert said she began using marijuana to stimulate her appetite after dropping to 68 pounds. "I'm alive because of cannabis," said Rickert, who now calls herself "a heavyweight" at 93 pounds.
"It's got to be this bill, this time," Rickert told supporters Sunday, saying that every time someone else signs on in support of medical marijuana, "It's like saying, 'More hope.'"
Storck, who has been advocating for medical marijuana for decades, said cannabis has helped him retain his eyesight, which he began losing from glaucoma as a child. He agreed that the time for passing legislation could be now or never. "Gov. Doyle has been willing to sign it all along," he said, adding, "The legislature has never been in a position to pass it until now."
Storck said that while there is a lot of support for the legislation from people throughout the state, "We need them to step forward and let their legislators know it."
The act is based on a Michigan law passed by voters in November 2008, Storck said. It also includes provisions from a Rhode Island law that would allow patients to obtain medical marijuana from dispensaries if they cannot grow it themselves.
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Another Mary & Gary and Friends show. The JRMMA remains on the verge of being rolled out for cosponsors. Stay tuned for developments, and mostly, as Mary says, Call, call, call your legislators!
Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act tee shirts are ready for Fighting Bob Fest!
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009
WI NORML/IMMLY will have a booth at Fighting Bob Fest in Baraboo today. Among the items available will be our new "Pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act" tee shirts. These beautiful shirts, 4 colors in front and 3 in back, bring back Jacki's original Rip Van Winkle, "Is My Medicine Legal YET?" design on the front and the purple Cheryl's heat" on the back. The heart design is also available as a lapel pin.
Join us at Fighting Bob Fest, or get them via the mail via our PayPal button. T-shirts are $20/$25 postage paid US only. Pins are $10/$12 postage included.
The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is still not back from being drafted by the Legislative Reference Bureau. What that means is that the exact details and language of the bill are not available yet. Once the draft is available, it will be available. Until then, all of us from the bill sponsor to the entire legislature to we the people just have to be patient.
The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
Per the office of chief bill sponsor Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison), the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is still at the bill drafters. These delays are often inexplicable, and the bill is expected literally any day.
Our recent lobby visits to the Capitol have found growing interest in the bill from lawmakers and their offices. We will let people know as soon as the draft becomes publicly available.
In the meantime, please continue to call your state Assembly Rep and State Senator and to talk to friends, family, co-workers, health care professionals, anyone, and ask them to do the same.
It's time for Medical Cannabis in Wisconsin, but we all must become activists in our communities to make this a reality.
Toll-free Legislative Hotline: 800-362-9472 (M-F 8a-4:30p) - Who Are My Legislators? http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx
Although Mary was not feeling well, our friends helped make the vaunted 09/09/09 a productive day. Hopefully, things will continue to progress so patients like Mary can truly live "Life with Dignity".
In the fifth episode of the "Mary & Gary and Friends Show", Gary Storck and Mary Powers offer their report on their most recent day of lobbying (Wed 09/09/09) at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison. Mary and Gary and friends have been visiting state lawmakers to let them know the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act will be introduced soon in the WI legislature by State Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison). Learn how to help pass it by watching!
Tags: Gary Storck, Mary Powers, Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, Medical Cannabis, Madison WI, WI State Capitol, Mary and Gary show, IMMLY, Wisconsin NORML, Madison NORML
Santa Barbara Independent: David Bearman, M.D.: What This Country Needs Is a Marijuana Summit
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Many may remember Dr. Bearman's visit to Madison in November 2007, with State Senate Health committee testimony, a book signing at Escape Coffee, and an address at the UW medical school that rose to the top of the video charts on the UW server click here.
Source: Santa Barbara Independent: click here
Saturday, September 5, 2009
What This Country Needs Is a Marijuana Summit
One Doctor's Answer to the Beer Summit
By David Bearman, M.D
When a white cop handcuffed a black professor outside his own home we had a beer summit in the name of better race relations. That summit addressed the number one social problem in this country since 1619 (the date the first African slaves were sold in the U.S.)
I'm calling for a marijuana summit. This summit will benefit the health of millions, while saving hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars.
The federal government must concur with what we the people already know. In the Obama Transition Team's own on-line poll, respondents overwhelmingly selected legalizing marijuana as our country's number one priority. This May, even a Zogby poll commissioned by the conservative O'Leary Report, found 52 percent of American voters in favor and only 37 percent opposed to legalizing (and taxing) marijuana.
I call on Gil Kerlikowske, director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, to have a frank discussion with doctors and researchers on medical cannabis and the efficacy of various routes of administration. Sadly, Kerlikowske seems to be using the same illogic as his predecessors in the drug office. He recently cited a University of Washington treatment program as the information source for his position that cannabis is bad stuff. Why? Because people who had a choice between treatment and going to jail chose treatment. Duh. I am disappointed in Kerlikowske. I expect more from a former Seattle police chief and Obama appointee.
The chief administrative law judge of the Food and Drug Administration, in a 1988 decision, found that cannabis is one of the safest therapeutic agents known to man. The FDA in 2005 said that liquid marijuana (Sativex) is safe enough to test on humans, cancer patients in fact. The government needs to look at the types of cancers that cannabis has been shown to treat. Chief Kerlikowske has said he wants to hear from the doctors on this.
When he does he'll find that we have a national organization, the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine, which will give him the real dope on the medical utility of cannabis. We can tell him of the benefits that our patients have received. I have incredible, compelling stories. There is the 85-year-old ex-Marine cancer survivor who was dying from starvation and used cannabis as an appetite stimulant and mood elevator. The 26-year-old. hemiplegic woman with intractable epilepsy that was well controlled by cannabis. The Vietnam vet who got surgery to remove shrapnel, due to intractable seizures, and as a result of the surgery got double vision and headaches. Cannabis allows him to productively participate in civic affairs. And the examples go on and on, including paraplegics with intractable pain, patients successfully treated for gastrophoresis , post-traumatic stress disorder, cyclic vomiting syndrome. I'll tell him about the productive lives of my patients. They include the principal of a high school, the mayor of a small city, a deputy sheriff, an assistant DA, a counselor at a drug treatment program, a very famous movie director, and lots of people with everyday jobs in construction, medicine, education-contractors, developers, doctors, nurses, professors.
Kerlikowske has tried to mitigate his earlier statements by saying he only meant smoked marijuana. He was recently quoted as saying that "the FDA has not determined that smoked marijuana has a value, and this is clearly a medical question that should be answered by the medical community." Speaking as the vice president of the AACM, let me assure the drug czar that cannabis is medicine whether smoked, vaporized, sprayed sublingually, dropped sublingually, drunk in beverages, made into tea, eaten, or used topically.
Kerlikowske is wise to say he will listen to the doctors. If he had a medical background I don't believe he would say it's okay to have intractable seizures, excruciating migraines, phantom limb pain, or to suffer with the symptoms of Crohn's Disease, or to die of malnutrition. Like thousands of American physicians, he would see the medical efficacy of cannabis. I have literally hundreds of patients with those conditions and a thousand more with chronic pain, cancer, and failed back syndrome who have benefited from the medicinal use of cannabis, smoked or otherwise.
The Drug Czar is on a listening tour. Let's give him an earful. It is not marijuana that is dangerous, but the laws which restrict research on it and make it difficult for people to use it therapeutically. That is real risky. We need to get the federal government out of the way, to honor the 9th and 10th Amendments to the Constitution limiting the federal government's authority, and to affirm that the 1925 Linder decision-recognizing the right of states to regulate the practice of medicine-still means something. It is time for the drug czar to listen to America. It is time for the marijuana summit.
David Bearman, M.D., physician, founder of the Isla Vista Medical Clinic, former Goleta Water District boardmember, and current Goleta West Sanitary District boardmember.
With the 4th episode of the Mary and Gary show now in the can, depicting lobbying on Tuesday Sept. 2, 2009 with our 9 person delegation, I thought it was a good idea to put them in one spot so folks can see how our efforts are building, and to let you know what you need to do to help.
The best ways to help are contacting your state Assembly Rep and State Senator, as well as having us personally deliver those letters for people in certain districts. Another way to help, especially for those outside Madison, is to join us at the Capitol and meet with your reps.
The Sauk County Board voted 28-1 Tuesday night to make possession of marijuana-related paraphernalia a fine, not a crime.
The amendment to the county’s Public Peace and Order ordinance will allow prosecutors to issue a $100 forfeiture to anyone caught with pot related items in Sauk County, rather than charge them with felony or misdemeanor crimes.
The county’s ordinance already includes language from state statutes regarding the possession of the drug, making it a violation of county codes. But until now, the ordinance did not deal specifically with the equipment related to using marijuana.
Possession of pot and pot paraphernalia is a criminal offense under state law. But prosecutors in counties that have adopted those laws into their own codes have the option of charging the offense as a simple ordinance violation, which is less serious.
"What this does is it gives the (District Attorney) another prosecuting option and I think it’s a good idea to provide her with that option," said supervisor Bill Wenzel of Prairie du Sac.
A fiscal note attached to the amendment voted on Tuesday night says the change will save county money, because people accused of ordinance violations are not entitled to have an attorney appointed at the cost of the county. Also, the revenue from any forfeitures goes to the county, whereas criminal fines go to the state’s coffers.
The amendment didn’t pass without criticism, however.
"A $100 fine is so minimal," said supervisor Lowell Haugen, the only board member who voted against the ordinance change. Board members Marcy Huffaker and Bob Cassity were excused from the meeting.
Haugen said there should be some provision in the law that allows the county to deport violators of the ordinance.
Supervisor Don Stevens of Loganville sits on the two committees that gave nods of approval to the new paraphernalia rule, sending it to the full board Tuesday night. He voted against amending the ordinance once, then for it in a different committee.
During Tuesday night’s board meeting, Stevens explained that he does not like a section of the county’s Public Peace and Order ordinance that sets curfew hours for minors.
He voted against amending the ordinance during an executive and legislative committee meeting because of those rules. When the pot paraphernalia amendment was being discussed in a later meeting of the board’s law enforcement committee, which Stevens chairs, he was informed that officers do not use the curfew rules as a primary reason for pulling someone over, he said. That’s why he said he decided to vote in favor of adding the pot paraphernalia rules to the ordinance in the second meeting.
Here is the latest MARY and GARY show, a report on today's weekly lobby visit to the Wisconsin State Capitol to lobby for the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
Public support will make or break the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act. Please contact your reps regularly until this is state law. Toll-free Legislative Hotline: 800-362-9472 (M-F 8a-4:30p - Who Are My Legislators? http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx Please take action today!
Friday October 2, 2009, 5-8 pm, 7th Annual IMMLY/WI NORML medical cannabis benefit at the Frequency in downtown Madison
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009, 12-6 pm, Library Mall,
11:30 - 12:15a Kronic Jones (reggae, roots rock)
12:45 - 1:45p Adam Isaac & The People (funk, rock, soul)
2:15 - 3: 15p Elf Lettuce (psychedelic jam rock)
3:45 - 4:45p Nama Rupa (reggae, dub)
5:15 - 6: 30p - TBA
Also featuring speakers including NORML Daily Stash's Russ Belville, CMMNJ's Jim Miller, Ben Masel, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Mary Powers and more, vendors, food, admission FREE all ages.
9pm - High Noon Saloon
Natty Nation w/ Blue Island Tribe
Special event evening club show, $10 adv, $12 door, 18+
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009: Harvest Fest Parade: Gather at Library Mall for live music and speakers,
1:15 - 2:15p The Dave Band (cookie rock)
2:30 - 3:30p - Ifdakar (jam rock)
3:40 pm.- Parade to State Capitol for rally and concert Featuring Speakers including NORML Daily Stash's Russ Belville, CMMNJ's Jim Miller, Ben Masel, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Mary Powers and more and music by Baghdad Scuba Review
Here is the second episode of the Gary and Mary Show. The film date was today, August 18, 2009.
In this second episode of the "Mary and Gary Show", Gary Storck and Mary Powers report on their most recent day of lobbying (Tues 08/18/09) at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison. Mary and Gary and guests have been visiting state lawmakers to let them know the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act will be introduced soon in the WI legislature by State Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison). Find out how to help pass it by watching the ending credits!
While it may be Episode One of the "Mary & Gary Show", it is actually our first post-lobbying video report. As far as actual wheelchair tires and shoes hitting the corridors of the Capitol, Mary and I have both put in some serious time for awhile now. As the rollout date for the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act approaches, we are trying to get to as many offices as possible to let lawmakers know a comprehensive bill is coming.
Today we had some help from friends from Sauk County who had never lobbied or been to Capitol before, and they did great and came away impressed with how easy it is. We had face to face meetings with both their Assembly rep and State Senator. Between the four of us, we were able to relate many benefits of cannabis in treating debilitaing conditions.
Video: Wisconsin Cannabis talk from April 2009 WI Libertarian convention
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
When I spoke at the Wisconsin State Libertarian Convention on April 18, 2009 up in WI Dells, my friend Tim Krenz was on hand videotaping the event.
Snapshot from video
Here is his description of the video of my talk, and below it the video itself:
"Gary Storck, a leading Wisconsin medical marijuana advocate, is featured in the latest installment of cepiaClub.com's "St. Croix Valley Liberty Beacons" video log. Storck, who was recorded by cepiaclub.com for "Liberty Beacons" at the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin convention in April, is a Madison chapter organizer of NORML.org, a marijuana normalization group. Medical marijuana efforts seek in part to make marijuana available as a regulated pain-management substitue for chemical-pharmecuticals for patients suffering life-threatening and chronic illnesses. Watch Gary Storck's update on the past and present status of medical marijuana advocacy, and its potential future for legalization at www.cepiaclub.com."
RELEASE: Madison Norml To Mark Fifth Birthday August 2nd
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, July 31, 2009
Here is the press release for Madison NORML's 5th birthday!
For immediate release: July 31, 2009
Contact: Gary Storck (608) 301-5665
MADISON NORML TO MARK FIFTH BIRTHDAY AUGUST 2ND
Madison - The Madison chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) will celebrate its fifth birthday with a party at Escape Coffee on Sunday, August 2, from 4-9 pm. Escape Coffee is at 940 Williamson St. on Madison's near east side.
In five years, Madison NORML has held over a hundred meetings and other events, including medical cannabis lobby days at the Capitol, benefits, concerts, book signings, lectures, and the annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival. The chapter's current focus is working alone and with other groups to pass Wisconsin medical cannabis legislation this session.
Madison NORML's birthday party will feature music from Madison's Nama Rupa and Milwaukee's Chalice in the Palace. Several Madison NORML board member will speak, and there will be NORML merchandise and literature, movies, and of course, birthday cake. Admission is free.
Among videos being screened is a 6 minute short created by Madison NORML co-founder Gary Storck detailing life with glaucoma, visiting the State Capitol for a medical marijuana hearing on July 31, 1979, and his nearly four decades as a medical cannabis patient. The movie can also be viewed online at: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVmUehs2TeY)
Madison NORML was first formed as a group of local activists met on the Memorial Union Terrace on August 1, 2004 and at precisely 4:20 pm, decided to form a chapter. Five years later, we welcome the community to come to our celebration, learn more about our mission, meet our members and find out how you can help end cannabis prohibition by joining Madison NORML. The Madison chapter has always been a volunteer driven organization with no fees to join, and donations of time and/or money encouraged. Chapter members can volunteer at a level that suits their schedule. Madison NORML meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Escape Coffee at 7 pm, excluding major holidays.
Madison NORML is also presenting the 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival from Oct. 1-4 at various downtown locations. Saturday Oct. 3 will include 6 hours of music and speakers at Library Mall. Sunday Oct. 4 will feature a march up State St. to the State Capitol for a rally for the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act featuring speakers and live music.
Visit MadisonNORML.org, Wisconsin NORML at WINORML.org, or MadisonHempFest.com for more information or join us in Facebook!
