Thompson endorses Boyle/Pocan medical marijuana bill
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THOMPSON ENDORSES BOYLE/POCAN MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL 12/11/2001. Speaking with reporters in Madison today, gubernatorial candidate Ed Thompson gave his preliminary endorsement to a medical marijuana bill being submitted by state representatives Frank Boyle and Mark Pocan. "Politicians should not interfere with the choices made by people who are sick and suffering and their health care providers," said Thompson. Thompson pointed out that in every one of the eight states from Maine to California where this issued was placed in front of voters it was approved. "Wisconsin legislators have not shown their trust in the people by giving them initiative and referendum rights," said Thompson, adding, "when the people are allowed to speak, they support the rights of people to make their own medical decisions and the Wisconsin legislature should obey the will of the people." Thompson was particularly critical of Republicans on this issue! , "You hear Republican politicians whining about getting government off our backs, but when it comes to the important, private issue of seeking the best possible remedies for people who are the weakest in our society they are hypocrites. Think about those who are suffering from AIDS wasting syndrome or the pain of chemotherapy treatments, and the Governor's party is heartless, interfering like any other big-government advocate. That's just plain wrong." Thompson said that he reserved full endorsement of the specific measure introduced by Representatives Boyle and Pocan today until he could read the complete text of the legislation. "I support the intention of their bill, the intention to give people the freedom to consult with their own health care provider and choose the therapies that are best for their individual needs. But I have to read the fine print when the bill is made public to make sure that, in giving his freedom back to the people, there are safeguards in place so doctors and suffering patients will not be made potential targets for federal harassment or prosecution." For more information you can contact the Thompson campaign headquarters in Tomah at (608) 374-2675 or visit the campaign website at www.EdThompson.com. |
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