Recreational Use, Medical Regulations, Come Into Focus At Marijuana Forum

Dr. Kevin Hill

Dr. Kevin Hill

DENNIS PORT – The League of Women Voters held a forum over the weekend addressing the potential legalization of marijuana in Massachusetts and the current policy surrounding medical marijuana, drawing disagreements from some of the speakers over the best policies for Massachusetts.

About 60 people came out to the event at the Cape Cod Community Media Center, titled, “Marijuana: Truths and Fictions.”

The event’s keynote speaker, Dr. Kevin Hill, gave an hour-long presentation on the matter, and said it was crucial for lawmakers to get appropriate policies in place when it comes to marijuana.

“Kids are using marijuana more and more and the perception of risk is declining,” Hill said. “I think this is a call to action. We’ve got to get these policies right. We’ve got to educate people about marijuana.

Hill called for additional regulations on medical marijuana in Massachusetts, saying some are abusing the system and accessing medical approval for the drug when they should not be.

“We shouldn’t give up on medical marijuana regulations and making them stronger. We’ve got it in Massachusetts, maybe we can amend [the regulations] and make them even better. Other states are doing it,” Hill said.

Hill raised concerns about some clinics that are too easily giving out certifications for medical marijuana use, a point that was challenged by Boston attorney Valerio Romano, who focuses his practice on medical marijuana regulations. Romano argued that dispensaries are faced with tough regulations.

Other speakers included State Senator Vinny deMacedo, who was on hand to talk about his recent visit to Colorado, and Gosnold of Cape Cod CEO Ray Tamasi, who addressed his experiences in substance abuse treatment.

Massachusetts voters will be faced with a ballot question later this year that would legalize recreational marijuana use in the state.

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