Kalamazoo Gazette: Editorial: Medical marijuana program appears on track
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Kalamazoo Gazette pronounces Michigan's medical cannabis law is working as intended. This is good evidence that passing similar legislation in Wisconsin should go similarly well.
Source: Kalamazoo Gazette click here
Author: Kalamazoo Gazette Editorial Board
Thursday July 09, 2009, 9:04 AM
Editorial: Medical marijuana program appears on track
Marijuana now can be used legally by patients in Michigan with certain medical conditions, a state identification card and a recommendation from a doctor. For the most part, it seems the state's voters are getting about what they expected from the program they approved in last November's election. Not a lot more, not a lot less.
The state started issuing ID cards in April to approved users, including some with HIV/AIDs, multiple sclerosis and glaucoma. Now there are more than 2,000 approved users statewide. Dozens of other people have been licensed as "caregivers," who may legally grow and supply users with marijuana.
In Southwest Michigan alone, there are about 190 registered users and 78 licensed caregivers.
From the early results, the program seems to be working about as anticipated. Doctors and patients are working together to decide if marijuana might be of some help, and the production and supply generally are being done within the rules established. At the moment, there does not appear to be a great deal of social or legal disruption, although some minor ambiguities about the process remain to be cleared up.
We're among those who think some scientific study and research still are needed, particularly to address good questions about marijuana's effectiveness, dosing and side effects. We also believe that kind of research could be conducted effectively in Michigan given the system that's been established and the patients who are available now for possible study, and considering the bio-medical research resources in existence here.
Wisconsin Dells Events: Letter: Use marijuana for post traumatic stress
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, July 9, 2009
Here is a letter I had published in Wisconsin Dells Events today!
Source: Wisconsin Dells Events
Pubdate: 8 July 2009
Author: Gary Storck
USE MARIJUANA FOR POST TRAUMATIC STRESS
Thanks for the article about the Vietnam veteran who finally received medals due him for his courageous service to our nation.
Post traumatic stress disorder is something very much in the news again, as U.S. troops serve long multiple deployments in combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan.
With PTSD rates soaring, today's veterans have rediscovered marijuana or cannabis by its scientific name, as a natural, non-toxic treatment for this disorder.
Earlier this year, the State of New Mexico added PTSD to the list of medical conditions covered by their State Medical Cannabis Program.
A medical cannabis bill is pending introduction in Wisconsin's legislature, and PTSD is included as a qualifying condition in the bill draft, along with other serious and debilitating conditions and symptoms. The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act is expected to be introduced soon by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison). Polling has found over 80 percent support for legal access to medical cannabis in Wisconsin, but this support is meaningless if citizens do not express it to their elected representatives. Please call the Wisconsin Legislature's Toll-free Legislative Hotline at 1-800-362-9472 and ask your State Senator and State Assembly Representative to cosponsor this important health care bill. It is time to show compassion for Wisconsin veterans and Wisconsin patients and protect them from arrest and jail for using a natural medicine to ease their suffering.
Prohibitionist WI judge refuses to go along with plea bargain in cannabis case
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, July 3, 2009
Here is an interesting case headed toward the Wisconsin Supreme Court. A prohibitionist Fond du Lac County judge rejected a plea bargain in a cannabis case, and the county DA is fighting the judge's decision.
MADISON — Should Wisconsin judges continue to have the unique authority to reject a plea agreement?
That's a question an appeals court has asked the Wisconsin Supreme Court to determine Thursday in a Fond du Lac County marijuana case.
Last year, Circuit Judge Peter Grimm rejected a plea agreement four times that would have reduced a felony marijuana charge against Joshua D. Conger to three misdemeanors. Grimm explained that he was acting in the "public's interest" in rejecting the plea bargain because police didn't agree with the agreement considering it involved 1.6 pounds of pot packaged in 48 "baggies."
Putting the case on hold, District Attorney Daniel Kaminsky appealed Grimm's rejection, claiming it impedes a prosecutor's constitutional authority to charge crimes.
"Prosecutors have the sole discretion to bring, reduce or dismiss charges without interference from the judicial branch. That's the way it works in the federal system and all states that I know of. However, in Wisconsin, the lines have been blurred, and that's what's being addressed here," said Kaminsky in a phone interview Thursday.
Because of a 1978 decision, prosecutors have to explain to judges why they are reducing charges, which judges have interpreted to allow them to accept or reject pleas.
Grimm, who has intervened in the appeal, acknowledges a prosecutor's "unfettered discretion to bring criminal charges," but the discretion to change the charge becomes a shared power between the judicial and executive branches of government under the separation of powers doctrine.
While Grimm was unavailable for comment Thursday, Kaminsky said the separation of powers gives him and not the judge absolute authority to charge a crime throughout the case.
"He can't be judge, jury and prosecutor while wearing the same hat. I'm not saying anything negative about judges, as they're in the same predicament we're in, and I think they would like this resolved," Kaminsky said.
In cases like Conger's, allowing judges to have authority over charging decisions could require district attorneys to prosecute crimes they believe they couldn't prove, said Kaminsky. Prosecutors have an ethical duty under law not to proceed with a case if they can't prove it.
Call for entries: Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival poster/shirt design contest!
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Summer is here and that means that fall is not far behind, and fall brings Harveat Fest! Here is a chance to immortalize your design as the official design of the 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival this October 1-4 at various Madison downtown locations!
Call for entries: Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival poster/shirt design contest!
Madison NORML's poster/shirt design contest for this October's 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival continues! We have received some great entries, but there is still plenty of time to submit yours! Submit your entries by August 9th to contests@winorml.org.
Madison NORML will judge the entries at our August 10th meeting at 7:00 p.m. at Escape Java, at 940 Williamson St (behind La Rocca's) on Madison's East Side.
Madison's Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival began as a marijuana smoke-in in 1971. Now in its 39th year, Harvest Fest has a long history of promoting cannabis hemp legalization and free speech while providing an annual celebration for like-minded people to join together.
Include: 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival October 1-4, 2009 Madison, WI
Room for event details: Bands, speakers, and any other details will be added to final proofs/designs for T-shirts (back) and posters when finalized. No need for blank space, just somewhere for the text to go on the poster.
www.madisonhempfest.com
Winner must provide a 600 dpi copy for printing. A compressed (jpg) version can be sent to contests@winorml.org for selection.
Contest winner will receive a framed poster on a special paper stock and a T-shirt with their design. Winner will also receive assorted NORML "schwag" including a Madison NORML shirt of their preferred size.
Disclaimer: All designs submitted become property of Madison NORML to be used for promoting said event. Any additions or modifications will be done with artists consent.
NORML is writing you today to remind you to contact your members of Congress in support of marijuana law reform.
Earlier this month, Massachusetts Democrat Barney Frank reintroduced a
pair of bills to limit the federal government's authority to arrest and
prosecute marijuana offenders.
The first act, House Bill 2835: The Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act of 2009, would ensure that medical cannabis patients in states that have approved its use will no longer have to fear arrest or prosecution from federal law enforcement agencies. Sixteen members of Congress have signed on as cosponsors to HR 2835, which is now before the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Passage of this act would provide state lawmakers the choice to maintain
their current penalties for minor marijuana offenses or eliminate them
completely. Lawmakers would also have the option to explore legal
alternatives to tax and regulate the adult use and distribution of
cannabis free from federal interference. Four members of Congress have
signed on as cosponsors to HR 2943, which is now before two separate
committees -- The House judiciary Committee, and the House Energy and
Commerce Committee.
Now is the time to contact your U.S. Representatives are urge them to
support common sense marijuana law reform. Ask your member of Congress to
become a cosponsor of these important pieces of legislation.
To write your members of the House in favor of House Bill 2835: The
Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act of 2009, please go here:
To write your member of the House in favor of House Bill 2943: An Act to
Remove Federal Penalties for Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible
Adults, please go here:
Wisconsin Assembly Bill 206 would create a committee to study the uses of industrial hemp
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, June 20, 2009
In a little noticed move, a Wisconsin State Assembly Bill that proposes to create a committee to study the uses of industrial hemp was introduced April 14, 2009. The bill mirrors a proposal from from the 2007-2008 session with truly bipartisan support that had a committee hearing and unanimous committee vote, but never reached the Assembly floor for a vote under then-GOP speaker Mike Huebsch click here.
AB206 An Act relating to: creating a committee to study the uses of industrial hemp.
History of AB206 with link to Bill text: click here
AB206
LRB-2009/1
2009 - 2010 LEGISLATURE
2009 ASSEMBLY BILL 206
April 14, 2009 - Introduced by Representatives Garthwaite, M. Williams, Ballweg, Berceau, Black, Grigsby, Parisi, Pocan, Pope-Roberts, Soletski, Vruwink and Zepnick, cosponsored by Senators Schultz and Taylor. Referred to
Committee on Rural Economic Development.
Pg1Ln1 An Act relating to: creating a committee to study the uses of industrial hemp.
________________________________________________________________
Analysis by the Legislative Reference Bureau
AB206 This bill creates the Committee to Study the Uses of Industrial Hemp. The bill requires the committee to review literature related to industrial hemp, to evaluate the economic opportunities for this state that could result from producing and using industrial hemp, and to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature.
Back on the Larry Zamba show on Kenosha WLIP from 4-5pm Saturday June 6
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Due to technical problems with last week's show, I've been invited back on Larry Zamba's progressive talk radio show this Saturday June 6 on WLIP AM 1050 http://wlip.com/ in the Kenosha WI area. The show airs from 4-5 pm. WLIP can be streamed live at http://wlip.com/pages/1361911.php. Join the discussion at (262) 694-1050.
Is My Medicine Legal YET?: Vigil for Medical Cannabis patients at WI State Capitol June 7
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, June 5, 2005
Here is IMMLY's press release for Sunday's vigil.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Gary Storck 608-241-8922
Is My Medicine Legal YET?: Vigil for Medical Cannabis patients at WI State Capitol June 7
MADISON: On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY.org), will host a vigil commemorating victims of medical marijuana prohibition, past and present, at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison. IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert is scheduled to attend and speak. The vigil will be held on the landing at the top of the State St. steps, just outside of the Capitol building, from 8:00-10:00 pm. Battery-powered LED candles will substitute for wax candles.
This vigil is one of a number of vigils being held nationwide on June 7 including one at the New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton, all marking the 6th anniversary of the passing of MS patient/medical cannabis activist Cheryl Miller. Cheryl's husband, Jim Miller, is speaking at the NJ event. Jim Miller and Cheryl worked closely with IMMLY's Jacki Rickert and Gary Storck.
Mineral Point WI singer-songwriter Rick Harris, who was inspired to write his song, “Legal Medicine Blues”, after meeting Jacki, will be performing an acoustic version of the song at the vigil Sunday. Listen to the song here: http://www.immly.org/legal_medicine_blues.htm
Jacki Rickert says of the event, "This vigil commemorates Cheryl Miller and all victims of medical cannabis prohibition, those who have passed on. and those who vow to carry on".
For more information contact Gary Storck at 608-241-8922 or visit IMMLY.org or the IMMLY Vigil event page on Facebook: (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=80078284874).
Good luck to my friends in NJ today as they take medical cannabis to the next level with a hearing that could put their state's bill on the NJ Assembly floor for a final vote later. Cheryl Miller's spirit will be in the hearing room!
I first wrote this post in 2006, when it had been 27 years ago that I obtained a letter from my eye doctor saying if he were able to legally, he would prescribe cannabis for my glaucoma.
Now it has been 3 decades since the letter, and nearly 37 years since an earlier eye doc tested my intraocular pressure (IOP) after I had medicated and found that my chronically elevated IOPs were normal!
June 04, 2006
A letter from 27 years ago today
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, June 4, 2006
Since 1979, June 4 has held special meaning for me. My then-ophthalmologist wrote me a letter dated June 4, 1979 that states, "I am familiar that reports that marijuana lowers intraocular pressure in many people who have glaucoma. If marijuana were available for me to prescribe to this patient, I would be willing to do so, in the hope it would adequately control his condition with fewer side effects than the medications currently available."
Unfortunately, under federal law, my doctor could not prescribe marijuana then and still cannot do so today. Marijuana could be prescribed up until 1970, when Congress passed the Controlled Substances Act classing marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug with a high potential for abuse and no medical use. 36 years later and counting, they have still not corrected this grave error, and many millions of patients over several generations have paid the price.
The letter was significant personally in that it represented the first time a doctor had recognized, in writing, that cannabis would benefit me and that it should be available like any other medication. Seven years earlier, October 3, 1972, I had stumbled upon pot as a treatment for the congenital glaucoma that had steadily stolen my sight all through childhood. I had smoked some pot with friends after school and headed off to see a different eye doctor. He found my normally highly elevated intraocular pressures normal. Since that day I have continued to medicate with cannabis every day I could obtain it, through the 1970's, 1980's, 1990's and today over halfway through the 00's.
If America truly is the land of liberty and justice for all, the Berlin wall of cannabis prohibition must fall, like the lies and myths that have been perpetrated in the name of keeping this gentle herb from patients in need. The sky is blue not green, and its time to stop the lies and the war and let the healing begin.
Waukesha Freeman: Medical marijuana debate to spark up soon
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
My hometown paper, the Waukesha Freeman, interviewed me for this article last week. I had to hand transcribe the second half off the paper hard copy mailed to me by my friend Katie. Thanks Katie!
Source: Waukesha Freeman click here
Pubdate: 30 May 2009
Author: Joe Petrie
Medical marijuana debate to spark up soon
Supporters, detractors expect another fight over potential bill
WAUKESHA - An already controversial session of the state Legislature is about to spark another big fight.
Advocates for legalizing medical marijuana in Wisconsin are gearing up to get a bill passed in the Legislature that would open up the drug to those fighting severe diseases.
Gary Storck, spokesman for the group Is My Medicine Legal Yet? said they expect the bill to be introduced within the next six weeks and given the make up of the current ruling bodies, gives it a good chance of passing.
"We had a poll done in 2002 and the results found that over 80 percent of people statewide supported it," said Storck. "If the representatives and senators truly represent the people, they'll support this one thing that has been introduced into every session since 1997."
State Rep. Leah Vukmir, R-Wauwatosa, who has also worked as a registered nurse, has been a vocal opponent of the medical marijuana bill, saying it would only say it's OK for people to break the law.
"This is nothing more than a back door attempt to try and legalize marijuana," she said, "I took an oath of office to uphold the laws of the land and if I agreed to a bill like that, I'd be asking people to break the law because marijuana isn't a legal substance."
Medical marijuana is currently legal in 13 states and it has been gaining traction in the Great Lakes region.
In November, Michigan voters approved a medical marijuana bill making it legal there. This week the Illinois Senate also approved a similar bill and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed a bill legalizing it there, gearing up for a fight with the Legislature.
Storck said the Wisconsin bill would be similar to the Michigan bill in that it would allow for people with severe debilitating diseases to possess and grow a small amount of marijuana for medical purposes.
One difference, he said, was that the Wisconsin law may also exempt veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Although supporters say there are an untold number of medicinal benefits to marijuana medication, Vukmir disagrees with that argument, saying other means of medication are available to patients now that can give the same effects of the drug.
The Freeman was unable to locate an area doctor willing to speak on record about claims made by either side of the debate by press time.
Past Wisconsin bills have gotten support from state Democrats, including Gov. Jim Doyle.
The state's first medical marijuana bill was signed by Republican Gov. Lee Sherman Dreyfus in 1982, which opened the door for more medical marijuana research.
E-mail: jpetrie@conleynet.com
This story appeared in The Waukesha Freeman on May 30, 2009.
Letter in the Minocqua WI Lakeland Times: Time for a look at 'undoing counterproductive blunder'
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Here is my response to an article in the Minocqua WI Lakeland Times about the workplace smoking ban. The letter answers some hypocritical statements by prohibitionist Republican state lawmakers.
