The discussion of legalizing marijuana, if only for medical purposes, is moving forward here in Iowa. 

On April 1, Gov. Terry Branstad met with parents of children who suffer from seizures that can be aided with the use of medical marijuana to hear their concerns. Though it is an encouraging sign to see Branstad willing to take time to listen to these parents and consider the use of marijuana as a medical aid for their children, the process is moving far too slowly.

According to an article from The Des Moines Register, Branstad “indicated a willingness to help if [the families’] proposal does not increase overall drug abuse in Iowa.” The parents are asking for a liquid dosage of the currently illegal drug cannabidiol, which is not psychoactive — in other words, you can’t get high off of it — and would require a doctor’s permission to obtain it.

Reducing the number of Iowans abusing illicit or prescription drugs is an important objective, but the governor’s halted response goes too far. To prevent what appears to be a wholly legitimate use of marijuana products because it could possibly increase overall drug abuse in Iowa is flawed.

There are currently 20 states that have already legalized the use of medical marijuana, and two states — Colorado and Washington — have completely legalized marijuana. This means that Gov. Brandstad should have no issue assessing how such laws have affected those states and keep moving forward on legalizing something that could make a world of difference for some individuals with medical needs.

Understanding the full impact of making medical marijuana legal is logical, but the slowness by which it is being done after so many other states have moved forward with the issue seems to just be balking for no real reason. Not only this, but there are also numerous drugs that are frequently used for medical purposes, such as codeine and oxycodone, that are also abused. There is always a chance that any type of drug, whether illegal or prescribed, will be abused.

Looking at some of the states that already have medical marijuana programs, such as California or Colorado before its vote for full legalization, there have been concerns that it can sometimes be too easy to obtain the drug. There is no need for Iowa to repeat the mistakes of others, however. If we can see that other programs are susceptible to fraud, Iowa could simply set up a program with more fail-safes and stricter prescription guidelines.

The governor is stalling to make an important decision that could better the lives of many individuals affected by seizures and other ailments. Waiting to make this decision has a direct impact on the lives and health of others. Branstad, along with lawmakers in the state of Iowa, has the opportunity to improve the lives of many of his constituents. Yes, there are risks, but many decisions made by lawmakers have the potential for adverse effects. 

This issue has been stalled for far too long in the state of Iowa, and it doesn’t even hit on legalizing marijuana as a whole. These parents are asking for a very narrow use of the drug to find relief for their children. It’s encouraging that Branstad is willing to listen but disappointing that he doesn’t seem overly compelled to act.