Veterans may be key in the push to legalize marijuana, as despite a boost in popularity it remains illegal in nearly half of states.
Marijuana has enjoyed a surge in popularity lately, but its support seems to have stalled, and veterans may be the key to pushing the movement further. New York Gov. Andrew Cuoma announced recently he would sign legislation that would make therapeutic pot acceptable for treatment for veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, and this argument could provide a new way forward for marijuana advocates.
Marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and therefore there isn’t extensive medical research into its impact on PTSD sufferers. Currently, it’s been legalized as a form of PTSD treatment in 28 states as well as the District of Columbia. Alaska doens’t incorporate PTSD into its marijuana program but people can buy pot legally there.
Veterans groups are pushing for growing acceptance of marijuana. Veterans say that pot can help them avoid having to take loads of medications, including potentially much more harmful opioids, to handle their PTSD symptoms.
Daniel J. Brown
Daniel J. Brown (Editor-in-Chief) is a recently retired data analyst who gets a kick out of reading and writing the news. He enjoys good music, great food, and sports, with a slant towards Southern college football, basketball and professional baseball.