Source: Lakeland Times
Monday, June 01, 2009
TIME FOR A LOOK AT 'UNDOING COUNTERPRODUCTIVE BLUNDER'
To the Editor:
State Rep. Dan Meyer (R-Eagle River) was quoted in The Lakeland Times as saying in some cases, people who break the new workplace smoking ban law may be punished more severely than some people who are found with marijuana, "New state smoking ban law receives mixed reviews" (May 26 edition).
As the article noted, Meyer's guesstimate of the cost of a Madison ordinance violation for casual possession of marijuana was low. The amount is actually $109 rather than the $15 amount being bandied about by Meyer and other Assembly Republicans who opposed the bill.
If Rep. Meyer and his colleagues truly believe that the statewide workplace smoking ban fine should be lowered to the cost of a Madison ordinance violation, then it would only be fair that they introduce a companion bill reducing statewide marijuana penalties to the same amount as Madison's.
It is not fair to cannabis consumers in places outside Madison who face misdemeanor or felony charges for the same amount of pot that gets them a ticket in Madison.
Rep. Meyer should also look into reducing the penalty for pot possession, second offense, any amount, at the state level. Under current state law, someone might get just a ticket for a few joints in Madison and some parts of Wisconsin, but then face a felony should it happen twice.
But, if Meyer and his colleagues support current state marijuana laws, it would then be consistent that a second smoking ban violation should merit a felony, just like it is for the poor pot smoker.
In addition, cannabis consumers, unlike tobacco consumers, cannot legally buy their substance of choice.
Complete fairness would call for Meyer to sponsor legislation creating a legal market for cannabis, then taxing it to help state finances in these troubled times, if he is able to stomach additional taxes.
That's what California State Rep. Tom Ammiano did recently. Even California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a staunch Republican, is now saying California should explore legalizing and taxing pot.
While I may be writing slightly tongue in cheek, the fact is Wisconsin and the entire nation are facing serious troubles. We can't continue to fund programs that eat up tax dollars, like marijuana prohibition, while funding basic services.
Should education and health care take the hit so we can keep arresting our fellow citizens for pot, even medical users?
Or do we start undoing an unjust counterproductive blunder and embrace the green industries that the cannabis plant can bring to our economy?
Gary Storck
president Wisconsin chapter of National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) Madison
Letter in Madison's weekly Isthmus: Edwards: wrong about everything?
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, May 31, 2009
I've been so busy I had not yet gotten around to reading Madison's weekly Isthmus and was pleasantly surprised to find my letter below.
Source: Isthmus click here
Pubdate: 29 May 2009
Author: Gary Storck
EDWARDS: WRONG ABOUT EVERYTHING?
I knew John Edwards was only in it for himself when he failed to support medical marijuana, even with his wife undergoing treatment for terminal cancer ("The Undoing of John Edwards" 5/15/09). But Edwards reached full weasel status for me when asked about marijuana decriminalization during a debate in October 2007. He opposed it "Because I think it sends the wrong signal to young people, and I think the president of the United States has the responsibility to ensure that we're sending the right signals to young people."
Edwards spoke these words while concealing his marital infidelity from supporters and the nation he sought to lead. Talk about wrong signals!
Gary Storck
Madison NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws)
NORML on Larry Zamba show on WLIP 1050 AM Kenosha WI Saturday
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, May 29, 2009
Just wanted to let folks know that Allen St. Pierre, executive director of national NORML in Washington DC, and myself, representing Wisconsin NORML/Madison NORML, will be on Larry Zamba's progressive talk radio show this Saturday May 30 on WLIP AM 1050 in the Kenosha WI area click here. The show airs from 4-5 pm.
WLIP can be heard from Milwaukee to Chicago, and the show can be streamed live: click here. Please tune in, and if you like, join the discussion by calling (262) 694-1050.
UP Michigan cop lies about new medical cannabis law
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, May 18, 2009
While the majority of law enforcement officers no doubt realize the futility of cannabis prohibition overall and understand alcohol makes their jobs much harder than pot ever would, at least one UP Michigan drug task force leader has resorted to outright lying about the state's new medical cannabis law.
Medical marijuana is ‘nightmare’ for some
By Audrey LaFave
POSTED: May 18, 2009
Source: Daily Press: click here
ESCANABA - A law enforcement official from the Upper Peninsula Substance Abuse Enforcement Team called Michigan's newly-legalized medical marijuana law "a nightmare."
Det. Lt. Jeff Racine of UPSET discussed the new law and its implications for police agencies and county prosecutors. He said the law is ambiguous and has a lot of loopholes.
"The problem with these new laws is they are not fully understood," Racine said. "It's going to be a nightmare for law enforcement because there are so many loopholes."
Racine said the confusion may cause officers to get to the point where they may not enforce what law is left regarding marijuana, for fear of litigation.
"People said this would be like a small step towards the complete legalization of marijuana. This is more like a major jump towards legalizing it," he said.
Racine also said there is not a lot of talk about some of the negative side effects or the fact, he said, that marijuana is a gateway drug.
"Not every person who smokes marijuana becomes a crack smoker or a heroin user, but every person who does the hard stuff started with marijuana," he explained.
Racine said statistics show us that there are 10 times more people driving vehicles under the influence of drugs than there are drunks on the road.
"The way the law was written, it is written in favor of the user and against law enforcement. Do you want the brakes changed on your car by a guy who smoked marijuana on his lunch hour? A very large percentage of people are going to abuse this law," he said.
Racine also said it's likely many people will try to cloak themselves in the law wrongfully.
"Probably 90 percent of the medical defenses are going to be false, and that's a low guess," he said.
Entry level activism: Handing out information on MS and medical cannabis at a Wisconsin MS Walk on May 3
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, May 11, 2009
Last weekend we had the Global Cannabis March Madison on Saturday May 2, and then on Sunday May 3, I joined a trio of local activists for a very laid back yet productive bit of activism.
Each year chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society hold MS Walks around the country. Jim Miller of New Jersey and his wife Cheryl pioneered this back in the 1990's and they hit numerous walks up until Cheryl passed from complications of MS in June 2003. Since then, Jim has continued to hand out literature at MS walks, but with little help until this year, with a bill in play in NJ.
May 3 was my first MS Walk, and I found it was as low impact as Jim had often described. Even though we had the location wrong and showed up late, we still handed out over 400 fliers explaining how to contact state lawmakers and details of the bill to walkers crossing the finish line!
This shows just how easy it is to help spread the word about medical cannabis and still have most of the day to take care of your daily activities.
The flier we handed out, adapted from Jim Miller's NJ design: Download file
Letter in Capital Times: Jail over medical marijuana akin to torture
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, May 8, 2009
Bryan Epis is a good man who has been horribly mistreated by federal authorities. Here's a plea for justice for a true American hero who was just trying to help patients get their medicine.
Source: Capital Times click here
Pubdate: 8 May 2009
Author: Gary Storck
JAIL OVER MEDICAL MARIJUANA AKIN TO TORTURE
Dear Editor: A recent letter writer called for the removal of U.S. Judge Jay Bybee for writing memos supporting torture when he was part of the Bush administration. Bybee was also part of a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that recently reaffirmed the 10-year mandatory minimum sentence of California medical cannabis provider Bryan Epis, on charges of conspiracy to manufacture marijuana.
Epis' case began in 1997, shortly after the passage of California's groundbreaking medical cannabis law by voters in 1996. According to NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), Epis' appeal was filed on various grounds, including prosecutorial misconduct and "the unclarity of the law at the time of his arrest." The judges did not even bother to hold a hearing, only issuing an 11-page denial.
Bryan Epis has already served part of the sentence, and he and his family have already been tortured enough by federal authorities. It is incredibly disgusting that torture was used widely to further our foreign policies in the Bush administration. Denying medicine to sick people and engaging in long, wasteful prosecutions of patients trying to help others legally under state laws, as Bryan Epis did, is a stain on a nation that claims to be an example of freedom and democracy. Not only should Bybee be impeached for his torture memos, but Bryan Epis deserves a full pardon under the new policy announced by Attorney General Eric Holder that state medical cannabis laws will be respected.
Letter in WI State Journal: Another reason for peaceful block party
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Here's a letter I wrote that was published in today's WI State Journal. The reception our march received once we turned the corner on to Mifflin St. was incredible and the cheering only got louder as we proceeded onward. Partygoers lined up to be photographed with our marchers and our banners. We were the bright shiny thing emanating good vibes. In the words of the Gov. of California and new supporter of Cannabis Legalization, Arnold Schwarzenegger, "We'll be back in 2010, Mifflin!"
Source: Wisconsin State Journal click here
Pubdate: 7 May 2009
Author: Gary Storck
ANOTHER REASON FOR PEACEFUL BLOCK PARTY
Sunday's article about the Mifflin Street Block Party should have been titled "Pot paraders pacify partiers."
Alcohol, the legal drug of choice for Mifflin partiers, is a depressant. Cannabis produces euphoria. The good vibes given off by the Global Cannabis Marchers stuck around long enough to keep everything much more peaceful and the result was less violence and fewer arrests this year. There's a lesson in there somewhere.
-- Gary Storck, co-founder, Madison chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
FdL Reporter: High court ruling changes protocol for police searches
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Another article on the effect of the recent SCOTUS ruling on Wisconsin police stops and searches.
High court ruling changes protocol for police searches
Source: Fond du Lac Reporter: click here
May 7, 2009
By Russell Plummer The Reporter
Policies covering 28 years of routine car searches in Fond du Lac County have been tweaked after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
On April 21, the highest court in the land — in the case of Arizona v. Gant — rejected the automatic application of the Search Incident to Arrest Doctrine, noting that people in custody no longer pose a threat or can conceal evidence.
The decision limits performing a search of a car to two factors: the arrested individual is not restrained and within reaching distance of the vehicle's passenger compartment during the search, or an officer finds probable cause that the vehicle contains evidence of the arrest.
Fond du Lac Police Department Lt. Aaron Goldstein said he is following the guidance of Assistant Wisconsin Attorney General Dave Perlman when training officers about searches.
Goldstein offered the example of a driver who has a warrant for operating after revocation. He said that in the past, an arrest could happen after an officer searched the vehicle.
"It's not going to change the way we do business when we have an arrest (and) you see something like drugs or open intoxicants in plain view or smell recently burnt marijuana," Goldstein said. "There are exceptions when you have probable cause to search the vehicle.
"What Gant did is really getting it down to mere fact. Just the mere fact that somebody is in a vehicle that we justifiably stop, there has to be something more to that story to perform a search."
Fond du Lac County Sheriff Mick Fink said the Supreme Court's 5-4 decision likely will not have a significant impact on his deputies.
"(Gant) isn't going to change us turning on the red and blues," Fink said. "If you are arrested for something, you are arrested. It's just going to effect how the deputy, in our case, searches the vehicle after you are arrested."
Goldstein noted that allowing a person to stand outside a vehicle during a search is a concern with the Police Department.
"It's not worth the officer safety concern. If we are going to be searching the vehicle, the search is going to be justified, it is going to be based on a reasonable suspicion, it's going to be based on probable cause," Goldstein said. "We are not going to have the person sitting in the vehicle while we search their car or within a grab/lunge/reach area because of the (weapons) and equipment we carry."
He added that defense attorneys could also pick apart the location of the defendant outside of the vehicle relative to the search.
Chief Deputy Mark Strand said a majority of vehicle searches come up empty. He and Fink added that they are not opposed to a deputy watching over an unrestrained person as another officer searches the car.
Global Cannabis March in Madison exceeds all expectations!
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Madison's Global Cannabis March on Saturday went very well. Attendees gathered at the State St. steps and heard impromptu speeches delivered by bullhorn before heading out. An attendee from Milwaukee brought the bullhorn, saving the day after a promised sound system failed to materialize.
It was the bullhorn that saved the day again as members of the UW-Milwaukee Students for Sensible drug policy and others led attendees in chants, some made up on the spur of the moment, as we wound through downtown.
The march size swelled while progressing down State St. and then heading to Mifflin. Arriving at Miffland, GCM Marchers were greeted with deafening cheers and applause.
The GCM definitely elevated the Mifflin Party into a truly fun event, creating a welcome distraction from the usual activities, drinking beer and drinking beer, then having a beer before tipping another beer.
Miffland partiers posed for pictures with marchers gathered behind a WI NORML banner and "Is My Medicine Legal YET?" and "Pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act signs.
Facebook members can find video clips and phots that I took at the festivities.
Meanwhile, the WI State Journal came up with an article about Miffland Partiers that was more about our march:
MIFFLIN STREET TRADITION OFF TO 'CALM, WELL-BEHAVED' START
Of all the sights on West Mifflin Street on Saturday, none seemed more reassuring than long-time marijuana activist Ben Masel, his hair pulled back in a graying pony tail, toting a sign that read "Grow Hemp Save Farms."
Amid all the partying, Masel, 55, seemed at least an echo of the first Mifflin Street block party 40 years ago, born in 1969 during the politically charged days of the Vietnam War protests.
The more mainstream 40th anniversary edition of a Madison springtime tradition, fueled by sun and warm temperatures and beer, was in full swing by 2 p.m. on Saturday with hundreds of students filling Mifflin curb to curb and others jammed onto the sagging porches and balconies of the street's old two-story homes.
Police, on horses and in cars and on foot, were much in presence. Nearby streets were blockaded and signs reading "No open alcohol, no glass, no public urination," greeted party-goers.
Despite the prime spring weather and the swelling, swilling crowds, few problems had surfaced by late afternoon, according to Rachel Strauch-Nelson, a spokeswoman for Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz. She reported only a handful of arrests, though the number was expected to go up as day turned into evening.
"Things are going well at this point," said Strauch-Nelson at mid-afternoon Saturday. "The crowd is calm and well-behaved."
About 120 officers with Madison and Dane County were on patrol during the event, which is expected to draw at least 15,000 people, mostly students. Considering that the first Mifflin Street party ended with police and students squaring off in riots that lasted three days, the relationship between law enforcement and party-goers seemed friendly enough Saturday with smiling officers frequently agreeing to pose with students for photos.
Most law enforcement efforts seemed directed at keeping beer drinkers on the grounds of private residences where open alcohol containers were legal, as opposed to the street and sidewalks.
T-shirt sales were brisk, driven by both the good weather and the 40th anniversary. Brynne and Erin McBride, twin sisters who work with ABC For Health, were hawking T-shirts from a back door of the non-profit, now housed in the old Mifflin Street Co-op building. The T-shirts read "The Revolution Continues, Mifflin Street, 1969-2009."
"We're keeping the Mifflin Street spirit alive," said Brynne.
Most other T-shirts were somewhat less inspiring. "I Would Rather Be a Good Liver Than Have One, Mifflin '09," read another.
With a stage and a disc jockey spinning tunes and food carts up and down the street, a search for the goofiness of some of the old Mifflin Street parties took a while. But the strangeness could be found Saturday afternoon in the 400 block where Alex Scherer-Jones did yo-yo tricks for beer and money. At his feet sat a cardboard box inscribed with the words "Drunk People Love Yo-Yos." In the box were two beers and a pile of bills.
Few had as much perspective as Masel, who led a march advocating the legalization of marijuana from the Capitol Square to Mifflin at noon. Masel said his first block party was in 1971, two years after the first. Saturday, he and about about 150 others carrying signs and chanting "We smoke pot, we like it a lot," paraded onto Mifflin and were greeted with wild cheers and applause.
"We did this to sort of demonstrate that some of the spirit remains," said Masel.
By Catherine Kavanaugh, Daily Tribune Staff Writer
Public can pipe up about ordinance at May 12 hearing.
ROYAL OAK — Some city officials want to weed out the possibility of medical marijuana suppliers growing 60 plants in their houses by requiring them to set up shop in a general business district.
Registered primary caregivers can grow 12 plants each for up to five qualified patients under a Michigan law passed last November.
