Louisiana House Bill HR189

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/4/17
• Passed: 6/7/17

Caption

Urges and requests certain state universities to pursue opportunities for research on the safety and clinical efficacy of therapeutic marijuana

Impact

The resolution aligns with previous legislation, such as Act No. 96 from the 2016 Regular Session, which allows therapeutic marijuana access for patients with specific debilitating conditions. HR189 could significantly enhance the body of research available to inform both clinical practices and regulatory policies relating to marijuana use, thus impacting treatment protocols for vulnerable patient populations covered under the law.

Summary

House Resolution 189 (HR189) urges and requests several Louisiana State Universities, including Health Sciences Centers at New Orleans and Shreveport, as well as the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, to explore research opportunities focused on the safety and clinical efficacy of marijuana for therapeutic uses. This bill reflects a growing recognition of the need for sound scientific evidence regarding the medicinal benefits of marijuana, especially given the legal changes surrounding cannabis use across various states.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR189 appears to be positive, emphasizing the necessity for thorough research to ensure patient safety and efficacy. Supporters of the resolution believe that a scientific approach can bolster confidence in the use of therapeutic marijuana and assist healthcare providers in making informed decisions. The bill reflects a growing consensus on the importance of understanding the therapeutic potential of marijuana in treating various conditions.

Contention

While there may not be strong opposition evident from legislative discussions or voting records, the contention could arise from differing views on marijuana use for therapeutic purposes. Some stakeholders may emphasize the need for rigorous testing and regulation, while others might advocate for broader accessibility of marijuana treatments. Furthermore, as research develops, new findings could spark debates about the scope of conditions warranting marijuana use in therapy.