12 medical marijuana bills discussed at state house

AUGUSTA (WGME) -- There were 12 medical marijuana bills discussed at the state house Monday. The bill drawing a lot of attention involves liquid or smokeless medical marijuana in hospitals.

The bill's co-sponsor, Representative Diane Russell of Portland, says it is a big deal to her constituents. “Moms approached me and talked to me about the challenges they're having, how horrifying it is and what kind of a Sophie’s Choice is it to watch your child going through a seizure knowing that something will change that seizure and end it,” Russell said.

The outside group, Legalize Maine, agrees with Russell. “When these children get hospitalized they need to have access to these lifesaving medications and that medication use needs to be listed on their chart for their safety and to make sure the hospital can provide the best care possible,” Paul McCarrier, president, Legalize Maine, said.

But the plan faces opposition. Hospitals worry their federal license to distribute certain medications could be at risk because marijuana is still considered illegal under federal law.

As marijuana becomes more “mainstream,” some say it's time for tighter oversight of growers and suppliers. “I think DHHS should have the right to inspect. However, we have to remember these are growing plants and if they come in willy-nilly the can contaminate the growing space,” Senator Tom Saviello said.

There are mixed opinions on how the state should do the inspections and keep that information private. “I do think some version of inspections needs to happen to make sure folks are operating within the bounds of the law but I do not believe the DHHS committee has done a good job in rolling out an inspection system,” Russell said.

McCarrier added: “Caregivers aren't opposed to having any kind of inspections as long as they are treated like small businesses. Caregivers need to be able to serve patients and patients need to be able to have their choice of provider.”

Senator Saviello is concerned that marijuana could one day be completely legal and he wants an inspection system in place before then.