The Plan Commission is looking at regulating where some growing operations can locate. Royal Oak could be one of the first — if not the first — community in the state to set up zoning rules for people supplying patients.
"I haven't heard of anything like this. It will be interesting to see what comes of it," said James McCurtis, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Community Health, which registers primary caregivers and qualified patients.
The Plan Commission set a public hearing on proposed changes to the zoning ordinance for 7:30 p.m. May 12 at City Hall. The amendments would define primary caregivers as medical marijuana dispensaries and allow them in general business zones only as a special land use, which adds a level of scrutiny.
In Royal Oak, Woodward Avenue, Main Street north of the downtown, and some parts of Coolidge Highway and 14 Mile Road are general business districts.
The zoning amendments wouldn't affect residents with written certification of debilitating medical conditions, such as cancer, AIDS, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, who are growing marijuana for personal use.
If the ordinance is adopted, a qualified patient could still grow up to 12 plants at home indoors and possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana, according to Doug Hedges, city planner. If more than one qualified patient lives in a house, each can grow up to 12 plants.
The zoning amendments would affect people growing marijuana for one or more qualified patients.
"Primary caregivers can be compensated so that has the potential to be a business," Hedges said. "We don't think that's suitable for a house. We want to treat it similar to other medical services."
However, one primary caregiver probably won't be able to afford rent in a general business district as well as growing supplies and utility bills for lights and water, Plan Commission member Stacie Vorves said.
"If we're going to require this in a business district, we won't have medical marijuana grown here," Vorves said.
To make it economically feasible, Hedges said several primary caregivers could form a consortium to lower costs and serve more patients. This idea comes from Berkeley, Calif., he added.
"We see a potential for four or five primary caregivers to act together as a business," Hedges said.
But Vorves doubts they will.
"It's a good excuse but that doesn't happen too much in business," he said.
Vorves isn't sure he will support the zoning changes. He said as long the state law limits primary caregivers to grow up to 60 marijuana plants, he thinks it should be allowed as a home business.
"I don't care if people are growing pot or tomatoes. If both are legal, what's the difference?" Vorves asked.
Beloit News: Supreme Court case reduces police's ability to search cars
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, April 24, 2009
The US Supreme Court has restored part of the 4th Amendment of the US Constitution, and state law officers are adjusting, according to this article from the Beloit News.
Supreme Court case reduces police's ability to search cars
By Ashley Rhodebeck
arhodebeck@beloitdailynews.com
Published: Friday, April 24, 2009 11:41 AM CDT
Stateline Area police - along with law enforcement officers nationwide - are adapting their practices to adhere to a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that limits authorities' power to search someone's vehicle immediately after an arrest.
In a 5-4 decision, the court ruled Tuesday that police need a warrant to search an automobile if the person is locked in a patrol cruiser and poses no safety threat to officers, according to the Associated Press.
Justice John Paul Stevens said in the majority opinion that warrantless searches still may be conducted if a car's passenger compartment is within reach of a suspect who has been removed from the vehicle or there is reason to believe evidence will be found of the crime that led to the arrest.
For example, Roscoe Police Chief Jamie Evans said, if she were to pull a motorist over and could smell marijuana, she would have probable cause to conduct a search. Towed vehicles also could be searched.
“I'm not going to say that it's going to impact us greatly because a lot of times we do have the probable cause,” she said.
Beloit Police Chief Sam Lathrop said the court's decision “has definitely taken a turn away from what was common law enforcement practice” and has changed law enforcement's perspective on search incident to arrest.
Police have the right to conduct an immediate search of the area, whether it is a home or vehicle, when taking someone into custody, Lathrop said. It is a normal and common procedure.
“It's a basic tenant of officer safety,” he said. “We're not necessarily looking for additional evidence.”
But, he added, the ruling will mean police may sometimes not find more evidence when they would before.
Justice Samuel Alito, in dissent, complained that the decision upsets police practice that has developed since the court, 28 years ago, first authorized warrantless searches of cars immediately following an arrest.
“There are cases in which it is unclear whether an arrestee could retrieve a weapon or evidence,” Alito said.
Even more confusing, he said, is asking police to determine whether the vehicle contains evidence of a crime. “What this rule permits in a variety of situations is entirely unclear,” Alito said.
The Wisconsin Office of the Attorney General has issued a synopsis and review of the case and what it means for police in the state, Lathrop said. He noted his department is reviewing the ruling.
“It's important we bring our officers up to speed on this most recent ruling,” he said.
Wishing a Happy 4/20 to all those who appreciate the cannabis plant. Here is an OPED I wrote a few days ago.
President Obama says he wants to move us from, "a dark and painful chapter in our history," by promising not to prosecute CIA employees for torture.
One could also say the suppression of medical cannabis also represents "a dark and painful chapter in our history". Particularly for those people in states where it is legal, like Charles Lynch, the Morro Bay CA medical cannabis provider who had the approval of state and local authorities to operate, yet is still facing a minimum of 5 years on federal charges this Thursday.
Of course it goes far beyond the tragedies of those who were persecuted for trying to help, to the actual suppression of science. After all, the government knew that cannabis shrunk tumors back in 1974, but kept it secret. That action has meant millions of tragedies, unnecessary suffering, grieving survivors. And cancer is just one subset of myriad medical conditions that can be eased with cannabis. Because of it, scientists today are only scratching the surface on the tremendous cancer fighting potential of cannabis and its cannabinoids and other components. Patients undergoing chemotherapy might have had a non-toxic alternative years ago, were it not for this “dark and painful chapter in our history”.
Harvard Professor Lester Grinspoon has said that medical cannabis will never reach its full potential until cannabis is legalized completely, and I agree.
We have a unique opportunity to correct the mistake of cannabis prohibition at this time in history. Support for legalization is at all-time highs, and numerous commentators and columnists have recently joined in support. Legalization could pacify a deteriorating Mexico, while creating a huge new green industry at home.
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt raised the nation’s spirits during the Great Depression by legalizing beer early in his Administration, a move that restored many jobs at my ancestors’ Storck Brewery in Slinger, WI and other brewers around the country.
President Obama should do the same with cannabis, as many Americans have been urging. Not only would it lift the nation’s spirits, provide millions of new green jobs, as well as fulfill Obama’s commitment to be true to the science, but it would also stop any more Americans from becoming victims of marijuana prohibition. Now that would be something to celebrate this April 20th!
Rep. Scott Suder (R-Abbotsford) still wants pot smokers to lose their driver's licenses, thinks they are criminals
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday April 15, 2009
As with his cynical and uncompassionate comments about the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act a year and a half ago, Rep. Scott Suder (R-Abbotsford) continues to be a reliable advocate for demonizing cannabis and those who utilize it. Today, per the Badger Herald, Suder still wants pot smokers to lose their driver's licenses, despite a prudent change in state law. Suder deserves an earful from his constituents on this!
Doyle signs bills on drug offenders, fertilizer
Governor OKs new laws to allow judges more say on non-traffic violations, 4 other legislative pieces
Source: Badger Herald (UW EDU) click here.
by Rachel Vesco
Wednesday, April 15, 2009 00:08
Gov. Jim Doyle signed five bills into law on Wednesday, changing state regulations on fertilizer and sentencing for drug offenders.
One Senate bill, introduced by Sens. Lena Taylor, D-Milwaukee, and Glenn Grothman, R-West Bend, and Reps. Tamara Grigsby, D-Milwaukee, and Fred Kessler, D-Milwaukee, will allow individual judges to decide if a person convicted of a non-traffic drug conviction would have his or her driver’s license suspended.
According to Taylor spokesperson Eric Peterson, the new law will allow people to keep working since they will be able to drive to their jobs, keeping individuals out of prison and saving taxpayers’ money.
However, Rep. Scott Suder, R-Abbotsford, who voted against the bill in the Assembly, said he disagreed, arguing the bill was soft on those who commit crime.
“If they didn’t break the law in the first place, they wouldn’t lose their license,” Suder said. “The governor loves being soft on criminals who break the law … and this is another way to do it.”
San Francisco Chronicle: Political winds shift in favor of legalized pot
Posted by Gary Storck
Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009
As a child of the 60's, I and millions of other Americans believed that cannabis would be be legalized in the 1970's. Unfortunately, the celebrating got ahead of the reality and the winds shifted in the other direction for a few decades. But now, hope is back in the air, as this SF Chronicle article explains.
Political winds shift in favor of legalized pot
Source: San Francisco Chronicle: click here
Carla Marinucci, Chronicle Political Writer
Saturday, April 11, 2009
(04-11) 20:45 PDT --
Marijuana has been a part of the American cultural landscape for nearly a century, tried by millions - including, apparently, the last three presidents and the current California governor.
So why has it taken so long to arrive at a political moment of truth - a full national debate about the legalization, taxation and regulation of cannabis?
Experts say an unprecedented confluence of factors might finally be driving a change on a topic once seen as politically too hot to handle.
Among them: the recession-fueled need for more public revenue, increased calls to redirect scarce law enforcement, court and prison resources, and a growing desire to declaw powerful and violent Mexican drug cartels. Also in the mix is a public opinion shift driven by a generation of Baby Boomers, combined with some new high-profile calls for legislation - including some well-known conservative voices joining with liberals.
Leading conservatives like former Secretary of State George Shultz and the late economist Milton Friedman years ago called for legalization and a change in the strategy in the war on drugs. This year mainstream pundits like Fox News' Glenn Beck and CNN's Jack Cafferty have publicly questioned the billions spent each year fighting the endless war against drugs and to suggest it now makes more financial and social sense to tax and regulate marijuana.
Sunday, April 5, 2009 Monday starts process for medical marijuana program
Charlie Cain / Detroit News Lansing Bureau
Lansing -- Five months after voters approved a ballot measure to allow people with "debilitating" illnesses and diseases to use marijuana, the state Monday begins taking applications for the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program.
But it will take weeks before patients can legally use marijuana.
Once state health officials receive an application for approval they have 15 days to review it. If approved, the state will then mail out a picture ID card within five days.
"We should be issuing the cards probably by the end of April," said James McCurtis, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Community Health, which will oversee the program. Michigan is the 13th state to legalize medical marijuana.
A rally is scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at Lansing's Gone Wired Café. Organizers expect as many as 200 people to attend. Buses will then take participants to the state's Ottawa Building in downtown Lansing to turn in their paperwork. It must include a certification form from a Michigan-licensed physician that the patient suffers from a medical problem covered under the new law. The registry card costs $100.
The doctor will have to vouch that a patient's pain and suffering could be lessened though marijuana use. Conditions include patients with cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C and Crohn's Disease. It also covers those with wasting syndrome, severe and chronic pain or nausea, seizures and persistent muscle spasms. It's unknown how many people will qualify for the program, although those who backed the successful petition drive placing the question before voters estimated that it could be as many as 50,000.
"Some police departments are still resisting the law," said Brad Forrester, communications director for the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, which is helping patients get marijuana.
"But judges are throwing these things our way," he said, adding that in at least three recent cases, judges have dismissed marijuana charges against people who will likely qualify under the law.
Associated Press: Michigan to start issuing IDs for medicinal pot users
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Michigan prepares to issue its first medical cannabis ID cards!
Michigan to start issuing IDs for medicinal pot users
by The Associated Press click here
Wednesday April 01, 2009, 6:44 AM
The state will begin issuing identification cards to people who want to use marijuana legally.
The Michigan Department of Community Health will issue the cards, which require users to provide a doctor's note recommending the drug for medicinal purposes. Applications can be mailed to the department starting Saturday or delivered in person Monday.
Saturday is also the deadline for the health department to finalize guidelines for the medical marijuana law approved by Michigan voters in November. It allows patients with cancer, HIV, AIDS, glaucoma and other diseases to use marijuana to relieve symptoms.
Rae Ramsdell, the health department's health professions licensing director, tells the Detroit Free Press she's heard from about 120 people seeking applications for the card or information about getting a doctor's letter.
Good news for WI drivers caught up in a federal mandate that revoked driver's licenses for any drug violation.
The Daily Cardinal click here
By: Molly Sheetz
March 25, 2009
Drug offenders could retain licenses
The Wisconsin state Assembly passed a resolution removing a federal mandate requiring automatic suspension of drug offenders’ drivers’ licenses Tuesday.
The Wisconsin state Assembly passed a joint resolution Tuesday allowing judges to decide whether drug offenders’ driver’s licenses should be suspended.
Wisconsin is the 38th state to pass a resolution that removes itself from a federal mandate requiring judges to automatically suspend or revoke driver’s licenses of convicted drug offenders.
The resolution passed with a vote of 86 to 12, a result that did not surprise state Rep. Cory Mason, D-Racine, one of the co-sponsors of the resolution.
“This is a no-brainer. This is easy. It’s just giving [offenders] more time to pay [fines],” he said. “It’s a win for municipalities, and we get people back to work.”
Although the resolution relates solely to suspensions for non-moving drug violations, supporters of the resolution hope it will help offenders keep their jobs.
State Rep. Tamara Grigsby, D-Milwaukee, said she co-sponsored the resolution because she believed it was important to get people back to work.
“This is certainly not the bill that’s going to bring us out of the recession, but it’s one that will help people maintain their jobs,” she said.
According to Eric Peterson, chief of staff for state Sen. Lena Taylor, D-Milwaukee, Taylor considered the federal policy overly restrictive and detrimental to offenders who are working to rebuild their lives.
The issue originally caught Taylor’s attention when she learned that roughly 90,000 people in Milwaukee County did not have valid driver’s licenses.
Taylor proceeded to work as the primary author of the resolution.
Peterson said the resolution does not guarantee licenses will not be suspended, but said judges will now make the decision.
“This is just one tool that is in the toolbox of keeping people driving,” Peterson said.
MI Messenger: Medical marijuana may soon be legal, but questions remain
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Michigan continues to move closer to issuing the first ID cards in their new medical cannabis program. Patients with valid doctor's recommendations have been protected since the law took effect in Dec. 2008.
Medical marijuana may soon be legal, but questions remain
Source: Michigan Messenger: click here
By Chris Killian 3/24/09 6:50 AM
State police chiefs organization director on Proposal 1 implementation: 'We don’t know what it’s going to look like. It’s new to all of us.'
In a matter of days, state residents suffering debilitating ailments and serious diseases will have a natural — and now legal — option to treat the pain and discomfort of their conditions. But on April 4, when Michigan becomes the 13th state to sanction the use of medical marijuana with a physician’s recommendation, there are some questions about the legalities of how the product will be procured.
While the Department of Community Health has outlined the rules, regulations and application requirements since voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 1 last fall, the new law is mum on where exactly patients can obtain their legal pot.
There are three options for patients: Buy it on the street, grow their own or have someone grow it for them. A registered patient will be able to possess up to 2.5 ounces of usable cannabis and up to 12 marijuana plants without facing state criminal prosecution.
But the increase in the amount of marijuana “legally” available in the state could open the door to potential abuses. Selling the drug is still illegal, according to state and federal law.
“The first year, there will be some bad press,” said John Targowski, a Kalamazoo criminal defense attorney who specializes in drug cases. “It’s going to be a maturing process. The first year or two, it’s going to be a test. But it could head in the wrong direction if we’ve got those idiots who think they can operate like a drug dealer.”
Targowski, who is a member of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws’ legal team, was speaking about caregivers, people who would assist pot patients in the cultivation of their marijuana and assist them in the delivery of the drug into their body if they can’t do so themselves. One caregiver can assist up to five patients and is protected from prosecution provided he or she does not ingest the marijuana or distribute it to a non-patient, according to the law.
And regardless of the legal protections in place for patient and caregiver alike, the initial marijuana purchase means that “someone will have to break the law,” Targowski said, referring to patients buying pot in the first place.
Tom Hendrickson, executive director of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, has worries, too.
Although he said local law enforcement agencies throughout the state have no intention of monitoring patients’ behavior, the law does “open the door to complete legalization.”
