Kansas legislators aren't likely to legalize marijuana for medical uses this year following a vote Thursday. A Senate committee tabled a medical marijuana legalization bill, effectively killing it for the remainder of the legislative session. This comes after several different bills were introduced and debated, with opposition from state law enforcement officials and others.
Possession of marijuana in Kansas has a maximum punishment of six months in jail, or 42 months depending on prior convictions. Despite this, many Kansans continue to use marijuana for medical reasons, and some have even moved to neighboring states where it is legal. Advocates argue that legalization would allow for safe and regulated access to marijuana for those who need it.
Learn:
Kansas lawmakers are still hearing testimony on marijuana legalization, with several different bills in the works. One bill would legalize medical marijuana for patients with qualifying conditions, while another would decriminalize marijuana Possession. Supporters of legalization argue that it would bring in much-needed tax revenue and reduce the burden on law enforcement, while opponents worry about the potential for increased drug abuse and addiction.
What is the state of Kansas missing out on by not legal some form of marijuana? The question comes after voters in Oklahoma rejected a proposal to legalize recreational marijuana, which would have made it the first state in the Midwest to do so. Some experts predict that Kansas could be the next state to legalize marijuana, but only time will tell.
Industry:
Kansas senators have shelved a bill to legalize medical marijuana following a hearing that featured multiple opponents, including state law enforcement officials. Despite this setback, advocates for legalization continue to push for change, citing the potential economic benefits of a regulated marijuana industry.
The road to even partial legalization of marijuana has been a long and rocky one. Last session, the Kansas House approved a medical marijuana bill, but it failed to gain traction in the Senate. This year, lawmakers are once again considering legalization, but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to come to an agreement.
Product Reviews:
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — The Overland Park Police Department says they've seen no increase in tickets or arrests since recreational marijuana was legalize in neighboring Colorado. While Kansas has yet to legalize marijuana for any purpose, some residents are crossing the border to purchase legal marijuana in Colorado. However, the police department says they have not seen any increase in drug-related crimes as a result.
OLATHE, Kan. — As Missouri prepares for legalize recreational marijuana, officials in neighboring Kansas are reminding people cannabis is still illegal in their state. Possession of even a small amount of marijuana in Kansas can result in a fine or even jail time, and many residents are concerned about the potential consequences of using marijuana in a state where it is not yet legal.
