Michael Steele: Congress must lead on cannabis reform and stand with the American public

By Michael Steele - Opinion Contributor

I was dismayed to see Attorney General Jeff Sessions (AG) recently rescind the Cole Memo, a United States Department of Justice (DOJ) document providing guidelines to United States attorneys in states that have chosen to legalize cannabis. This memo provided protection to states whose voters and duly elected legislatures have legalized some form of marijuana use.

While I may not be in favor unfettered adult use for individuals over 21 years of age, I am a strong supporter of medical marijuana. Numerous friends and acquaintances benefit from the medicinal properties and pain relief provided by cannabis. I favor state-based access to medical marijuana from both a philosophical and policy standpoint. I also support the reform of our federal cannabis laws to bring conformity to federal regulations and state laws.

The public's attitude regarding cannabis is evolving. In April 2017, a Quinnipiac poll found that 94 percent of Americans favor, "allowing adults to legally use marijuana for medical purposes if their doctor prescribes it."

To read more: http://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/379937-michael-steele-congress-must-lead-on-cannabis-reform-and-stand-with-the?amp