Marijuana being grown for medical use has “the potential for abuse” by non-patients, he said. “If you’ve got one caregiver growing pot for five patients, that’s 60 plants, which is a potential quasi-commercial operation. Look at your access points: If there are more gas stations and 7-11s, they are used more.”
Hendrickson said that law enforcement officials will just have to wait and see. “We’re concerned about how they’re going to implement the law. It’s going to be a learning process, and right now we don’t know what it’s going to look like. It’s new to all of us.”
Patients can’t use their marijuana in public and cannot operate cars and machinery while under the drug’s influence, the law states. They also can face stiff fines and possible jail time if they sell or furnish marijuana to those who are not registered to possess the drug.
In all cases, failure to operate within the confines of the regulations outlined in the law would lead to a permanent ban of a patient from the state’s medical marijuana registry.
Greg Francisco, executive director of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, said that medical marijuana patients will be able to meet at “compassion clubs” that have been forming over the past several months to learn more about how the drug can alleviate their symptoms.
But marijuana cannot be purchased at the meetings. “These aren’t medical marijuana hook-ups,” Francisco said. “It’s hard for marijuana to become any more available than it already is.”
Francisco said that ideally patients would grow their own cannabis.
“We’re expecting things to go smoothly,” Francisco said. “We don’t expect anything major to happen. The sky’s not going to fall. There could be a few speed bumps, though. The police have said they will respect it.”
Still, Francisco does have concerns, including so-called “grow-rippers” or other criminals who steal a crop of marijuana plants, irresponsible caregivers who sell the drugs they grow on the black market and law enforcement personnel who abuse the new law.
Proposal 1 passed with 63 percent of the vote in November, making Michigan the first state in the Midwest to have some kind of medical marijuana law. It also becomes the second-most populous of the medical marijuana states, behind California, which approved a similar ballot initiative in 1996.
The Michigan measure collected 250,000 more votes than Barack Obama did in the Great Lakes State during the November elections. It also garnered a majority of votes in every county.
Advocates are estimating that 500 applications will be filed before the law’s official introduction on April 4. Within two years, about 50,000 Michiganders are predicted to be using medical marijuana legally.
Since taking office, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has signaled a considerably more relaxed federal attitude toward the state-level sanctioning of medical marijuana. “The policy is to go after those people who violate both federal and state law, to the extent that people do that and try to use medical marijuana laws as a shield for activity that is not designed to comport with what the intention was of the state law,” the attorney general said at a press briefing last week.
In 2001 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that federal authorities had the right to prosecute marijuana sellers, regardless of state laws. Later, in 2005, justices ruled that the federal government could still ban possession of marijuana in states that have sanctioned the medical use of the drug.
(Chris Killian is a freelance journalist based in Kalamazoo and writes regularly for the Kalamazoo Gazette.)
A very patient-friendly look at Michigan's medical cannabis law.
Source: Chicago Tribune: click here
By Tim Jones | Tribune correspondent
March 20, 2009
Legal pot debuts in Midwest
As Michigan's medical marijuana law takes full effect next month, sufferers of chronic pain and other ailments cheer while police predict problems
Medical marijuana in Michigan
Ron Stephens, who has a chronic neck disorder and depression, built his own marijuana "grow room" with high-powered lights and reflective paper on the walls. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Tribune photo / March 12, 2009)
PAW PAW, Mich.—At first glance they look like old pals, maybe a bunch from the Rotary Club leisurely gabbing away over the hamburger special, making the waitress work overtime for her tip.
But these guys are different. Their eyes, their fidgeting and their restlessness betray a shared bond of chronic pain, sleepless nights, depression and a reliance on heavy-duty prescription drugs. Around this lunchtime table, they talk about the only thing that gives them a measure of peace, the only thing that, for perhaps a few hours, sets them free: marijuana.
They've been smoking or eating marijuana for years—privately and illegally. And now, because Michigan voters approved marijuana use for the treatment of certain serious maladies, Bob White soon will be able to get himself together in his Three Rivers home "without having to draw the shades."
Legalized medical marijuana is about to make its debut in Michigan, which becomes the 13th state and the first between the Rockies and the East Coast to embrace the controversial pain treatment. In a vote last November that defied the culture war/reefer madness connotation to the illegal drug, 63 percent of the state's voters—and a majority in every county—said yes to medical marijuana. The measure collected 250,000 more votes than Barack Obama, who won the state easily.
Putting marijuana in the Minnesota State Constitution?
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, March 16, 2009
MinnPost.com is reporting that due to MN Gov. Pawlenty's continuing threats to veto state medical cannabis legislation, putting it to voters as a constitutional amendment is now being considered.
Putting marijuana in the state Constitution?
By David Brauer | Monday, March 16, 2009
Source: MinnPost.com click here
The PiPress' Jason Hoppin says because of Gov. Pawlenty's implacable opposition, medical marijuana advocates may pursue a constitutional amendment. An ex-Republican legislator is pushing the possibility if the Legislature can't override the guv's likely veto this year. Both houses would have to approve putting the measure on the ballot. The non-amendment bill sets up drug dispensaries and specifically names allowed conditions, which supporters call "one of the tightest laws on the books."
Minnesota: Medical marijuana wins in another Senate committee
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
More good news out of MN as a medical cannabis bill passes another Senate committee!
Source: Minnesota Independent click here Medical marijuana wins in another Senate committee
By Andy Birkey 3/11/09 7:53 AM
The Senate Health and Human Services Budget Division heard a controversial medical marijuana bill on Tuesday. The bill would allow for severely ill patients to procure marijuana either through a nonprofit registered through the state or to grow up to 12 plants themselves. The bill passed the committee by a voice vote, but not before a grilling from Sen. Julie Rosen, R-Fairmont.
Rosen wanted to know how to measure THC content in medical marijuana, how to prevent tampering, and what the sentencing guidelines would be for abuse.
But even further, “I’m very concerned about the parameters of the products that is coming out. Who’s growing it, what is grown, what type of herbicides and pesticides are being used on the product?”
Sen. Steve Murphy, DFL-Red Wing, the chief author of the bill, said that the small number of plants, a 12-plant limit grown by the patient or by a nonprofit in a locked facility, negate the need for chemicals. “Other than Miracle Grow, I think that’s about it,” he said.
Rosen continued, “Who is controlling the quality of these plants? You are using a plant as a medicinal painkiller, and there is a lot of room for tampering.”
Murphy said, “Since this state was formed, there have been zero deaths from use of marijuana.” He pointed out that these are users of illegal marijuana, which is highly prone to tampering.
And in terms of THC content in marijuana, one of the plant’s active chemicals, Murphy said that patients control their own dosage. “There are no cases in the history of the world of anyone overdosing on marijuana and dying. I mean zero,” he said.
But after several rounds of questions, Murphy speculated on what the real concerns of opponents: that this bill would be a break from drug war policy. “You know, this country has spent billions on the war on drugs and [drug use] more prevalent than it ever has been,” he said. “This bill is simply to allow these patients to use this legally without being outside the bounds of the law.”
The bill faces its next test in the Senate Finance Committee and, if passed, will be considered by
East Bay (CA) Express: The Manhattan Project of Marijuana
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Cannabis prohibition is not conducive to quality control. Clandestine production, transport and storage often mean a less than perfect product. Now, a California dispensary is leading the way in ensuring safer medicines.
If pot is truly medicine, shouldn't it be standardized? Analytical Labs wants to test the potency and safety of Cali cannabis.
By David Downs
March 4, 2009
At downtown Oakland's Harborside Health Center, the hairy green buds have numbers. The new nomenclature beckons viewers from within seven gleaming glass display cases. Antiseptic white placards boast authoritative black digits. Each stands erect next to a Petri dish of high-octane "White Rhino" or "Afgooey Super Melt." They read: 7 percent, 11 percent, 18 percent, or 21 percent. Even 80 percent.
"80 percent THC?" asks a potential customer. He's referring to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol — the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana.
"That's a concentrate," reminds Stephen DeAngelo, proud owner of the three-year-old collective. DeAngelo's facility boasts 20,000 members and grossed more than $10 million last year. Even amid the recession, lines are a constant phenomenon and DeAngelo is looking to double his space. Hundreds of new customers sign up monthly, attracted partly by the immaculate facility: its savvy, well-paid "budtenders" and $40, eighth-ounce pot dosages. But part of the appeal is the new placards — the result of a disruptive new service by Harborside's partners at the Analytical Laboratory Project.
"For the first time in the 3,000-year history of human cannabis consumption, consumers will be provided a scientific assessment of the safety and potency of products prior to ingesting them," DeAngelo announced in December.
In the months since, DeAngelo's patrons have enjoyed mankind's most detailed product information thanks to the country's first commercial marijuana lab. Arrest and jail remain a constant worry for him and the lab's two owners. But they believe that if pot is truly medicine, it needs quality assurance and dosage information. The Analytical Laboratory Project wants to be the source of that information. The lab's ultimate goal is to provide testing for half of the 300 dispensaries in California.
Here's a nice column from the Badger Herald. I wish Mayor Dave had more respect for the clout his office carries, that as Mayor of a town with a 4-decade plus close personal relationship with cannabis, his opinion that cannabis should be legal does matter and is appreciated by most Madisonians. There are things he could do, like study what the impact of a legal cannabis market would be on Madison, or direct the City's state and federal lobbyists to lobby for cannabis law reform. This is what he does with other issues he can't address locally. Cannabis law reform would have a direct positive impact on life here. Isn't that worth more than a qualified opinion?
Being a communist executive in a hippie town, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz expressed his support for the legalization of marijuana last Friday on Pulse Madison 1670 AM. Just the previous week, it was revealed a police officer filed a report detailing how my alder, Mike Verveer (also a fire-breathing radical), was in a room of a local restaurant in which the drug was almost certainly being smoked.
Only in Madison, I guess.
Yes, in few other cities would either the mayor’s statement or the alder’s whereabouts not have done serious political damage. In most of our parochial land, giving the only reasonable opinion as to what should be the legal status of Cannabis sativa, let alone operating within a 10-foot radius of its consumption, would qualify as political masochism.
But even here in hippie-dom, having what should be a banal position on drug use still requires the most pathetic of apologies. Mayor Dave had to clean up the edges of his remarks by stating this was just his personal opinion, and he has no policy proposals that would affect marijuana’s criminalization. Meanwhile, poor Alder Verveer gave the excuse that he was recovering from the flu, which he claims affected his ability to detect the thick cloud of smoke swirling around his head.
“I didn’t see anything,” he said. “I didn’t smell anything. I didn’t use anything.”
While it’s certainly the obligation of any open-minded thinker to consider all the angles on any issue, I confess I can see about as much legitimacy in demonizing weed smoking as the claims of illegal campaigning by the victorious opponents of the new ASM Constitution. It’s a freaking plant that, among other side affects, induces a state of mellowness, introspection and heightened physical sensation. Aside from the minor toll it takes on the lungs, it’s essentially harmless. I therefore feel completely justified in referring to right-wing Dane County Executive candidate Nancy Mistele — who in response recently said she would support drug testing for pro-sanity politicians like Cieslewicz and Verveer — as a veritable square and demagogue.
Because Verveer can’t say it himself, the rest of us will have to say it for him: Whether he was aware of the marijuana or not, whether he used the marijuana or not, he did absolutely nothing wrong.
It’s a disgraceful statement on our society that the voluntary consumption of selected substances invites such viciousness and unreason. Lurking police officers interrupting an individual’s private lifestyle choice in the quiet evening harkens back to what is commonly thought of as a more intolerant American past, including the days of Prohibition and criminalization of homosexuality.
Of course, the hysteria surrounding other drugs — especially “hard drugs,” as they have been colloquially termed — is much worse. Ours is a society in which selling a few grams of white powder to a willing purchaser can earn one decades of prison time. The social stigma of non-marijuana drug use is so great its public users could never think of being treated equally. Drugs and its users have effectively been relegated to the status of “other” — they are something not to be understood or respected, but demonized as something substantively different from the rest of society.
Last year I wrote a column detailing how America’s drug war — something truly unique in the Western world — has little to do with fighting the ever-hyperbolized dangers of a few plants. Our government’s commitment to outlawing drugs is expensive, violent and, of course, impossible to win. The war instead serves as a prime justification for the maintenance and expansion of the police state and military-industrial complex. It keeps people scared of potentially rebellious and oppressed populations — namely people of color and the poor — and justifies their unequal social standing. It’s an essential tool of injustice that bolsters a status quo that is wretched for so many people.
It’s hard to see how anyone who is empathetic and rational would not instinctually feel sympathy for Verveer in his unluckiness and Cieslewicz in his forthrightness. These are people and positions with which students at this university can relate. It should never be forgotten, however, that most of the victims of America’s insane war against drugs are much less visible and endure far worse repercussions.
Kyle Szarzynski (szarzynski@badgerherald.com) is a senior majoring in history and Spanish.
SPRINGFIELD -- Chronically ill Illinois residents should be able to request a potent form of medicine: marijuana.
At least that's the contention of state lawmakers pushing medical marijuana legislation.
Lawmakers are considering a law that would allow limited amounts of marijuana to be dispensed to patients with a doctor's recommendation. Dispensaries and patients would have to register with the state's Department of Public Health before participating in the program.
If passed, the legislation would allow marijuana to be used as treatment for long-term illnesses such as AIDS, cancer, and multiple sclerosis, said state Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, the sponsor of the bill.
"This is a very controlled piece of legislation that allows people who need it, and only people who need it, to relieve their discomfort," he said.
State Rep. Frank Mautino, D-Spring Valley, did not see the need for medicinal marijuana.
"I talked to some optometrists about it for the treatment of glaucoma, and there are 50 different things they can use that don't have the after-effects to the lungs as well," he said.
The proposed legislation revisits long-running questions on marijuana's medicinal value and how the drug should be regulated.
Supporters cite a 1999 study by the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences that found that marijuana can be used to ease symptoms of chronically-ill patients.
Marijuana should still be considered a "gateway" drug, not as a medicine, according to Judy Kreamer, president of a Naperville-based drug education non-profit, Educating Voice.
"There is no such thing as a proper dosage. When was the last time you took a medication for which there was no dosage or quality control?" she said.
Politicians and law enforcement agencies at the federal and state level are unsure of how to regulate medicinal marijuana.
Federal government prohibits any marijuana use, but 13 states have legalized marijuana for medical purposes, according to Bill Piper, director of national affairs for a national organization that supports legal recreational use of marijuana.
Piper says federal and state laws cannot be reconciled, as seen last month when federal agents raided locally sanctioned medical marijuana dispensaries in California.
"The best way to solve the conflict is for the federal government to allow access to marijuana for medical use and give states broader authority to regulate," he said.
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said last week that President Barack Obama's administration will stop using federal resources to close medicinal marijuana dispensaries and give greater autonomy to states.
State Rep. Lisa Dugan, D-Bradley, said she would not support the measure unless more extensive regulations are added to limit who receives marijuana and how much they receive.
Lt. Scott Compton, spokesman for the Illinois State Police, said the proposed bill might cause complications with current DUI laws if passed. Illinois currently has a no-tolerance stand on driving with THC, marijuana's active ingredient, in the bloodstream.
The proposed bill allows medical marijuana users to have THC in their bloodstream so long as it was "insufficient" to cause impairment, which could be difficult to determine without a benchmark, he said.
State Rep. Pat Verschoore, D-Milan wants strict regulations to discourage abuse, but says he understands the appeal of medical marijuana.
"I had some family members who had to take chemotherapy -- they got as sick as a dog. They didn't smoke marijuana, but if that would have helped them, I would have certainly thought it was appropriate," he said.
Cieslewicz would make it alright to smoke weed if the decision was within his power
Speaking on the radio station Pulse Madison 1670 AM Friday, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said if he was granted the option, he would make marijuana legal.
In a phone interview with radio show "Sly in the Morning," Cieslewicz was asked about a pending issue concerning Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4.
