Pubdate: Fri, 06 May 2016 Source: Nelson Mail, The (New Zealand) Copyright: 2016 Fairfax New Zealand Limited Contact: http://www.nelsonmail.co.nz/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1069 Author: Steven Wilkinson GROWING SUPPORT On May 2, TV3's Story ran a poll asking "should medicinal cannabis be legal in NZ?" , which returned a 97 per cent "yes" response. So what's the hold up? California has had medicinal cannabis for 20 years, without any negative outcomes. Twenty-four out of 52 states have legalised medicinal cannabis, and considering that the US was the sole driver in prohibiting cannabis. Quality isn't the problem, because as soon as you regulate the market (taking it away from gangs) you have quality product. Overdosing isn't an issue, as no one in the history of cannabis use has ever died from it.Our style of governance is a democracy, which means the will of the people is taken into account. But is it? When politicians were asked about law change, most responded with their own personal belief. Cannabis has so many benefits that it shouldn't be left as a "last resort" medicine. More than just the terminally ill can benefit from this amazing plant. Please push for the model currently used in America. Steven Wilkinson Takaka, May 2 - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom