By now, many of you have had a chance to view Senator Jeff Brandes SB528. Here are a few things to consider, from the perspective of someone who has actually been trying to pass medical marijuana legislation for the past 5 years: 1. Thanks to Sen. Brandes for stepping up on this issue in a way that many of our colleagues have not had the wherewithal to do. I dont think you should underestimate what a large step forward it is for Republican Senator to be filing this bill in Tallahassee. The negative reaction Ive seen from folks on this page is normal, but take a step back and understand how truly unique this moment is. 2. Going into my fifth Legislative Session in Tallahassee, I can tell you it is a process. Bills of this nature NEVER go through the committee process and to the floor for approval without amendments and changes along the way. It takes 21 Senators to pass. There is also consultation with the House (where 61 members must vote Yes), and the Governors office to see what kind of legislation the governor would actually sign and not veto. In other words, the bill will NOT look the same as it does today. That could be better or worse, but its something you should be aware of. Advocate for improvements to the bill, and understand, you simply arent going to get everything you want. Its a negotiation process. 3. This IS the bill that has a chance of passing this year. Its likely to be the only bill related to medical marijuana that moves through the process. So if it dies, there will be no replacement. And people will have to wait another 12-24 months for relief. Weigh your strong opinions and concerns about the bill with this reality. 4. Because this is a change to Statute, and not the Constitution, any wording can be changed in future years. Illnesses can be added, rules can be changed, access can be expanded and policy can be improved. With Legislation of this nature, it is never simply a case of passing the bill and then forgetting about it. The opportunities for building upon any given bill in subsequent years is numerous. There is a common saying in the Legislature that applies to this bill in more ways than one: Dont let the perfect become the enemy of the good. In other words, there is no perfect bill. Lets figure out what we can actually get accomplished. Thanks for your advocacy!
Posted on: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 15:56:35 +0000
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