Madison police officer Carrie Hemming found Verveer and Zander's owner Mohamed Barkatallah sitting in the dimly lit top level of Barkatallah's bar last month where she allegedly smelled marijuana. She left the bar without saying a word to Verveer.
"Trying to make the case, I basically said, 'Look, if it were up to me, marijuana would not be illegal, but it's not up to me,'" Cieslewicz said.
According to Cieslewicz, wanting to legalize marijuana is not a policy proposal from his office.
To become legal, the issue would need to be handled on a state level, Cieslewicz said. He added the city has to focus its attention on more important issues.
Rachel Strauch-Nelson, spokesperson for Cieslewicz, said legalizing marijuana is not a pending decision in the city. If the mayor had more say about the issue, he would probably be pursuing the matter, she added.
"I think it's some sort of statement of his opinion," Strauch-Nelson said.
Regarding the Verveer incident, Cieslewicz said the issue has been covered thoroughly, and it is now in the past.
Ald. Michael Schumacher, District 18, a member of the Alcohol License Review Committee, said though he never used marijuana, he has no moral issue with the drug and no issue with people consuming it in their own proximity.
If marijuana were to be legalized, Schumacher said he would want the conditions placed on alcohol - such as no use while driving or operating heavy machinery - placed on marijuana use.
"If [marijuana] doesn't lead to heavier drug use and it doesn't lead to unacceptable behavior in public, it certainly helps save resources and [not] criminalize behavior," he added. "I don't think it really harms anybody."
Cieslewicz agreed, saying there is not much evidence marijuana is harmful.
However, Nancy Mistele, challenger in the race for Dane County Executive said she is confused why Cieslewicz would want to legalize marijuana.
According to Mistele, Cieslewicz and all members of the City Council maybe should be subject to drug testing, adding it is the responsibility of elected officials to uphold the law.
In the 2007-08 Legislature, a bill to legalize medical marijuana in Wisconsin was devised and spoken about in an information hearing. However, the bill was not brought to a vote in either house and has yet to be reintroduced.
"[Marijuana] is certainly widely used in this country for quite a while, and I don't see the point in continuing to make it illegal," Cieslewicz said.
Verveer declined to comment on the issue.
Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk and Madison Police Chief Noble Wray could not be reached for comment.
Wisconsin State Journal: Legalize marijuana? 'I don't have a problem with it at all,' says Cieslewicz
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Interesting article out of today's State Journal.
Legalize marijuana? 'I don't have a problem with it at all,' says Cieslewicz
By SANDY CULLEN Wisconsin State Journal
Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said on a radio talk show Friday that if it were up to him, marijuana would be legal.
"I don’t have a problem with it at all," Cieslewicz said on the "Sly In The Morning" show on WTDY-AM (1670).
But mayoral spokeswoman Rachel Strauch-Nelson said Monday that "it was just a personal opinion" and "not a policy initiative of any kind."
"I thank him for his candor, but I’m disappointed he’s not willing to take it any farther," said Gary Storck. co-founder of the Madison chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.
"This is a city that’s known for cannabis — why not run with it?" Storck said, adding that it would be better than Madison being known for alcohol intoxication. "If it’s legal, the city could benefit from all the green businesses that would grow up around it."
Cieslewicz made the comment while discussing a recent incident at a State Street lounge where a Madison police officer said she smelled burnt marijuana but failed to investigate further after she saw Downtown Ald. Mike Verveer. Officer Carrie Hemming was given a letter of reprimand.
"It doesn’t matter what I think," Cieslewicz said. "What matters is what is legal and illegal now."
On March 2, 2005, the Madison NORML blog was launched, with a post about an upcoming meeting. Other March 2005 posts noted Madison NORML's first medical cannabis lobby day at the State Capitol and a medical cannabis benefit at Cafe Montmarte. 4 years later, both Madison NORML, with well over a hundred meetings and other events held since August 2004, and our blog, with over 400 posts, are going strong.
Capital Times editorial: An embarrassed Police Department
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, February 27, 2009
My favorite part of the Capital Times editorial below is Number 3.
Source: Capital Times click here
Pubdate: Feb 27, 2009
EDITORIAL: AN EMBARRASSED POLICE DEPARTMENT
The comedy of errors involving the Madison Police Department, Ald. Mike Verveer and the supposed smell of marijuana would have been just that -- a comedy of errors -- if it did not remind us of the need for the Police Department to get focused on its actual mission.
Let's get a few things clear:
1. There is no evidence that Verveer did anything wrong. And there never was. Any attempt to suggest that there is a cloud over the downtown alder -- and any attempt to alter his role with the city's Alcohol License Review Committee -- would be pure politics of the worst kind.
2. There is no evidence that marijuana was being used by anyone at the State Street lounge, where Madison police officer Carrie Hemming saw Verveer and thought she smelled something. Hemming acknowledges that she saw no illegal activity, saw no drug-related paraphernalia, and did not conduct an investigation. If she did, indeed, smell marijuana, the odor could have come from the coat of a passing customer.
3. There is no reason to be particularly concerned about the smell of marijuana or the presence of marijuana in Madison. This city has, for the better part of four decades, adopted the view that possession and use of the substance should be decriminalized. And if a poll were conducted, we are quite certain that most Madisonians would prefer that -- in instances where everyone who might be involved is an adult -- police officers always walk away when they smell marijuana.
So there is no problem with Verveer.
And there is not much problem with Officer Hemming, although she received a reprimand for not following department procedures.
But there is a problem with a police department that seems so frequently to struggle when it has serious matters to deal with -- like murders and patterns of downtown assaults -- but seems to have plenty of time and energy to produce and circulate after-the-fact reports about incidents that were not investigated and did not matter.
The Madison Police Department has embarrassed itself, badly.
Chief Noble Wray and his team should take a deep breath, review this incident and figure out how to make sure that the focus is on serious crime fighting rather than petty gossip.
New Jersey Gov. Corzine says he will sign medical cannabis bill
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine has again reiterated he will sign the medical cannabis legislation now halfway through the New Jersey legislature. Hopefully, NJ state lawmakers will get it done quickly, so patients don't have to wait any longer.
Corzine says he will sign medical marijuana bill
Source: NJ.com: click here
New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine said he will "absolutely" sign a medical marijuana bill for chronically and terminally ill patients if it gets to his desk.
Corzine, a Democrat running for re-election, made the comments Wednesday morning on WNYC radio's "Brian Lehrer Show."
He told Lehrer the law could be structured so patients are comfortable and there are safeguards against abuses.
The Senate approved the bill Monday. It faces an uncertain fate in the Assembly.
Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-LedgerGov. Jon Corzine
Thirteen states have medical marijuana laws on the books. All but four came about because of voter referendums. In New Jersey, the Legislature must change the law.
Corzine also said on the show that the $17 billion-plus in federal stimulus money headed to New Jersey will generate or protect 100,000 jobs.
He told Lehrer that the jobs tally includes keeping police officers, firefighters and teachers who might have been laid off in the deepening recession.
The governor and the Legislature will have little control over most of the money, including $7.5 billion in tax breaks, Corzine said.
Much of the $10 billion or so in spending is earmarked for programs like Medicaid or the unemployment insurance fund.
Corzine said a screening process will be set up for discretionary spending on projects like clean energy and road and bridge repairs.
New Jersey State Senate passes Medical Cannabis bill 22-16!
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, February 23, 2009
Today is a great day for NJ patients and their families and friends along with medical cannabis supporters everywhere! Today, the NJ Senate passed medical cannabis legislation by a vote of 22-16. The bill now proceeds on to the NJ State Assembly.
Letter in Capital Times: Medical cannabis effective for elderly
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Here's a quick letter I penned in response to a letter about overmedication and the elderly.
Source: Capital Times click here
Published: Sunday, Feb. 22, 2009
Medical cannabis effective for elderly
Dear Editor:
Problems due to overmedication of seniors are just one more reason why Wisconsin needs to join Michigan and 12 other states in passing comprehensive medical cannabis legislation. As noted by Ann Albert in her recent letter, medication management is vital for senior citizens.
Physicians and scientific researchers have found medical cannabis effective in managing symptoms and treating illness associated with aging. Medical cannabis has a number of properties that make it ideal for senior citizens. Nontoxic cannabis works synergistically with other medications, allowing patients to reduce or eliminate doses of conventional medications, reducing side effects. Cannabis can replace multiple meds: it treats many ailments common to older folks, like glaucoma, arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic pain. Cannabis protects the brain against trauma from stroke or falls.
Wisconsin seniors and other patients who can benefit now from medical cannabis should not have to risk arrest and jail for something not only safer, but legally available to 25 percent of Americans under these compassionate state laws. Wisconsinites and groups that care about the health of state residents need to contact Gov. Jim Doyle and their lawmakers and ask them to pass medical cannabis legislation this session.
CMMJ: New Jersey Senate to Vote on Medical Marijuana Mon., 2/23/09
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, February 18, 2009
Cheryl Miller's dream of medical cannabis for New Jersey patients is moving closer to reality!
New Jersey Senate to Vote on Medical Marijuana Mon., 2/23/09
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more info, contact: Ken @ (609) 394-2137
New Jersey Senate to Vote on Medical Marijuana
WHO: State Senators in New Jersey
WHAT: Will vote on the New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act
(S119)
WHEN: Monday February 23, 2009 at 2:00 PM
WHERE: Senate Chambers of the New Jersey State House in Trenton, NJ
WHY: To advance a bill that will protect seriously ill or injured New Jersey patients who use therapeutic marijuana on the advice of a licensed physician.
The New Jersey State Senate will vote on the _New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act" (S119) _ (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/BillView.asp?BillNumber=S119) on Monday, February 23, 2009 at 2:00 PM in the State House Senate Chambers in Trenton, NJ. Many supporters of the bill plan to attend the voting session, led by the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ). New Jersey would become the 14th state in the nation to legalize medical marijuana by passing this legislation into law.
S119 will remove the state penalties for the possession, use and cultivation of a small amount of marijuana when a licensed physician recommends it for a debilitating medical condition. Qualifying medical conditions include chronic pain, cancer, AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, etc. Patients will be issued ID cards in a program run by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). Patients will be permitted to grow up to six plants and possess one ounce of marijuana, but they will not be permitted to use their therapeutic marijuana in public or while operating motor vehicles. Patients may designate a caregiver or treatment center to grow the plants for them, but the caregiver/center must also register with DHSS. CMMNJ Executive Director, Ken Wolski, RN said, “The bill is very conservative. No medical marijuana state has a smaller plant limit or possession amount. Still, it will help a tremendous number of patients here.” The American Nurses Association, the American College of Physicians, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the American Public Health Association, the American Academy of HIV Medicine and many other professional healthcare organizations have endorsed medical marijuana.
S119 was originally introduced by Senator Nicholas Scutari, D-Linden, in January 2005, and was referred to the senate health committee. Hearings were conducted on the bill in June 2006 and in December 2008, at which time the bill was favorably released out of committee by a 6 – 1 vote. If the bill passes in the senate, it will then go to the assembly for votes by the health committee and the entire assembly. Governor Jon Corzine has said on several occasions that he supports medical marijuana and that he will sign the bill when it gets to his desk.
CMMNJ, 501(c)(3) public charity, provides education about the benefits of safe and legal access to medical marijuana. For more info, contact:
Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director
Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc.
844 Spruce St., Trenton, NJ 08648
609.394.2137 _www.cmmnj.org_ (http://www.cmmnj.org/) _ohamkrw@aol.com_
Watch and listen live online the day of the vote around 2:00 p.m. at: (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/media/live_audio.asp) or (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/media/archive_audio2.asp?KEY=S&SESSION=2008).
The vote will also be recorded and archived on the NJ legislature’s homepage at: (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/media/archive_audio2.asp?KEY=S&SESSION=2008) if you can’t be by your computer at that time and day.
NM adds 7 conditions to medical marijuana coverage
By The Associated Press
Posted: 02/16/2009 03:52:46 PM MST
SANTA FE — The state Department of Health is adding seven conditions to coverage under the state's medical marijuana program.
Patients can apply if they have painful peripheral neuropathy, intractable nausea or vomiting, severe anorexia/cachexia, hepatitis C infection if that's also receiving antiviral treatment, Crohn's disease, post-traumatic stress disorder and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, better known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
Health Secretary Dr. Alfredo Vigil said Monday the conditions were added based on recommendations of the department's Medical Advisory Boards and scientific findings that the conditions could be helped by medical cannabis.
The board recommended adding eight conditions, but Vigil turned down fibromyalgia, saying there wasn't enough evidence that medical marijuana is effective for it.
Revised Michigan medical cannabis rules "much better"
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, February 16,2009
In about a month and a half, the state of Michigan will begin issuing medical cannabis ID cards to patients and caregivers. Here's an update on the program rules.
Monday, February 16,2009
Marijuana Journal
Revised medical marijuana rules much better
by Greg Francisco
The revised rules for the state medical marijuana program were released last week and we could not be more pleased.
Gone from the new rules are the objectionable provisions contained in the Dec 5 draft. Gross violations of patient privacy, plant production logs and inventories, defining private homes as public space are all gone.
As commented upon in an earlier column, the Dec. 5 rules did not match with the law voters approved in November. Nowhere in the law was it envisioned that patients would be forced to disclose private information to authorities, that patients cultivating their own medicine would be subject to random searches, nor that they be compelled to hand over to law enforcement written documentation of their inventories, which was equivalent to documenting a federal crime. The state Department of Community Health was put on notice at the Jan. 5 hearing by medical marijuana patients and advocates that it was overreaching its authority.
Fortunately, state administrators were willing to listen and talk to leaders within our activist community. Over the last six weeks, there has been considerable discussion as both sides sought common ground. And we really did agree on much more than we disagreed. We all want to live in an orderly society — no one wants to arrest or exploit cancer patients. We all agree that like or loathe the law, it is the law. It is in everyone’s best interest that implementation goes smoothly.
The revised Administrative rules much more accurately reflect the will of the voters. Patient privacy is protected, common sense prohibitions on using marijuana in public are preserved and sensible limits are put on the possession, transfer and use of medical marijuana. But the bottom line is that patients and caregivers who stay within the limits of the law will be protected from arrest and harassment. And that is exactly what voters approved.
To learn more about the rights and responsibilities of patients under the Michigan Medical Marijuana program visit our Web site, www.MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org.
One year ago today: asking Bill Clinton, "Whee's Jacki's Medicine?"
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, February 14, 2009
It seems so long ago, but it was just a year ago today that Ben Masel and I ventured out to the UW Stock Pavilion on a freezing cold day to ask Bill Clinton, "Where's Jacki's Medicine?"
Clinton had promised Jacki at a 1992 campaign stop that if elected, she would get her medicine. As Dick Cowan once observed, "what a difference it would have made if Clinton had won.
Here is the original entry: 16 years later, Bill Clinton finally gets asked, “Where’s Jacki’s Medicine?”click here.
Here is a follow up: Bill Clinton claims not to remember 1992 campaign encounter with Jacki Rickertclick here.
Minnesota Independent: Medical marijuana bill advances in Senate with moving testimony
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, February 12, 2009
On Wednesday Feb. 11, Minnesota's latest medical cannabis bill, S.F. 97, passed the Senate Health, Housing and Family Security Committee in a bipartisan vote of 8 to 3, despite veto threats from the Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, a Republican.
Medical marijuana bill advances in Senate with moving testimony
MN Independent: click here.
By Andy Birkey 2/12/09 3:33 PM
It was a tear-filled room at a meeting of the Health, Housing and Family Security Committee as senators heard testimony about how medical marijuana had helped loved ones live in less pain during the last few days of their lives. But after those tears, the hearing devolved into a strange round of testimony as opponents pulled out all the stops to blame marijuana for higher crime rates and the downfall of the family, and one testified that medical marijuana is a scheme by billionaire George Soros to make drugs legal.
