El Paso State Rep Backs Medical Marijuana Bill

Medical marijuana could be an option for patients with cancer and other serious ailments in Texas.

El Paso democrat Marisa Marquez, representative for District 77, introduced a bill in the state House Friday that would allow it.

ABC-7 spoke by phone with Marquez about why she is behind the bill.

She said among the reasons was the story of a man she met who is living with muscular dystrophy. The man, who is wheelchair-bound, was able to get off heavy painkillers once he began using medical marijuana, according to Marquez.

“He really does know what works best for him,” she said. “He believes he and his doctor should make decisions about his treatment.”

Medical marijuana advocates gathered with supporters in the state legislature Tuesday afternoon during a news conference centered around the bill.

They focused on the importance of the legislation and who would stand to benefit if it passes.

Marquez told ABC-7 that the bill would heavily regulate medical marijuana’s use and distribution.

She added that the 40 page bill outlines which illnesses qualify — including cancer and post traumatic stress disorder — and where dispensaries can be located.

Marquez also said the regulation of medical marijuana would fall under the state’s Department of Health and Human Services, if passed.

As for its chances of passing, Marquez said she’s seeing a lot of bipartisan support.

“We all talk about access to healthcare and quality care and options. This is a great thing for Texans to be able to control their treatment, be a part of the process, and have the freedom to choose what best suits their medical needs,” she added.

Marquez said Senator Jose Menendez, (D) Bexar County, filed the exact same bill in the Senate.

If the bill passes it could go into effect as early as Sept. 1, 2015.