Oregon Governor Signs SB 281 Allowing PTSD Sufferers to use Cannabis

As of Jan 1, 2014, veterans and others with PTSD, will be able to get their OMMP cards.

(Salem) - Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber showed his support of Veterans and others suffering from PTSD when he signed Senate Bill 281 on Thursday, allowing the legal medical use of Cannabis (marijuana).

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was added to the list of "debilitating medical conditions" as defined by Oregon statute with the Governor's signature.

It will take until January 1, 2014 for the law to take effect, and it can't be soon enough for those who have been waiting years. Thousands of Oregonians suffer 24/7 from the many symptoms of PTSD. Far too many "self-medicate" using alcohol or an over-abundance of prescription medications, just to alleviate the many times very disabling symptoms.

The facts support Cannabis as a healthier choice for those suffering than most other alternatives.

The bill was introduced in January, sponsored by Senator Boquist at the request of Todd Dalotto. It passed the Oregon Senate on April 18, 19-11. It passed the Oregon House on May 30, 36-21. The Governor signed it on June 6, 2013.

Every individual deserves to live their life as freely, and painlessly, as possible. This addition to the OMMP conditions is a huge step in that direction, and a very strong message from the Governor's office that where Veterans are concerned, he can walk the walk.

This law will benefit all Oregonians, and stand as an example for other states as they participate in the new age of rational decisions concerning Cannabis.

Bonnie King has been Publisher of Salem-News.com since August '04. She is a photographer and video producer, writer, editor and mother, which she considers her greatest position. Bonnie has served in a number of positions in the broadcast industry; TV Production Manager at KVWB (Las Vegas WB) and Producer/Director for the TV series "Hot Wheels in Las Vegas", posts as TV Promotion Director for KYMA (NBC), and KFBT (Ind.), Asst. Marketing Director (SUPERSHOPPER MAGAZINE), Director/Co-Host (Coast Entertainment Show), Radio Promotion Director (KBCH/KCRF), and Newspapers In Education/Circulation Sales Manager (STATESMAN JOURNAL NEWSPAPER).

Bonnie has a depth of understanding that reaches further than just behind the scenes, and that thoroughness is demonstrated in the perseverance to correctly present each story with the wit and wisdom necessary to compel and captivate viewers and readers alike. An lifetime activist for just causes, she continues to strive to present facts that support Truth, Justice and Peace, as we are in the world to change the world for the better. "TJP"

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pinkfloyd June 8, 2013 10:04 am (Pacific time)

Since this governor could not care less about veterans, or even the public he serves, nor public pressure, and only adheres to what his bosses want (ie: the gov. was losing the vote big time, but after a visit by obama, and the gov's promise to do anything obama tells him, the voting stats "suddenly changed")..be leary. I dont know how many vets will take advantage of this new legislation (I think marijuana is great for PTSD), but if you do, pay close attention to the questions the doctors ask you. ie: do you own firearms. I think this thing is a setup to track veterans personal lives and control you by the answers you give the doctors. I personally do not think PTSD people smoking marijuana are a danger or a threat. I think people taking SSRI's are tho. Dont answer the doctors personal questions, and most important document the questions and email them to Bonnie or Tim. I have a feeling that if there are enough vets out there that take advantage of this new legislation, and contact Bonnie or Tim about the above concerns, , this might give Bonnie and Tim another article to write.

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