Louisiana First Responders Renew Call for Medical Cannabis Access

First responders in Louisiana are speaking out ahead of a legislative push for cementing their right to access the state’s medical cannabis program, WAFB reports. It is the second attempt in as many years by state Rep. Mandie Landry, a Democrat from New Orleans, to codify the rights of first responders to access the program.

Alex Tony, a former Army medic and current firefighter, called on officials in Louisiana’s Medical Marijuana Task Force to expand medical freedoms for first responders:

“I think that we should be able to make that choice without repercussions. Because I work in a field where psychological issues such as PTSD are not only commonplace but they’re actually presumptive. Meaning at some point in my career I will see something, be involved with something, do something that I will be mentally and emotionally accountable for…for the rest of my life.” — Tony, in a statement

While last year’s bill failed, Rep. Landry said she is willing to renew efforts this year despite each lawmaker being limited to just five legislative proposals this year on account of it being a fiscal year in Louisiana, according to the report.

“I mean we’re always going to try to expand it and clarify issues in the next session,” Landry said. “And I think this group, it’s such a diverse group, they’ve been working really hard. I think they’re going to come up with some good practical suggestions.”