FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) - The North Dakota Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative will be on the November 8th ballot for the upcoming election.
Those in favor say that they are looking forward to a positive outcome on this measure. Opponents, include North Dakota Attorney General, Wayne Stenehjem, disagree.
"Measure 5, medical marijuana is not good medicine, and its bad law," declared Stenehjem. "Supporters also want you to believe marijuana is the only viable option for people who are not receiving adequate pain relief. The truth is FDA-approved medications containing THC, an active ingredient in marijuana, are already available in North Dakota."
The Chairman of the North Dakota Compassionate Care Act, Rilie Morgan, doesn't agree. "It's just a matter of the thousands of North Dakotans that are suffering with different ailments. We need other options other than opioids and other compounds which have serious negative side effects."
Morgan, who is working to get the measure passed, is someone who would benefit from the legalization of medical marijuana.
"I have neuropathy in my feet and I also have a drop foot condition as well too. I am basically in pain 24/7. I am taking some prescription medication but it really hasn't helped all that much," said Morgan.
Measure 5 would allow for qualifying patients to possess up to three ounces of medical marijuana for illnesses such as AIDS, cancer and even epilepsy.
"We have committee members who have children who have epilepsy and the CBDs in medical cannabis has shown to not eliminate but really reduce seizures in children who have epilepsy," explained Morgan.
"Measure 5 will not make North Dakota or its citizens safer or healthier," said Stenehjem.
There are currently 25 states where medical marijuana is legal.