Dr. George Wagoner, a physician in Virginia, Minn., broke down as he described the trials he and his wife suffered as she struggled with ovarian cancer. They had tried Marinol, a prescription made of synthetic THC, one of the more than 60 active compounds in marijuana.
After the couple tried everything, they turned to friends after hearing about medical marijuana. Soon after, a bag of marijuana mysteriously appeared on their doorstep. After smoking a small amount, he said his wife “experienced sudden and complete relief from her nausea.”
Choking back tears, he said, “Eating lunch isn’t a big deal until you can’t … The relief was as complete and dramatic as any I’ve experienced in my practice.”
Joni Whiting described how marijuana helped her daughter, a wife and mother of three, deal with the pain of cancer during the last days of her life.
“I can tell you with conviction that I would have no problem going to jail for acquiring medical marijuana for my suffering child,” said Whiting. “The law is unjust. And I would have rather spent the rest of my life in prison than have denied her the medicine that kept her pain at bay and allowed her to live 89 more days.”
She spoke of her family, their service to the country (Whiting is a Vietnam veteran and one of her sons recently completed an 18-month tour in Iraq) and her reluctance to allow an illegal drug in her home. “What would you have done had you been in my shoes?” Whiting asked. “Could you sleep at night when your child was screaming in pain?”
Kathy Rippentrop spoke of her mother, who used marijuana when she suffered debilitating pain as a result of cancer. “Two puffs, two minutes, and the violent sickness was totally gone,” she said. “An hour later, Mom was able to have a good meal. The stomach problems from the chemo were totally gone. It also helped her regain a quality of life that allowed her to continue to fight.”
By MARK BRUNSWICK and BOB von STERNBERG, Star Tribune
February 11, 2009
Backers of medical marijuana want the face of Stephanie Whiting-Shadinger to be one of those Minnesota lawmakers remember as debate resumes at the State Capitol on allowing some patients to use the now-illegal drug.
Whiting-Shadinger died in 2003 at age 26, suffering from malignant melanoma that required experimental treatments, chemotherapy and 10 surgeries. Daily doses of pain killers failed to relieve her misery.
Joni Whiting, a suburban grandma from Jordan, will be testifying today in a Senate committee that she reluctantly abandoned her anti-drug sentiments and went along with her daughter smoking marijuana in her final days. And she's glad she did.
Opposition to legalizing medicinal marijuana remains strong among those concerned about its effects on drug abuse. But supporters hope new strategies can build support for their cause.
Like nothing else, Joni Whiting said, marijuana eased some of her daughter's pain and restored some of her appetite. She lived three months longer than doctors predicted, smiled for the first time in months and was able to eat a mushroom and cheese omelette the day before she died.
Before her daughter's illness, Whiting said, "I looked at people talking about medical marijuana as the potheads, lazy people wanting to smoke pot and sit on the couch all day. My daughter was living proof that this plant is a miracle plant and it worked.
"She smiled again and she played with her children. It was a miracle what happened to my daughter from the moment she smoked that pot."
It's stories like those -- from people no one would expect to sing marijuana's praises -- that supporters hope will persuade legislators to add Minnesota to the list of 13 states that permit some form of medicinal use of marijuana. The proposal, debated repeatedly in recent years, has gained support among legislators but has been blocked by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
Pawlenty spokesman Brian McClung said the governor remains opposed but would reconsider if law enforcement officials do.
Marijuana Journal reports MI physicians slow to recommend medical cannabis so far
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, February 9, 2009
More on the implementation of Michigan's new medical cannabis law which passed in every county in MI last November, outpolling President Obama by 10%.
Marijuana Journal
by Greg Francisco
Monday, February 9,2009
Physicians are gatekeepers for entry into the state medical marijuana program. Patients wishing to use medical cannabis to treat the symptoms of disease or debilitating condition must obtain a recommendation from a physician — this is not subject to review or second-guessing. It may not be overridden by any government agency.
Naturally, there is confusion and concern about how this is supposed to work. Doctors are unsure what constitutes a legitimate recommendation; they worry about liability when recommending a drug not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. And how do you ensure consistency in dosage, purity and strength?
The Michigan Medical Marijuana Act stipulates doctors shall not be subject to sanction for writing medical cannabis recommendations. In Conant v. Walters (2003), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled doctor-patient privacy rights protect discussions of medical marijuana and that recommendations are protected free speech. The confidentiality provisions contained in the state law protect doctors as well as patients; the state maintains no list of doctors writing recommendations. Physicians cannot lose their license to prescribe medications for writing medical marijuana recommendations.
Finding physicians willing to assess patients for a medical marijuana recommendation is turning out to be difficult for many patients. Almost daily I hear from patients with the same question, “Where do I find a doctor that will evaluate me for a medical cannabis recommendation?” Thus far, only one clinic in the state is openly accepting new patient referrals for medical marijuana assessments: the THC-F clinic in Southfield.
A few family doctors have begun quietly writing recommendations for old patients. Most, however, are either refusing or taking a wait-and-see attitude. Many erroneously believe that the law, which actually took effect Dec. 5, is on hold until the state publishes final rules in April.
The most troubling reports concern patients being dismissed from practices for simply asking their physicians about medical marijuana. While rare, it is happening. Recently, I spoke with a woman in Antrim County with epilepsy; on another day it was a man in Grand Rapids with heart disease. Each had asked their doctor about medical marijuana and both were dismissed just for asking. This is unconscionable and unethical but apparently legal.
For up to date information visit our Web site, www.MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org. Appointments with the THC-F clinic may be scheduled at: www.thc-foundation.
AP: Medical marijuana bill returns to Minn. Capitol
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, February 8, 2009
The Minnesota Legislature is again seeing medical cannabis legislation in motion as the new session's bill gets a Senate hearing this Wednesday.
Medical marijuana bill returns to Minn. Capitol
Associated Press - February 8, 2009 1:24 PM ET
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A plan to let seriously ill patients smoke pot is back at the Minnesota Legislature.
The bill from Sen. Steve Murphy, DFL-Red Wing, gets its first hearing of the session in a Senate health panel on Wednesday.
The legislation would allow those with cancer, AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and other debilitating conditions to use marijuana to control pain and other symptoms. The Health Department would keep a registry of authorized medical marijuana users.
Gov. Tim Pawlenty has stood against the proposal and has said it would make enforcing drug laws harder.
Lawmakers have considered medical marijuana bills going back a decade, without signing off. Two years ago, the full Senate passed the bill.
If we can learn anything from the recent troubles of Michael Phelps, it's that marijuana should not be illegal in the U.S.
By Cole Wenzel The Daily Cardinal
Until Wednesday, I was going to keep my mouth shut about the media’s obsession with Michael Phelps hitting a bong. But, in the midst of my Digging, I found an article on CNN.com titled “Police Looking to Charge Michael Phelps for Smoking Pot.” This has gone too far—much too far. Are the police really going to charge an Olympian for recreational marijuana smoking, something that allegedly happened all the way back in November? Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott claims, “If someone breaks a law in Richland County, we have an obligation as law enforcement to investigate and to bring charges.” Must we pry further into this “mistake” that our beloved, smiling, gold-medal winning, American swimmer made at some college party? Let’s not forget that some time back in 2004 Phelps had to suffer 18 months probation for a DUI charge. So, it is clear that Phelps is no stranger to the occasional substance abuse—as few of us are that attend college at prestigious Big Ten institutions (Phelps did at Michigan). The powers that be are blowing this out of proportion. It is completely absurd to be taking such drastic and hostile action as investigating such an act, a mostly harmless one at that, which took place three months ago.
What’s more, the goofy dolphin-man has already issued his apology, citing the behavior as “regrettable.” On the Fox News program “Red Eye” the other day, the commentators began discussion of this incident and came to the careful conclusion that Phelps even had a good “bong stance,” clearly indicating that he is no novice to the likes of the Schedule I substance.
Let us examine the situation logically. Michael Phelps willingly and knowingly smoked a bong, supposedly some time in November. Recently, a British tabloid got ahold of a photograph of Michael Phelps in the act. This would have to mean that someone at the party, perhaps an acquaintance of Phelps, snapped the photograph and, later, someone submitted the photo for print in the paper. Now published, the world has freaked out and cannot believe that swimming’s poster boy would commit such a horrible act. Naturally, being an intelligent businessman and public relations person, Phelps has thoroughly apologized for his heinous act. This is where everything should have stopped—even university police and Columbia, South Carolina, police have decided not to pursue any charges. But the damn sheriff’s department is simply too just of an institution to let this slide.
What really comes out of this whole debacle is the fact that the most winning Olympian in history not only drinks (as the DUI showed us), but also indulges in marijuana from time to time. If Phelps, the amazing role model and inspiration for Americans, can do the amazing things he does and still smoke some pot, perhaps we need to reconsider our stance on the issue of marijuana use.
Currently, marijuana sits on the top of the list of America’s worst drugs. The DEA drug-scheduling system, which came about in the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, was an early part of Nixon’s War on Drugs, which we still wage today. The system is composed of a five-part scheduling system, ranging from I through V, I being most severe. The definition of a Schedule I drug is as follows: a) The drug or other substance has a high potential for abuse, b) The drug or other substance has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, c) There is no provision for safe use of the drug or other substance under medical supervision.
There are currently 13 states where medical marijuana is legal under state law. Clearly, marijuana does not meet the criteria of a Schedule I drug. Other drugs on this list include heroin and ecstasy (MDMA). What may be more alarming, though, is the fact that the Schedule II, a lesser classification, includes such drugs as cocaine and opium. Logically, marijuana should not hold such stern unlawful status.
I think it is time for our nation to recognize the relevance of Michael Phelps’ marijuana use. He is the embodiment of a great American. He possesses great willpower, determination and perhaps greatest of all, he has a hell of a work ethic. If such an individual chooses to recreationally use marijuana, maybe as an alternative to drinking alcohol, and can still reach the monumental pedestals that he does, then perhaps it is time we consider a more logical approach to this legal travesty.
Kalmazoo MM Compassion Club forms as Michigan patients implement new law
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Wisconsin patients have to be heartened by recent progress in Michigan. As medical cannabis goes mainstream, how long can it be before the entire Midwest is safe and legal for patients who can benefit?
Source: Kalamazoo Weekly click here
Kalmazoo MM Compassion Club forms
By J. Anderson
Kalamazoo now has a Medical Marijuana Compassion Club that meets at the Oshtemo branch of the Kalamazoo Public Library bi-weekly. Compassion Clubs inform, teach, and most importantly, support patients.
At the first local meeting Monday, February 2nd, supporters discussed the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act of 2008, qualifying conditions, obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation, talk-ing with your doctor, becoming a caregiver, finding a caregiver, and enrolling in the MMM program.
MMC Clubs have sprung up all over the state of Michigan since the passing of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act in 2008. Several club meetings are being held in Paw Paw, Coloma, Kalamazoo, Cheboygan, Traverse City, Bay City, Monroe, Mount Pleasant, Grand Rapids, Owosso, Flint, Escanaba, Manistee, Marquette, Wayne County and Ann Arbor. The clubs are sponsored by the MMM Association, the largest, patient advocacy group in the state. The first Compassion Club meeting was held in January at Hydrobiz in Lansing.
Patients find out about these clubs by notices on the MMM website and word-of-mouth. Greg Francisco, Southwest Michigan coordinator for MINORML, says that patients get the “same thing they would get out of any patient group, support.” He goes on to say that they won’t get medical marijuana or seeds to grow plants for medicinal purposes.
“It is a private medical matter and patients owe no one any explanation,” said Francisco, “patients may still rightly fear the stigma (of smoking marijuana), but they no longer need fear agents of their own government.”
Caregivers that assist and support patients are also involved in the MMC Clubs. Caregivers are not growers as one might think; according to Francisco “being a caregiver means assisting the patients with his or her total medical needs, not just as it relates to medical marijuana.”
Locally, the Oshtemo Library Branch was chosen for its location, (it is easy to find, right off US-131) as organizers came from Berrien County, Holland, Three Rivers and Grand Rapids to learn how to launch their own MMC Clubs.
The MMM Association was organized as an umbrella group serving the entire state of Michigan. The MMM Act prohibits smoking medical marijuana in public and smoking the substance is outlawed inside public buildings in Michigan.
“These meetings are a place where people who have lived in the shadows for too long can finally come together and openly support each other,” said Francisco.
Medical marijuana picks up GOP support in MN House
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Midwest moves closer to medical cannabis as Minnesota's bill gains more support!
Medical marijuana picks up GOP support in MN House
Source: Minnesota Independent: click here
By Andy Birkey 2/4/09 8:51 AM
Scott Beale / Laughing Squid
Marijuana is back in the news this week after Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps is threatened with criminal charges for toking at a party and three Minnesota House Republicans sign on to a bill relax criminal penalties for users of medicinal marijuana.
Rep. Mark Buesgens, R-Jordan; Bob Gunther, R-Fairmont; and Tom Hackbarth, R-Cedar, are the three Republicans comprising a bipartisan slate of support to make Minnesota the 14th state to allow medical marijuana. Buesgens and Gunther are new to the bill, which saw similar bipartisan support last session. Hackbarth is a big supporter, having seen how it helped members of his family who were dying of cancer.
Rep. Tom Rukavina, DFL-Virginia, is the lead author on the bill, and coauthor support has doubled from last year with 29 legislators backing the bill.
The medical marijuana bill, and its companion bill in the Senate, are expected to do well in the Minnesota Legislature, but could face a shaky future if it arrives on Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s desk. As shaky a future as Phelps career? Let’s hope both do just fine.
The list of bill sponsors include:
Rep. Mark Buesgnes (R-Jordan), Rep. Anthony Sertich (DFL-Chisholm), Rep. Thomas Huntley (DFL-Duluth), Rep. Tom Hackbarth (R-Cedar), Rep. Bob Gunther (R-Fairmont), Rep. Michael Paymar (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Cy Thao (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Lyndon Carlson, Sr. (DFL-Crystal), Rep. Tim Mahoney (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Bill Hitly (DFL-Finlayson), Rep. Kent Eken (DFL-Twin Valley), Rep. Will Morgan (DFL-Bursnville), Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Minneapolis), Rep. Leon Lille (DFL-North St. Paul), Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Minneapolis), Rep. Larry Haws (DFL-St. Cloud), Rep. Sheldon Johnson (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. Jeff Hayden (DFL-Minneapolis), Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South St. Paul), Rep. Al Juhnke (DFL-Willmar), Rep. Dianne Loeffler (DFL-Minneapolis), Rep. Linda Slocum (DFL-Richfield), Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Minneapolis), Rep. Erin Murphy (DFL-St. Paul), Rep. David Bly (DFL-Northfield)
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel: Published letter: It’s time to make pot legal and taxable
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
I guess I must be feeling better after recent eye surgery, as I penned this letter which the Journal-Sentinel published, my first in the J-S since 2002.
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel click here
Pubdate: 3 Feb 2009
MARIJUANA
IT’S TIME TO MAKE POT LEGAL AND TAXABLE
Who cares if Olympian Michael Phelps was photographed enjoying cannabis? (“Phelps apologizes for photo,” Feb. 2)
In light of everything else going on in the world, the real issue is why is this still an issue? Millions are jobless and facing foreclosures, climate change is wreaking havoc, billions in bailout funds are being diverted and misspent, while a few prudes moralize about how Phelps celebrates victory.
It’s time to stop imprisoning our citizenry for this noble herb, legalize it and use the tax revenues to help our country.
Gary Storck
VP, Wisconsin chapter, National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana
Laws (NORML)
Madison
Wisconsin Radio Network: Phelps furor: totally bogus?
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, February 2, 2009
The appearance of a photo taken last fall of multi-gold medal Olympian Michael Phelps apparently taking a hit of cannabis from a bong has helped trigger a discussion of cannabis prohibition!
Michael Phelps tokes up . . . should we care? An image of the Olympic gold medal swimmer taking a bong hit is all over the media.
