Mississippi lawmakers passed a controversial resolution critics say is designed to split the vote and kill a medical marijuana initiative on the November ballot. As MPB's Desare Frazier reports the debate grew heated over the issue.
"If you wanted a true medical marijuana program in the state you shouldn't have overreached that way. Gentleman, if you wanted a true medical marijuana program for the state of Mississippi, you should have served on the steering committee 18 months ago when you were asked," said Lamar and Bomgar.
Two lawmakers in the House clash over Initiative 65, a medical marijuana referendum on the November ballot. Republican Joe Bomgar of Madison spearheaded the effort, working on the initiative with organizations. Republican Trey Lamar of Senatobia says the referendum is too lenient --someone could obtain 5 ounces of marijuana in a month's time, the equivalent of 300 joints.
"Is that really what you want to go home and explain to your constituents that we allowed that to happen. When someone over doses because a physician prescribed them up to marijuana 300 joints in one month and they decided they're going to smoke all 300 that there's no liability for that what so ever," said Lamar
Lamar offered a resolution yesterday to limit smoking marijuana to those who are terminally ill--other products would be available to people with serious conditions. He says Initiative 65 doesn't restrict where marijuana shops would be located--his resolution does. Bomgar of Madison says his parent's died from cancer and were in pain.
"They had chemotherapy. They had opioids. They had all of that stuff and they died in extreme pain.
I remember my dad telling me that everyday he woke up and his question for the day was will I be able to stay on top of the pain today," said Bomgar.
The resolution passed 72-49 but is being held for more consideration. If the legislature passes it, the resolution will be on the ballot along with Initiative 65, which could split the vote, killing both proposals.
