Political Quotes

“I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chair, 36 States and the District of Columbia have passed laws that provide legal access to medical marijuana in some form, and over 1 million patients now use medical marijuana to treat conditions ranging from seizures, anxiety, chronic pain, nausea associated with chemotherapy, and post-traumatic stress at the recommendation of their physician. Over 213 million people reside in those jurisdictions; yet, according to Directive 2011-004, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits its medical providers from completing forms brought by their patients seeking recommendations or opinions regarding a veteran's participation in a State medical marijuana program. The amendment I am offering ensures that no funds made available to the VA can be used to implement this prohibition. The amendment will not encourage doctors or patients to recommend or use medical marijuana. It would not authorize the possession or use of marijuana at VA facilities. It would simply free up VA providers to have an honest conversation about treatment options and recommend medical marijuana in accordance with State law if they think it is appropriate. It would not force veterans to not work with their primary care provider. I am joined in offering this bipartisan amendment by Congressman Heck from Nevada, Congressman Rohrabacher, and a series of other Members, some of whom you will hear from.…”