LDS Church Leaders Oppose One of Utah’s Medical Marijuana Bills
Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have come out against one of Utah’s medical marijuana bills, concerned about unintended consequences.
KUTV reports that the bill, sponsored by Sen. Mark Madsen (R-Eagle Mountain), would allow Utah residents to consume edible pot products if suffering from certain medical conditions.
Church spokesman, Eric Hawkins, expressed concern for Madsen’s bill in a statement to the Salt Lake Tribune. He said,
[pull_quote_center]Along with others, we have expressed concern about the unintended consequences that may accompany the legalization of medical marijuana. We have expressed opposition to Senator Madsen’s bill because of that concern. We are raising no objection to the other bill that addresses this issue.[/pull_quote_center]
The other bill Hawkins mentioned is sponsored by Sen. Evan Vickers (R-Cedar City) and Rep. Brad Daw (R-Orem). Tribune speculates that there is no opposition from the Church on this bill as it is more restrictive. The bill would allow patients with qualifying conditions to use oils from the plant that do not contain the psychoactive THC, a chemical that is responsible for most of marijuana’s psychological effects.
It’s expected that both bills will be debated before the Utah senate within the week.