"Hyperbolic and hysterical" is how Gary Storck with the Madison chapter of NORML characterizes the coverage. "Three out of four college students have used marijuana," says Storck. "It's nothing out of the ordinary. I think the most egregious part of it is whoever snapped his picture, and violated his privacy like that."
Storck says it's past time to decriminalize marijuana in Wisconsin. "We have a 5-point-4 billion dollar budget deficit," he notes. "Can we continue to enforce marijuana laws, where we're targeting people for small amounts and putting them in jail? I don't think a lot of people understand that a second offense for cannabis in Wisconsin, any amount, is a felony."
Storck notes that cannabis is not a performance enhancing drug, and Michael Phelps apparently tested clean for the Olympics. In a statement, the 23 year-old Phelps said his pot smoking "was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment."
Marijuana activist's case against UW police officers ends in hung jury
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, January 28, 2009
The Capital Times filed this report on the Masel v. Mansavage case.
Marijuana activist's case against UW police officers ends in hung jury
Kevin Murphy
The Capital Times click here
January 28, 2009
An excessive force lawsuit brought against two University of Wisconsin-Madison police officers by marijuana activist Ben Masel, 55, of Madison, ended Tuesday night in a hung jury.
After a two-day trial, the seven-person jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on whether Officers Mike Mansavage and John McCaughtry used more force than necessary when arresting Masel for trespassing at the Memorial Union in June 2006.
Masel had been soliciting signatures to get on the ballot for the U.S. Senate while on a sidewalk near the Memorial Terrace, an area not designated for such activity by UW policy. Masel refused to leave the area when requested by Memorial Union event managers who then called UW police to enforce the policy.
Masel alleged he was pepper sprayed and "brutally handcuffed," when arrested. He sued the officers alleging use of excessive force. He also sued the Memorial Union employees and the UW Board of Regents claiming their policy, which limits political activity of uninvited guests to the sidewalk in front of the union, infringed on his free speech rights and was unconstitutional.
District Judge John Shabaz dismissed Masel's constitutional claim, citing case law that allows public universities to restrict activities of uninvited guests on their property as long as the policy is applied equally to all individuals. Shabaz allowed the excessive force claim to go to trial.
District Judge Rudolph Randa, from the Eastern District of Wisconsin, tried the case replacing Shabaz, who retired to part-time status in December after being on medical leave since February.
Jurors deliberated about four hours Tuesday night before telling Randa they were unable to reach a verdict. Randa dismissed them. The case hasn't be rescheduled for trial.
Masel's attorney, Jeff Scott Olson, said he looks forward to retrying the excessive force claim and is considering an appeal of the dismissal of the free speech claim.
McCaughtry is still employed by UW Police, while Mansavage left last year and is presently employed as a police officer by the town of Madison, according to William Cosh, spokesman for Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.
Green Bay area cannabis prohibition related robbery and shooting?
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, January 29, 2009
It appears the lack of a regulated market caused by the prohibition of cannabis has led to violence in the Green Bay area.
January 28, 2009
Suspect's mother 'stunned' by Allouez shooting
By Andy Nelesen
Gannett Wisconsin Media click here
The mother of an 18-year-old man accused in a weekend drug-related shooting says she can't believe her son is involved in an attempted murder.
"This does not sound like my son," said Vera Foster of Green Bay. "This is not the child I raised. I'm still stunned. I don't know what's going on."
Foster's son, Marcus Johnson, was arrested early Tuesday in connection to the shooting of a 32-year-old Milwaukee man inside an Allouez townhouse. The victim was shot in the right rear hip in what authorities believe was a drug deal gone bad.
A medical cannabis Midwest inches closer and this editorial can only help spread the word!
Published on mndaily.com - Serving the University of Minnesota Since 1900 (http://www.mndaily.com) click here
Pass medical pot bill
The medical marijuana bill has two Republican co-authors and support for it looks promising.
EDITORIAL BOARD
PUBLISHED: 01/27/2009
State Sen. Steve Murphy, DFL-Red Wing, authored a bill (SF 97) that would legalize the medical use of marijuana and the Health, Housing and Family Security Committee is slated to debate it Feb. 11, said the committee’s administrator, Laura Blubaugh. Only imprudent lawmakers would refuse to support this smart legislation.
If enacted into law, the bill allows patients in incapacitating pain respite from the often dangerously addictive and ineffective market painkillers like OxyContin and Vicodin. For inane cultural and political reasons, it’s much more acceptable to peddle these veritable drugs than the less lethal pot. Indeed, according to the Drug Abuse Warning Network , a health surveillance network which monitors causes of death, in 2004 — the last year in which data were available — at least 58 deaths in St. Paul or Minneapolis were related to opioids while there were no marijuana-related deaths.
The bill presciently contains stringent language regulating the drug. It severely penalizes state-regulated non-profit organizations — which would be charged with administering the pot — if they let the substance get into the wrong hands. Patients who have registered with the state as a medical marijuana user would be able to obtain 2.5 ounces if that person suffers from a “debilitating medical condition” such as cancer, glaucoma and other explicit conditions.
Murphy proposed similar legislation last year and it passed the Senate but Gov. Tim Pawlenty indicated he would veto. Such a move would disappoint thousands of Minnesotans in pain and can only be viewed as greedy and illogical political maneuvering.
Previously unreported details that came out at the trial included the fact that officer Michael Mansavage first missed Masel and instead peppersprayed his partner John McCaughtry, who was holding Masel by the arm at the time. Apparently, once McCaughtry and Mansavage had wrestled Masel into a face-down position on the ground, with McCaughtry's knee on Masel's back, Mansavage then peppersprayed Masel in the face. Mansavage also threatened to use a Taser on Masel for not putting his arm behind his back to be handcuffed fast enough, when the arm was, in fact, trapped under Masel's body.
The officers' descriptions of their actions made them look totally unprofessional, and strengthened Masel's claims. The multiple times both officers had to be taken through deposition statements that disagreed with their trial testimony didn't help either.
What the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association does
by Greg Francisco
The Michigan Medical Marijuana Association (M3A) was organized as an umbrella group to serve the entire state of Michigan. We are incorporated as a non-profit and aspire to be Michigan’s leading advocate for medical marijuana patients and the community. We provide education, advocacy and open communication to our members, uniting ourselves into one community and one state. But we are not a substitute for local action.
To serve those local communities M3A Compassion Clubs have began meeting in libraries and back rooms around the state. The first meeting of the Lansing Compassion Club met recently at Hydrobiz along Barnes Avenue with plans to continue meeting bi-weekly. A second group expects to begin meeting soon at Gone Wired Caf. And activists from surrounding counties attended the kick-off to learn how to launch Compassion Clubs in their own communities. It only takes a spark.
M3A Compassion Clubs are patient support groups. A place for medical marijuana patients, their caregivers and those who care about them to safely meet and offer mutual support — no different than any other condition-based patient support group. Compassion Clubs are sources of information, emotional support and referrals. Things people do as a community.
M3A Compassion Clubs are neither medical marijuana hook-up sessions nor are they a place to swap seeds or clones. It wouldn’t be appropriate for patients at an HIV/AIDS support group to break out their medications and start swapping around. It’s not appropriate at our meetings either. Transfers of medical marijuana and genetic material are private matters best done in private. By the same token, what members talk about or do in private away from the meeting is none of our business either.
Any recreational marijuana user attending an M3A Compassion Clubs looking to score will be sorely disappointed. Our meetings are open to the public and are often held in public places. The Michigan Medical Marijuana Act prohibits smoking medical marijuana in public and smoking anything — just like tobacco products — is illegal inside public buildings anywhere in Michigan. These are not smoke sessions; they are a place where people who have lived in the shadows for too long can finally come together and openly support each other.
To find out the time, date and location of M3A Compassion Clubs, visit our website at: www.MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org or contact us at: info@MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org
Ben Masel federal peppperspray civil trial begins Monday in Madison
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, January 25, 2009
After a series of delays over recusals and other issues, Ben Masel's now federal civil rights trial against UW-Madison police officer Michael Mansavage "MASEL, BEN v. MANSAVAGE, MIKE", is scheduled to commence tomorrow, Monday, Jan. 26, 2009, at 9:00 AM in Courtroom 260 for Jury Selection and Trial. Location is Madison's federal building, "the Blue Box" at 120 N. Henry Street in downtown Madison. Per Ben, testimony from the officers involved is expected not long after 10 am, with all testimony expected to wrap up Tuesday. He is represented by Jeff Scott Olson, his longtime counsel.
Background:
The original WSJ story: Saturday, July 1, 2006: Police Arrest Masel At UW The Activist Was Collecting Signatures At The Terrace, Which An Official Says Is Against Policy.
Wisconsin State Journal :: LOCAL :: B1 click here
Madison NORML blog posts:
June 29, 2007:Ben Masel sues over June 2006 Union Terrace pepper spraying and arrest: click here
July 1, 2006: Weedstock organizer peppersprayed, arrested: click here
NORML.ORG: New Mexico: Guidelines For State Medical Marijuana Program Finalized
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, January 24, 2009
New Mexico has completed their medical cannabis program rulemaking, and apparently kept an open mind to the medical potential by creating more flexibility in the law.
New Mexico: Guidelines For State Medical Marijuana Program Finalized
Albuquerque, NM: The New Mexico Department of Health has finalized rules governing the production, distribution, and use of medicinal cannabis under state law.
The new guidelines specify that state qualified patients may possess up to six ounces of medical cannabis (or more if authorized by their physician) and/or 16 plants (four mature, 12 immature) in accordance with state law.
To qualify under the law, patients must be registered with the state Department of Health and be must diagnosed by a physician to be suffering from one of the following medical conditions: cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, spinal cord damage, or HIV/AIDS. Any patient in hospice care may also qualify to use medicinal marijuana under state law.
Additional qualifying conditions, including nerve pain, Hepatitis C, and post-traumatic stress syndrome, are awaiting final approval by Department of Health.
State regulations also authorize non-profit facilities to apply with the state to produce and dispense medical cannabis. State licensed producers may grow up to 95 mature plants at one time. The guidelines stipulate, "The non-profit will sell medical cannabis at a consistent unit price and without volume discounts."
To date, no organizations have applied with the state government to cultivate marijuana.
New Mexico lawmakers approved the use of marijuana under a physician’s supervision in 2007. More than 200 patients have since registered with the state Health Department to possess cannabis under state law.
Application information for patients and nonprofit providers is available from the New Mexico Department of Health at:
http://www.health.state.nm.us/marijuana.html
Medical marijuana bill introduced in the Minnesota Senate
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 21, 2008
The Midwest march towards medical cannabis continues with the introduction again, of legislation in Minnesota.
Medical marijuana bill introduced in the Senate
Source: click here
By Andy Birkey 1/20/09 9:00 AM
A bill to allow incurably ill patients to legally purchase marijuana is up for consideration in the Minnesota Senate. The Medical Use of Marijuana bill (SF 97) is nearly identical to a bill that passed the Senate last year and almost passed the House. It enjoys partisan support this year, although last year Gov. Tim Pawlenty indicated he would veto such a bill so long as law enforcement opposed it.
The Medical Use of Marijuana bill would make it legal for patients to procure up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana from a state-regulated nonprofit, only with a physician’s approval and only to those patients who have registered with the state as medical marijuana users. The bill lays down harsh penalties for patients and nonprofits that dispense marijuana to individuals that aren’t qualified by state registration.
Two Republicans are co-authors on this year’s bill. Sens. Geoff Michel of Edina and Debbie Johnson of Ham Lake have signed on to support the bill, as have Sens. Steve Murphy of Red Wing, Linda Higgins of Minneapolis and John Marty of Roseville. A similar bill is expected to be introduced in the House this month and will likely have similar bipartisan support.
Fourteen states allow the medical use of marijuana, from libertarian Alaska and Montana to liberal Vermont and California. If Minnesota passes legislation this year, it would become the second state in the Midwest to do so. Michigan passed a medical marijuana law in 2008.
Public polling in Minnesota shows that legalizing medical marijuana is a popular public policy goal. Last year, a KSTP/SurveyUSA poll showed support from 64 percent of Minnesotans, including 58 percent of Republicans. Minnesotans have favored the legalization of marijuana by more than 60 percent in most public opinion polls over the last 10 years.
Here's a great update on the rule-making for Michigan's new medical cannabis program.
. . . . . .
Source: City Pulse click here
Monday, January 19,2009
Marijuana Journal The rules: first draft
by Greg Francisco
Marijuana Journal is a column tracking the implementation of the state medical marijuana law. The column will be written by Greg Francisco, the executive director of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, and will run weekly in City Pulse and every Monday before publication online.
I wasn't sure what to expect on Jan. 5 when the state Department of Community Health held a public hearing on a set of proposed administrative rules for the state’s new medical marijuana system. I knew that many of the rules either directly conflicted with the law approved by voters, threatened patient privacy, or gave the Department expanded powers beyond those spelled out in the law. But I was neither sure if any of that was going to matter to the powers that be, nor how many others would attend the hearing to make their own concerns known.
I shouldn't have feared. As the executive director of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, it was my job to rally the troops, and rally they did.
At the meeting, 150 chairs were provided and it was almost standing room only. Patients from as far away as Marquette turned out to voice their concerns with the proposed rules.
In addition to the public hearing, the department was taking written comments through 5 p.m., Jan. 10. Late on the afternoon of Jan. 10, I spoke with a department administrator overseeing the rule-making process. She told me that the department had received scores of written comments. The next step would be go through those comments, organize them and then begin to look at revising the rules. Given the strict time lines involved, the department expects to make those revised rules available to the public on or about Jan. 30.
There is no way to know absolutely what the final rules will look like until we actually see them. But based on my conversations with department officials and the comments made at the public hearing, I believe the medical marijuana community has every reason to be optimistic that the revised rules will be much more workable.
I encourage everyone to visit the Web site of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, www.MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org, to learn more about this new law.
Medical cannabis continues to move into the mainstream in New Mexico, where a panel considered and added some new conditions to the state's law and is studying adding others.
Panel considers cannabis for more uses
Last Edited: Thursday, 15 Jan 2009, 12:17 PM MST
Source: KRQE: click here
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Post traumatic stress disorder, nerve pain and Hepatitis C could soon be added to the list of ailments treated by medical marijuana in New Mexico.
On Thursday, petitioners asked a medical group to recommend the use of medical marijuana for several other ailments.
Medical marijuana became legal in New Mexico in July 2007.
There are currently seven qualifying conditions for acceptance to smoke marijuana in the state.
The petitions were heard by an out of state medical group.
So far four of the 17 ailments petitioned Thursday will be placed on a recommendation list that will go to the secretary of health for approval.
Many of the petitioners said that the recommendations are step in the right direction.
"It helps her cope and it gives her relief from pain. And how could we deny that for anyone with something as safe as medical marijuana," medical marijuana supporter Stephen Hunt said.
The panel has tabled some ailments including chronic pain. They said some of the tabled ailments need to be further researched.
The use of medical marijuana to treat depression was denied by the panel.
206 people in New Mexico have been granted medical marijuana licenses since the law took effect in 2007.
Far too often, state and federal courts have granted drug war exemptions that have shredded constitutional protections against illegal searches. Here's that rare case that actualy holds the line and protects these rights.
WAUSAU, Wis. - A state appeals court has overturned a man's drug conviction because police improperly obtained the evidence.
The Third District Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday the strong odor of air freshener and cologne in Richard Lord's car during a routine traffic stop in Washburn County was not reason enough to summon a drug-sniffing dog.
The panel overturned Lord's conviction for possession of marijuana, ruling his constitutional right against illegal searches had been violated.
Court records say Lord was 17 when he was stopped in June 2006 by a state trooper because his vehicle's muffler was too loud. Circuit Judge Eugene Harrington ruled that the strong odors from the scents provided the trooper with reasonable suspicion of drug activity. Court records say the police dog found some marijuana and a drug pipe in the car.
