Sgt. A.W. Farmer and
Capt. Mike McKelvey
Iowa Peace Officers
Association
There has been much discussion in recent years surrounding the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana, either for medical or recreational purposes. Nationally, 23 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws permitting the use of medical marijuana. Other states, such as Colorado and Washington, go even further by permitting marijuana use recreationally. In Iowa, the legislature approved a very limited bill that would allow for the use of a marijuana derivative for Iowans with severe forms of epilepsy.
Marijuana today is much more potent than 20 and 30 years ago and is addictive. Nearly 4.5 million American meet the clinical criteria for marijuana abuse and dependence. In Iowa, the percentage of persons entering substance abuse treatment primarily due to marijuana is at its highest point in 20 years - over 26 percent. Most importantly, marijuana is illegal under federal law. Creating a patchwork of state laws that attempt to “legalize” a drug that is prohibited under federal law creates confusion and jeopardizes the safety of all Iowans.
Recognizing the danger of legalization, State Rep. Dan Kelley has consistently opposed efforts to increase access to marijuana. He understands the harmful effects of drug use and has raised concerns about the mixed messages that marijuana legalization would send to Iowa children. Rep. Kelley has also supported continued funding for the Office of Drug Control Policy to help combat not only marijuana abuse, but also the increasing use of methamphetamine and heroin in Iowa.