Goodin pushes for the legalization of medical cannabis oil

INDIANAPOLIS — During the 2016 session of the Indiana General Assembly, State Rep. Terry Goodin (D-Austin) will push to legalize the use of cannabis oil for medical treatment.

House Bill 1158 will exempt individuals and physicians from criminal penalties for possession or use of cannabis oil if it is being used as a part of an individual’s medical treatment.

“Cannabis oil is an effective method of medical treatment for many people,” said Goodin. “I want to ensure that those who would benefit from the use have legal access.”

The bill would exempt individuals from legal repercussions if they are prescribed the medicine by their physician or are administered the substance as a normal part of their treatment. Physicians would be protected as well, as they transfer, dispense or administer cannabis oil to their patients.

Goodin decided to advocate for this bill because of the effectiveness it has in treating certain illnesses.

“With so many children affected by conditions that cause seizures, I believe it only makes sense to allow this medicine to be available as a treatment option,” said Goodin. “The use of cannabis oil can help those who are unable to experience relief with the use of their current medications.” Indiana has seen problems resulting from the prescribing of powerful opioids and other pain medicines. Goodin also sees House Bill 1158 as a way to combat those problems.

“By giving doctors the latitude to prescribe other, much less powerful drugs, I believe Indiana and its citizens will be better off,” said Goodin.

Goodin supported the legislation during the 2015 session as well, urging lawmakers to legalize the drug in situations where it would provide a medicinal benefit to an individual.

“This bill does not legalize marijuana,” said Goodin. “House Bill 1158 simply makes it possible for physicians to prescribe the oil, taken from hemp and marijuana plants, to patients who could benefit from its use.”

Cannabis oil is currently available in several states and provides significant relief from several serious medical conditions including epilepsy in young children.

“There are children in Indiana who are in need of cannabis oil for medical purposes,” said Goodin. “It’s time we made progress with this issue. This bill will ensure that residents of Indiana, who are in need of this substance, can live a healthier life.”