Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition of H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act. As a practicing physician for over 30 years, this bill deeply troubles me, especially with its researched implications for our youth population. Marijuana is one of the most abused substances on this planet. And I will say, I am sympathetic to those who use marijuana for pain relief; I really am. It has been clinically proven to have activity in this area. That said: A July 2020 study from the National Library of Medicine concluded that the THC component of cannabis can be the main culprit in psychosis and schizophrenia. A 2018 study from Duke University, in fact, showed a five-time increase in psychosis among chronic cannabis users. The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams, agreed that there are serious health risks associated with the use of marijuana in adolescence and in pregnancy. The bill fails to set any standards to prevent marijuana, THC concentrates, vaping products, or edibles from getting into the hands of teenagers and young adults whose brains are still developing. The MORE Act doesn't help prevent the distribution of marijuana to minors. It disrespects States' rights, fails to prevent violence and the use of firearms in growing and distributing marijuana and, lastly, it allows for the potential of marijuana revenue to fund criminal organizations, gangs, or cartels.…”