John Hanger's statement on Senate passage of medical marijuana bil

John Hanger today said that Senate passage of the bill making medical marijuana available to those suffering from illness treatable with marijuana is a landmark in Pennsylvania history for compassion and common sense. Hanger had been a strong, effective champion of legalizing marijuana when he was a candidate for governor during the primary.

“I want to thank the members of the Pennsylvania Senate for their votes to make medical marijuana available to those who need it,” said Hanger. “And I especially want to thank the tireless advocates, whose stories and struggles finally have been heard and validated by this historic vote.”

“Now the bill moves to the House of Representatives which has plenty of time to pass this bill,” continued Hanger. “Voters should contact their representative and let them know that the vote on this bill will determine whether or not they vote to re-elect them in November. Voters should also ask all candidates for the state House if they support this bill.”

“The House Republican leadership now faces a choice,” said Hanger. “Either bring the medical marijuana bill up for a vote before the election, or prolong the suffering of the individuals and families that need this medicine. I sincerely hope and urge Representative Michael Turzai and Representative Sam Smith to do the right thing.”