SHANE Rattenbury says submissions close this Friday (13 February) for the ACT Legislative Assembly inquiry into the use of cannabis for medical purposes.
Shane introduced draft legislation into the Assembly last year which would give those suffering from certain chronic and terminal illnesses access to cannabis as a treatment. The draft legislation and discussion paper were sent to committee, which is due to report back in June this year.
“The public discourse has grown substantially over recent months, but there remains no progress on policy. The public understands the need and the importance of granting access to those suffering and in pain and our laws need to adapt,” Shane said.
“There is a clear urgency for progress on this issue and the political debate is unfortunately taking longer than people should have to wait; we need to legislate now.
“This legislation is about compassion and about helping the members of our community who are suffering. It is our responsibility as community leaders and law makers to help them.
“I am hopeful that the committee members and my Assembly colleagues move swiftly on this issue to enact positive change in the near future and keep up with the needs of the community.
“I encourage anyone interested in the issue to contribute submissions to the Committee before the closing date this Friday.
To make a submission visit: www.parliament.act.gov.au
The Standing Committee on Health, Ageing, Community and Social Services inquiry into the Exposure Draft of the Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis Use for Medical Purposes) Amendment Bill 2014 is required to report back to the Assembly by the last sitting day in June 2015.
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