News from the State House
Observations and comments about state government by State Representative Robert W. Pritchard.
Medical Marijuana Bill Falls Short in House
The vote fell seven short of allowing use of marijuana for individuals with debilitating medical conditions. While I am no advocate for complete legalization of marijuana, I was impressed by individual stories about its benefits in medical situations.
There is ample anecdotal evidence that medical marijuana can help reduce the symptoms of numerous diseases that are not relieved by conventional medicines. Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders says, “The evidence is overwhelming that marijuana can relieve certain types of pain, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms caused by such illnesses as multiple sclerosis, cancer and AIDS — or by the harsh drugs sometimes used to treat them. Indeed, marijuana is less toxic than many of the drugs that physicians prescribe every day.”
Opposition focused on the process of growing the marijuana plants, the belief that legalizing marijuana use will encourage recreational use and lead to more serious drug addiction, and the lack of state staff to regulate and inspect production areas. Fourteen other states have enacted laws in some form addressing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. SB1381 was placed on the list of bills that could still be recalled for another vote by January 11.
Civil Unions Bill on Governor’s Desk
After years of attempts, a bill to create a new arrangement between same or opposite sex couples passed both chambers of the legislature and awaits only a promised signature by the governor to become law. SB1716 provides all the protections, benefits and responsibilities under the law that are currently granted to a spouse in marriage.
The bill conflicts with the intent of current Illinois law that defines marriage as a rite that should only be bestowed upon a man and a woman. According to the sponsor of the bill, religious organizations will not be forced to solemnize or officiate civil union ceremonies, nor will they be penalized for declining to recognize civil unions. Such groups nevertheless fear the courts will take a different view.
Ambiguities in the soon to be law will be a gold mine for lawyers to litigate. Nevertheless, a very divisive issue is now behind the legislature and hopefully members will work together to balance the budget and find ways to pay bills on time.
District Office 815-748-3494 or E-Mail to bob@pritchardstaterep.com
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